Save to Pinterest This decadent Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is the breakfast I turn to when I want something indulgent yet effortless. Whether it is Christmas morning or just a lazy Sunday, this recipe lets you serve all the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with a fraction of the work. Each bite tastes like a warm hug with gooey cinnamon richness and soft, custardy bread.
I first fell in love with this dish after making it for an impromptu brunch. My friends still talk about how it disappeared before the coffee finished brewing.
Ingredients
- Brioche bread thick sliced and slightly stale: This bread soaks up the custard and gives a rich texture Try to find a loaf that is firm and slightly dry
- Cinnamon brown sugar mix: Adds those signature warm spices For maximum flavor use freshly ground cinnamon if possible
- Eggs: Provide structure and creaminess in the custard Choose fresh large eggs for the best rise
- Whole milk: Gives richness without making the dish too heavy If you want a richer texture use half and half
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the casserole with classic warmth Always use pure vanilla for best taste
- Cream cheese: Makes the topping decadent and creamy Pick block style cream cheese for easy blending
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the icing and melts into the casserole Avoid granulated sugar here so your drizzle is smooth
- Butter: Adds flavor and helps caramelize the cinnamon sugar topping Use unsalted and melt it gently for even spreading
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Cut thick slices of brioche into cubes about one inch wide Let these sit out uncovered for an hour or toast lightly to dry They should feel a bit firm so they soak up custard without falling apart
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar:
- Combine cinnamon with brown sugar in a bowl Rub together using clean fingers to break up any lumps This makes sure your casserole has cinnamon flavor in every bite
- Mix the Custard:
- Crack eggs into a large mixing bowl Add whole milk and vanilla extract Whisk thoroughly until mixture is completely smooth with no streaks of egg white left
- Layer the Casserole:
- Lightly grease a deep casserole dish Scatter half the bread cubes in the bottom Sprinkle generously with half the cinnamon sugar mixture Pour half the custard evenly over the layer Repeat with remaining bread cinnamon sugar and custard Press gently to submerge the bread
- Soak the Casserole:
- Let the assembled casserole sit for at least half an hour or cover and refrigerate overnight This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully creating a creamy interior
- Bake Until Golden:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit Place the casserole dish on the center rack Bake uncovered for about forty to forty five minutes until the edges look set and the top is deeply golden If it browns too fast tent loosely with foil for the last ten minutes
- Make the Cream Cheese Drizzle:
- Beat softened cream cheese with melted butter and powdered sugar Add a splash of vanilla and stir until smooth Add milk a spoonful at a time until the icing is pourable yet thick
- Finish and Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly Drizzle with cream cheese icing and sprinkle with extra cinnamon Serve warm for the ultimate cozy breakfast
Save to Pinterest I adore the way the cream cheese icing pools into every groove I will never forget the first time my niece helped make this and declared it tasted better than any bakery cinnamon roll
Storage Tips
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to three days The casserole reheats beautifully either in the oven or briefly in the microwave If you want to freeze it slice into portions wrap tightly and store up to one month Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
Challah or Texas toast can replace brioche if you want something even heartier For a dairy free version use almond milk and a plant based cream cheese You can also experiment with gluten free bread but choose one that is sturdy and lightly toasted
Serving Suggestions
This casserole stands on its own but try adding a handful of berries on top for color and brightness Crumbled toasted pecans add crunch on special occasions A dusting of freshly grated nutmeg over the icing gives extra warmth
Save to Pinterest For a show stopping breakfast that tastes like a bakery treat but comes together effortlessly, this casserole will become a family favorite. Enjoy warm and make your morning extra special.
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I prevent a soggy casserole?
Use day-old or slightly dried cinnamon rolls to absorb the custard. Allow enough baking time for a set center.
- → Can I prepare it the night before?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning until golden and cooked through.
- → What type of bread works best?
Classic cinnamon rolls are ideal, but brioche or challah add richness if cinnamon rolls aren’t available.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven.
- → Is it possible to make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free cinnamon rolls for a similar comforting effect.