If you adore the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but are looking to simplify your morning routine or impress a crowd effortlessly, this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is a total game changer. Imagine buttery, soft chunks of cinnamon roll baked in a creamy, spiced custard, all drizzled with luscious icing and, if you like, a touch of maple syrup for that perfect glaze of sweetness. It’s the ultimate cozy breakfast or brunch treat that tastes like a special occasion but comes together in less time than you’d expect. This dish wraps up everything you love about cinnamon rolls into a warm, golden casserole that’s both easy to serve and absolutely addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential to build the delightful layers of flavor and texture that make this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe so irresistible. Each brings a unique element, from rich creaminess to warm spices that fill your kitchen with that classic cinnamon aroma.
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing): The star of the dish, ready-made to save time while providing that trademark soft, sweet dough and cinnamon swirl.
- 4 large eggs: They create the custard base, binding everything together with a silky texture.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess and lightness to the custard.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: A touch of indulgence to make the casserole extra rich and luscious.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth, complementing the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Amplifies the cinnamon flavor, enhancing that signature sweet-spicy note.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional): Adds subtle aromatic complexity without overpowering.
- Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing): Keeps the casserole from sticking and adds a hint of buttery flavor at the edges.
- Maple syrup for drizzling (optional): An extra layer of natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Cinnamon Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a generous 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray—this ensures your casserole slides out beautifully after baking. Next, open the canned cinnamon rolls and cut each one into quarters. This bite-sized approach helps the rolls soak up the custard and bake evenly, creating perfect pockets of cinnamon goodness throughout the casserole.
Step 2: Arrange the Cinnamon Roll Pieces
Spread those quartered cinnamon roll pieces evenly across the bottom of your prepared dish. Don’t worry about making it perfect—the rustic distribution allows the egg mixture to absorb and blend with the dough for a soft, custardy texture that holds every delicious bite together like a hug in a dish.
Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard is the magic that transforms simple cinnamon rolls into a rich, custardy casserole experience bursting with flavor and creamy texture.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour that beautiful custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. The pieces will soak it up gently but fully during baking. Slide the casserole into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until it’s a gorgeous golden brown on top and fully set in the center. It should look slightly puffed and smell absolutely irresistible.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Once out of the oven, let your casserole cool just a little but not too long—you want that warmth to melt the icing smoothly. Warm the icing packet that came with the cinnamon rolls and drizzle it generously over the top. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a drizzle of maple syrup for that perfect finishing sweetness. Then get ready to serve!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple or elevate your casserole with some garnishes that add texture and bursts of flavor. Chopped toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkle on top beautifully for crunch, or freshly sliced strawberries can provide a juicy contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar also brightens the presentation and adds that final sweet touch.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a centerpiece, but pairing it with savory sides balances out the sweetness wonderfully. Crispy bacon or sausage links add a salty, savory contrast, while a fresh fruit salad keeps things light and refreshing alongside this rich dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a cozy family-style feel, or scoop portions onto colorful plates with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a brunch-to-dessert crossover twist. For a festive touch, add cinnamon sticks or a sprinkle of cinnamon powder on the plates for garnish and aroma.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When covered well, it maintains its soft, custardy texture without drying out, making it perfect for a convenient next-day breakfast or snack.
Freezing
This casserole freezes really well. Wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave for about 30 to 60 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until heated through. To keep the icing soft, you can drizzle a little more after reheating just like when it was freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I make this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe the night before?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, add 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it cooks through perfectly.
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?
Yes, homemade cinnamon rolls work beautifully if you want to make everything from scratch. Just cut them into quarters and follow the same process—baking times might vary slightly depending on the thickness of your rolls.
Is it necessary to add nutmeg?
Nutmeg is optional but it gives a subtle warmth that complements cinnamon beautifully. If you don’t have it on hand or prefer a simpler spice profile, just skip it without losing any of the casserole’s charm.
How sweet is this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe?
It strikes a lovely balance of sweetness from the cinnamon rolls and icing, with richness from the custard, and optional maple syrup adds an extra sweet touch if you like. You can adjust sweetness by adding less maple syrup or choosing cinnamon rolls with less icing.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute the milk and heavy cream with your favorite plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free butter spray. The texture and flavor will still be wonderfully comforting and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is truly a heartwarming way to bring a little magic to your breakfast or brunch table. Its ease, rich flavor, and inviting aroma make it perfect for weekend mornings, holidays, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones. Once you try this cozy casserole, it will quickly become your go-to for effortless, unforgettable cinnamon roll goodness. So go ahead, give it a whirl—you’re going to love every bite!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and indulgent Cinnamon Roll Casserole that’s perfect for holiday mornings or a special brunch. Made with refrigerated cinnamon rolls soaked in a creamy egg mixture, baked to golden perfection, and drizzled with sweet icing and optional maple syrup for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Other
- Butter or nonstick spray (for greasing)
- Maple syrup for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cut Cinnamon Rolls: Open the refrigerated cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Spread the cut pieces evenly across the prepared baking dish.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the center is set.
- Cool and Top: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Warm the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls and drizzle it generously over the top. For extra sweetness, add a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
- Serve: Cut into squares and serve warm for a delicious, cozy breakfast or brunch treat.
Notes
- Great for holiday mornings or brunch gatherings.
- Can be prepared the night before and refrigerated; if doing so, add 5–10 minutes to the baking time.
- Try topping with chopped pecans or a cream cheese glaze for additional richness and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
