If you adore the comforting swirl of cinnamon rolls and the golden, custardy delight of French toast, then you are in for a real treat with this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe. This indulgent dish combines the best of both worlds—soft, gooey cinnamon rolls soaked in a rich, vanilla-spiced custard, baked to perfection, and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or any time you want to feel like you’re dining in a cozy café without leaving home. Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the soft cinnamon rolls that bake into a fluffy base, to the creamy custard that adds richness and moisture, and the glaze that gives it that signature sweet finish. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (17.5 oz each): The foundation of the casserole, providing sweet, spiced dough and that irresistible icing drizzle to finish.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs bind and create the custard that turns the casserole into a heavenly French toast texture.
- 0.5 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and a creamy mouthfeel to the custard mix.
- 0.25 cup milk: Lightens the custard blend to just the right consistency for soaking the cinnamon rolls.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Enhances the warm spice flavor already in the rolls, making every bite fragrant and cozy.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Lifts and deepens the overall flavor with sweet, aromatic notes.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a slight depth that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened: The base for the irresistible glaze, bringing tangy creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds richness to the glaze and helps create that silky finish.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the glaze, ensuring every bite ends on a perfect sugary note.
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (for thinning glaze): Adjust the glaze consistency for an easy drizzle over the casserole.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Take each cinnamon roll and cut it into quarters, then evenly spread these pieces across the bottom of your baking dish. This arrangement creates a beautiful mosaic of cinnamon goodness that will soak up the custard perfectly.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until smooth and well combined. This custard is the magic that transforms your cinnamon rolls into French toast casserole—rich, spiced, and ready to soak into every nook and cranny.
Step 3: Pour Custard and Press Gently
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down on the pieces with a spatula or your hands to help them absorb the custard and become delectably tender while baking.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Puffy
Place the baking dish into the oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole has puffed up and the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. The smell during this time will be heavenly! Once baked, allow the casserole to cool slightly for the best texture.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the casserole cools, whisk together softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and milk in a medium bowl until the mixture is smooth and drizzle-friendly. Adjust the milk to get the glaze consistency just right—it should flow easily but still hold some body.
Step 6: Drizzle Glaze and Add Icing
Drizzle this luscious cream cheese glaze generously over the warm casserole, allowing it to melt slightly into the crevices. For an extra indulgent touch, spoon the reserved icing from the cinnamon roll cans over the top, and if you like, a little extra maple syrup adds a glossy, flavorful finish.
Step 7: Slice and Serve Warm
Finally, slice the casserole into squares and serve warm to enjoy the melty custard texture and sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness. It’s practically impossible to stop at just one piece!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the flavor and presentation, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch. Fresh berries such as strawberries or blueberries add a burst of brightness and a pop of color. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the glaze can give that bakery-fresh look, making your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe even more inviting.
Side Dishes
This casserole is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with light, refreshing sides works beautifully. A crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette or simple fresh fruit salad complements the sweet, creamy casserole perfectly. For a savory contrast, crispy bacon or breakfast sausage are excellent options to balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can turn serving this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe into a showstopper. Try layering it in clear glass baking dishes or individual ramekins for personal servings. For brunch gatherings, top each portion with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce to wow your guests. Using colorful serving platters and fresh herb sprigs like mint can add freshness and flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole holds its flavor well but is best enjoyed when reheated gently to preserve that soft, custardy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked casserole for up to 1 month. Prepare the casserole as directed, but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. This makes it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy mornings or special occasions.
Reheating
Reheat leftover portions in a microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until warm, or pop them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to keep the edges crisp while warming through. Avoid overheating to maintain the creamy custard texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned ones?
Absolutely! Fresh or homemade cinnamon rolls will work wonderfully in this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe. Just be sure they are slightly firm to the touch so they absorb the custard without becoming mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy milk and heavy cream with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the glaze. The casserole will still be flavorful and satisfying.
Can I prepare this dish the night before?
Definitely. This casserole is perfect for making ahead. Assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it fresh for a warm, comforting breakfast without the prep stress.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
The oven at a low temperature, around 325°F, is ideal for reheating. Cover the casserole loosely with foil to keep moisture in and heat until warmed through, preserving the soft custard and preventing dryness.
Can I add other flavors or toppings to the casserole?
Sure! Feel free to add chopped nuts, raisins, or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the custard mix. Topping with fresh fruit or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce can add a delicious twist. This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe is very versatile and open to your personal creativity.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe is a wonderful way to bring warmth, sweetness, and a little indulgence to your table. It’s easy to assemble, shows up beautifully, and tastes like a morning hug in every bite. Whether for a holiday brunch or weekend treat, this recipe invites you to slow down and savor something truly special. Give it a try—you won’t regret waking up to this glorious, cinnamon-spiced delight!
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole combines the best of two breakfast favorites—gooey cinnamon rolls and rich French toast—into one decadent baked dish. Perfect for brunch or a special occasion, it features tender cinnamon roll pieces soaked in a cinnamon-spiced custard, baked until golden and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze and maple syrup drizzle.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (17.5 oz each)
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 0.25 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Glaze
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 to 2 tablespoons milk (for thinning glaze)
Toppings
- Reserved icing from cinnamon rolls
- Extra maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and evenly spread the pieces in the prepared dish to form the base of the casserole.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and maple syrup until fully combined and smooth. This custard will soak into the cinnamon roll pieces, infusing them with flavor and moisture.
- Soak Cinnamon Rolls: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll quarters in the baking dish. Gently press down on the pieces to ensure they absorb the custard well and are fully coated.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed up and golden brown on top. Once done, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before glazing.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, melted butter, powdered sugar, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add additional milk if needed to reach a drizzling consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm casserole. Then, spoon or drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing on top along with extra maple syrup if desired. Slice into portions and serve warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For an even richer flavor, substitute half the milk with half-and-half or additional heavy cream in the custard.
- Allowing the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps the custard set and makes slicing easier.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- Customize toppings with chopped nuts or fresh fruit for added texture and flavor.
