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

Scale

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)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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.