If you’re searching for a breakfast treat that’s both indulgent and effortlessly satisfying, look no further than this Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe. Imagine all the gooey, cinnamon-swirled goodness of classic cinnamon rolls transformed into a fluffy, baked casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or savoring throughout the week. It’s a perfect harmony of sweet, soft, and slightly crispy edges, made with convenience in mind yet bursting with homemade charm. Whether it’s for a weekend brunch, holiday morning, or just a sweet pick-me-up, this dish will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this comforting Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe, you’ll rely on a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible aroma that makes cinnamon rolls so beloved.
- Cinnamon rolls with icing: The star ingredient provides soft dough, cinnamon swirl, and ready-made sweetness for an easy base.
- Eggs: Bind the casserole together, lending structure and richness to the custard-like filling.
- Milk: Keeps the casserole moist, tender, and creamy as it bakes.
- Ground cinnamon: Amplifies the warm, spicy flavor and complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant, buttery note that enhances all the other ingredients.
- Brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps create a golden crust.
- Butter: Offers richness and a slight crispness around the edges when baked.
- Maple syrup (optional): Perfect for drizzling on top to boost the flavor and give a glossy finish.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your casserole bakes evenly and won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze and preserving those beautiful cinnamon roll pieces.
Step 2: Cut the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the package of cinnamon rolls and slice each roll into quarters. Placing these bite-sized pieces into your baking dish creates the perfect layering effect, allowing the custard to soak into every nook and cranny.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract. This blend turns into a luscious custard that will soak into the cinnamon roll pieces, enhancing their flavor and keeping the casserole moist.
Step 4: Combine and Soak
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the dish. Press down gently with the back of a spoon or your hands to ensure each piece absorbs the mixture and swells up full of that sweet custard magic.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Pop the baking dish into your oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. During this time, the casserole will puff up, develop a golden brown top, and cook through so it’s soft inside but beautifully set and slightly caramelized on the edges.
Step 6: Add the Icing
Once out of the oven, immediately drizzle the included icing over the hot casserole. It will melt slightly, creating pools of sweet, creamy goodness all over the top.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve this delightful cinnamon roll casserole while it’s still warm to enjoy the full gooey texture and inviting aromas. It’s a dish that practically invites smiles and second helpings!
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the icing from the cinnamon roll pack adds plenty of sweetness, feel free to sprinkle additional chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for a satisfying crunch. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar also add beautiful color and a touch of freshness.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad, creamy yogurt, or even a side of crispy bacon for those who like a savory contrast to their sweet breakfast treats. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot tea rounds out the experience perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a lovely brunch spread, cut the casserole into small squares and serve on a platter with various toppings on the side—like warm maple syrup, whipped cream, or fruit compotes—so guests can customize their bites. You could also serve it in individual ramekins for a charming, single-serve presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole stays moist and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it an easy grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover portions by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or placing them in freezer-safe containers. Frozen casserole will maintain its quality for up to 2 months and is a great way to enjoy your favorite dish anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes to restore that slightly crisp top. Add a little fresh drizzle of icing or syrup after reheating for an extra touch of sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this casserole?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work wonderfully and add a personal touch. Just cut them into quarters and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and use vegan butter if you prefer. The texture might vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Can I prepare the Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe the night before?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and let it soak in the custard overnight in the fridge. Then bake it fresh in the morning.
What’s the best way to keep the casserole from becoming soggy?
Pressing the cinnamon rolls gently into the custard helps them absorb evenly without becoming mushy. Baking until the edges turn golden brown also keeps some crispness intact.
Can I add fruit to the casserole?
Yes! Toss in fresh or frozen berries, sliced apples, or chopped pears before pouring over the custard to add a fruity burst and a lovely twist on the traditional recipe.
Final Thoughts
If you want a breakfast or brunch dish that feels both special and effortless, this Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is pure magic. It transforms simple cinnamon rolls into a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this deliciously easy treat in your life. Trust me, your mornings will never be the same!
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A simple and delightful Cinnamon Roll Casserole that combines the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls baked in a rich egg custard. Easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch, this casserole offers a warm, gooey texture topped with sweet icing and an optional maple syrup drizzle.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package cinnamon rolls with icing (usually 8 rolls)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cut cinnamon rolls: Open the cinnamon roll package and cut each roll into quarters. Distribute the pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
- Combine: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down the pieces so they soak up the custard mixture well.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the casserole is golden brown on top and set in the center.
- Add icing: Remove the casserole from the oven and drizzle with the icing packet included with the cinnamon rolls while still warm.
- Serve: Serve the casserole warm, optionally topped with maple syrup for extra sweetness and flavor. Enjoy your comforting breakfast treat!
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer custard, but any milk or milk alternative can work.
- Be careful not to overbake; the casserole should be set but still moist and gooey inside.
- Adding maple syrup as a topping adds a nice complementary sweetness but is completely optional.
- For a lower-sugar option, consider reducing the brown sugar or using cinnamon rolls with less sugar.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before; just refrigerate before baking and add 5 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
