If you love the comforting aroma of cinnamon and the warm, gooey texture of freshly baked cinnamon rolls but are looking for a simpler way to serve them to a crowd, this Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is about to change your breakfast game forever. It takes the beloved cinnamon roll, breaks it up into a layered bake, and infuses it with a rich custard that’s perfectly spiced and delectably sweet. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish offers all the charm of classic cinnamon rolls in a quicker, fuss-free format that’s utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe plays an important role, combining familiar flavors with creamy textures and that signature cinnamon sweetness. The simplicity of the list means you likely have most of these staples on hand, and each adds its own magic to the final dish.
- Cinnamon rolls (with icing included): The star of the dish, bringing that soft, spiraled sweetness and essential frosting glaze.
- Eggs: Provide structure and create the luscious custard that soaks into the rolls.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and helps dissolve the brown sugar and cinnamon so flavors meld perfectly.
- Ground cinnamon: Gives an extra punch of spice beyond the rolls themselves for a deeper cinnamon flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor profile with a warm, fragrant note that softens the cinnamon’s punch.
- Brown sugar: Imparts richness and a subtle molasses undertone, enhancing caramelization as it bakes.
- Butter: Adds moisture and a golden finish, contributing to the tender crumb of the casserole.
- Maple syrup (optional): For drizzling at serving, it lends a natural sweetness and lovely sticky texture.
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure the casserole browns beautifully on the edges.
Step 2: Cut and Arrange Cinnamon Rolls
Open the cinnamon roll package and cut each roll into quarters. This creates bite-sized pieces that will soak up the custard more evenly. Spread these pieces evenly in the greased baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This custard is the secret to transforming the rolls from individual treats into a cohesive, custardy casserole.
Step 4: Combine Custard with Cinnamon Rolls
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down on the rolls just a bit to help them soak up the custard, but don’t squish them too much—some of that lovely layering needs to remain visible.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Set
Bake the casserole for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top and a custard that’s set but still tender in the center. This baking step melds all those flavors and textures into one incredible dish.
Step 6: Drizzle with Icing and Serve Warm
Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately drizzle on the icing that came with your cinnamon rolls. Its glaze will melt slightly, creating a dreamy, glossy finish that’s hard to resist. Serve the casserole warm for the best experience.
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the icing on top is a standout, adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of chopped nuts such as toasted pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and visual appeal. Fresh fruit like raspberries or sliced strawberries create a wonderful contrast in freshness and color.
Side Dishes
This casserole is rich and filling, so pairing it with bright, fresh sides like a simple fruit salad or a bowl of mixed berries balances out the sweetness perfectly. A hot cup of coffee or spiced chai can elevate breakfast or brunch even further.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch party, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a personal touch. You can also layer in bits of cream cheese or swirl in a drizzle of caramel sauce before baking to add indulgent flair. Little touches make this recipe feel boutique but still super easy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, simply cover the leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect make-ahead dish that tastes great the next morning.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by wrapping them securely in foil and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two until warmed through, or gently warm in an oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out. A quick drizzle of additional icing or maple syrup after reheating brings that fresh-baked charm right back.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls in this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work wonderfully here and give you the flexibility to customize the sweetness or spices. Just cut and prepare them the same way as store-bought for best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg alternative, use plant-based milk, and choose dairy-free cinnamon rolls if available. The texture will differ slightly but can still be delightful.
Can I add nuts or fruit inside the casserole?
Your casserole is a blank canvas! Feel free to fold in chopped nuts, raisins, or fresh fruit like apple pieces before baking. These additions add texture and bursts of flavor your family will love.
How long should I let the casserole cool before serving?
It’s best to serve the casserole warm but not piping hot. Let it rest for about 10 minutes after baking to allow the custard to set fully, making it easier to slice and enjoy without losing that gooey center.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover casserole without drying it out?
Reheat leftovers at a moderate oven temperature covered with foil or in short bursts in the microwave. This keeps the moisture locked in while warming it through evenly, especially if you add a fresh drizzle of icing or syrup afterward.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe truly feels like a warm hug on a plate, effortless enough for busy mornings but special enough to impress anyone at your table. It’s a delightful twist on a classic treat that blends convenience, comfort, and nostalgia all at once. I can’t wait for you to try it and watch those cinnamon swirls disappear bite by bite. Trust me, once you make it, this will be your new go-to breakfast showstopper!
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish combining soft cinnamon rolls baked in a rich custard made of eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Topped with sweet icing, it offers a gooey, comforting treat perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Rolls Section
- 1 package cinnamon rolls with icing included (about 8 rolls)
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional Toppings
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cinnamon roll package and cut each roll into quarters. Arrange the pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, spreading them out to fit comfortably.
- Whisk Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Custard over Rolls: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down the rolls to ensure they soak up the custard mixture fully.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and set in the center when gently shaken.
- Add Icing and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately drizzle the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls over the top. Optionally, serve with maple syrup for extra sweetness and flavor.
- Enjoy Warm: Serve the casserole warm for the best gooey texture and rich flavors. Enjoy your delicious cinnamon roll casserole!
Notes
- You can use any brand of cinnamon rolls with icing included for convenience.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter.
- If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle extra cinnamon on top before baking.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before and baked fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast.
- Optional toppings like chopped nuts or fresh fruit can add texture and flavor.
