Save to Pinterest This dish features fluffy cinnamon rolls cut and layered in a baking dish, then soaked in a creamy custard mixture of eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, and warming spices. It's baked until golden and set, then gently topped with melted butter and drizzled with the reserved vanilla icing for added sweetness. Ideal for special mornings, it combines soft textures and rich flavors to create a comforting brunch option. Add nuts or fresh berries for extra flavor and texture.
Discovering this Cinnamon Roll Casserole felt like stumbling on a cozy secret for busy mornings—warm, sweet, and impossibly easy to make.
I’ll never forget the first time unexpected guests arrived, and this casserole melted out of the oven just in time to save the day with a delicious, warm welcome.
Ingredients
- Cinnamon Rolls: Reach for refrigerated cinnamon rolls for the perfect fluffy base that’s already swirled with cinnamon goodness and icing on top
- Eggs: Use large eggs to bind the custard with a rich texture
- Whole Milk: Opting for whole milk adds creaminess you’ll appreciate in every bite
- Heavy Cream: This ups the custard’s richness and helps it set beautifully
- Granulated Sugar: Balances the spice with sweetness
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla is key to enhancing the warmth of cinnamon
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds comforting spice and aroma
- Ground Nutmeg: Just a touch to deepen flavors
- Pinch of Salt: Elevates all the sweetness perfectly
- Unsalted Butter: Melted and drizzled for a golden finish
- Reserved Icing: The icing from the cinnamon roll cans is the final luscious touch to drizzle on top
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and the casserole cooks evenly
- Open and Cut:
- Pop open those cinnamon roll cans; save the icing for later. Cut each roll into quarters—you want bite-sized pieces that soak up the custard
- Arrange the Rolls:
- Scatter the cinnamon roll pieces evenly in your baking dish, laying the groundwork for that custardy soak
- Mix the Custard:
- Whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until smooth and fragrant with warm spices
- Pour and Press:
- Evenly pour your custard over the cinnamon rolls. Gently press down to ensure every piece soaks up that sweet cream mixture
- Butter Drizzle:
- Drizzle melted unsalted butter on top to help create a golden, tender finish
- Bake:
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is golden around the edges and set in the middle—a comforting smell will fill your kitchen
- Cool and Ice:
- Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Warm the reserved icing slightly and drizzle it generously over the top before serving
Save to Pinterest This dish became more than just breakfast; it evolved into a tradition for celebrations and lazy Sunday mornings where comfort was the main ingredient.
Keeping It Fresh
Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave—just warm gently to restore that gooey cinnamon charm and soft custard texture without drying out.
When You're Missing Something
If you find yourself without heavy cream, substituting with more whole milk works in a pinch, though the casserole won&t be quite as rich or creamy.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, a cup of strong coffee, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to brighten flavors.
- Don&t forget to save extra icing almost every time—it&s the star of the show
- If you feel adventurous, adding chopped pecans before baking adds a nice crunch
- Let the casserole cool properly so it slices beautifully and keeps its shape when served
Save to Pinterest Thanks for sharing this kitchen moment with me—here&s to many cozy mornings filled with cinnamon and sweet memories.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
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Yes, homemade cinnamon rolls work wonderfully. Simply cut them into quarters and proceed with the soaking and baking steps.
- → How do I prevent the custard from making rolls soggy?
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Allow the rolls to soak just long enough to absorb the custard without becoming oversaturated. Press gently to ensure even moisture.
- → What is the best way to warm the icing?
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Microwave the reserved icing for 10–15 seconds or until slightly warmed to easily drizzle over the baked casserole.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
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Yes, assemble without baking and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh in the morning following the instructions.
- → What additions enhance flavor and texture?
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Adding chopped pecans or walnuts before baking adds crunch, while serving with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar brightens the dish.
