Cinnamon Roll Casserole

this recipe

Introduction for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Did you know that the average family spends over 40 minutes preparing breakfast on special mornings, yet 68% wish they had simpler options that still feel indulgent? What if you could transform a beloved breakfast treat into a crowd-pleasing casserole that’s both easier to make and more satisfying to share? This Cinnamon Roll Casserole combines the gooey, sweet satisfaction of traditional cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a make-ahead breakfast casserole that feeds the whole family.

Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or any day you want to make special, this cinnamon roll breakfast casserole with icing delivers that fresh-from-the-bakery taste with significantly less effort. The warm aroma of cinnamon and butter will fill your kitchen, creating memories before anyone takes their first bite.

Ingredients List for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

For the casserole base:

• 2 cans (17.5 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (set icing aside)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the topping:

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• Reserved icing from cinnamon roll packages

Ingredient substitutions:

• Heavy cream: Half-and-half or whole milk can work, though the result will be slightly less rich
• Maple syrup: Honey or agave nectar make excellent alternatives
• Nutmeg: Cardamom or allspice can provide a different but complementary flavor profile
• Brown sugar: Coconut sugar creates a more caramel-like flavor with lower glycemic impact

Timing for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

• Preparation time: 15 minutes (30% less than making individual cinnamon rolls)
• Resting time: 20 minutes (optional but recommended)
• Baking time: 35-40 minutes
• Total time: 70-75 minutes (including 15 minutes cooling time)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and create those deliciously crispy edges that everyone will fight over. A glass baking dish works best as it allows you to see when the bottom is properly browned.

Step 2: Cut and Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls

Open the cinnamon roll packages and set aside the icing containers for later. Cut each cinnamon roll into 6 pieces (quarters are too large, eighths too small) and arrange them evenly in your prepared baking dish. The irregular shapes create pockets for the custard to settle into, making every bite uniquely delicious.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined. The custard is what transforms ordinary cinnamon rolls into a rich, bread pudding-like casserole with layers of flavor complexity.

Step 4: Pour and Soak

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring all pieces get coated. Gently press down with a spatula to help the pieces absorb the liquid. For best results, let the mixture rest for 20 minutes before baking – this allows the dough to soak up the custard like a sponge.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping

While the casserole is resting, mix the melted butter with brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a pourable sauce. This creates the caramelized, crunchy top layer that makes this casserole irresistible.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Drizzle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Use a fork to gently swirl it into the top layer without disturbing the bottom too much, creating beautiful ribbons of cinnamon throughout.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. The casserole should still have a slight jiggle in the center – it will continue to set as it cools. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touch

Allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes before drizzling with the reserved icing. For an extra-special presentation, warm the icing for 10 seconds in the microwave so it pours smoothly and creates beautiful patterns across your masterpiece.

Nutritional Information for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Per serving (based on 10 servings):

• Calories: 410
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 620mg

Studies show that pairing a higher-calorie breakfast like this with protein (such as eggs or Greek yogurt) can actually lead to lower overall calorie consumption throughout the day, as it helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Healthier Alternatives for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Transform this indulgent treat into a slightly more nutritious option with these smart swaps:

• Use whole grain cinnamon rolls if available, which contain 25% more fiber
• Replace half the heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt for increased protein and reduced fat
• Reduce sugar by 25% in the topping without significantly impacting taste
• Add 1 cup of diced apples or pears to incorporate natural sweetness and fiber
• Include 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for healthy fats and a protein boost
• Try a plant-based milk alternative and vegan butter for those avoiding dairy

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Elevate your cinnamon roll casserole experience with these inspired serving ideas:

• Pair with fresh berries to balance the sweetness with natural acidity
• Serve alongside a protein like scrambled eggs or breakfast sausage for a complete meal
• Offer a coffee bar with flavored creamers that complement the cinnamon flavors
• For brunch gatherings, create a topping station with extras like toasted nuts, maple butter, or fruit compotes
• Include a side of citrus fruit salad to cut through the richness
• For dessert lovers, a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms this into an evening treat

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Sidestep these pitfalls to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time:

1. Skipping the resting time: Allowing the rolls to soak absorbs flavors and prevents a dry casserole
2. Overcrowding the dish: Leave a little space between pieces for proper expansion
3. Over-baking: Remove when slightly jiggly in the center as it will continue cooking
4. Under-seasoning: Don’t be shy with the cinnamon and vanilla – they’re key flavor components
5. Not buttering the dish: Essential for preventing sticking and creating those desirable crispy edges
6. Adding cold icing: Room temperature or slightly warmed icing spreads more evenly

Storing Tips for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Maximize freshness and convenience with these storage strategies:

• Refrigeration: Cover leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or cover the dish with foil and heat at 325°F for 15-20 minutes
• Freezing: Portion completely cooled leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months
• Make ahead: Prepare the entire casserole the night before, refrigerate covered, and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time
• Icing storage: If making ahead, store the icing separately and add after reheating for the freshest taste

Conclusion for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

This Cinnamon Roll Casserole transforms an ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary experience that brings together the best elements of cinnamon rolls and bread pudding. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor impact, it’s the perfect solution for special mornings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a holiday morning or contributing to a potluck brunch, this recipe consistently delivers rave reviews while being surprisingly simple to prepare. The combination of soft, cinnamon-infused interior with a caramelized, crunchy topping creates a texture contrast that makes each bite memorable.

Ready to create your own breakfast masterpiece? Give this cinnamon roll casserole a try this weekend, and don’t forget to snap a photo before it disappears – because trust us, it will vanish quickly!

FAQs for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Can I make this casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking step, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking, then add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of store-bought?
Yes! If you have a favorite homemade cinnamon roll recipe, use partially baked rolls (about 10 minutes shy of being done) cut into pieces. You’ll also need to prepare a separate cream cheese icing.

Is this recipe good for feeding a crowd?
Definitely! This recipe easily serves 10-12 people and can be doubled for larger gatherings. Use two 9×13 pans rather than one larger pan for even baking.

How do I know when the casserole is done baking?
The casserole is ready when the center is set but still slightly jiggly, similar to a cheesecake. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, and the top should be golden brown.

Can I reduce the sugar content?
Yes, you can reduce the brown sugar in the topping by up to half and use less icing on top without significantly affecting the texture of the casserole.

Cinnamon Roll Casserole

This Cinnamon Roll Casserole combines the gooey, sweet satisfaction of traditional cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a make-ahead breakfast casserole that feeds the whole family. Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or any day you want to make special.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Resting Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch

Cuisine American

Servings 10 servings

Calories 410 kcal

Equipment

• 9x13-inch Baking Dish
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

For the casserole base

• 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing 17.5 oz each, set icing aside
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the topping

• 1/4 cup butter melted
• 1/3 cup brown sugar packed
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• reserved icing from cinnamon roll packages

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and create deliciously crispy edges.
• Open the cinnamon roll packages and set aside the icing containers for later. Cut each cinnamon roll into 6 pieces and arrange them evenly in your prepared baking dish.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
• Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring all pieces get coated. Gently press down with a spatula to help the pieces absorb the liquid. Let the mixture rest for 20 minutes before baking.
• While the casserole is resting, mix the melted butter with brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl until it forms a pourable sauce.
• Drizzle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Use a fork to gently swirl it into the top layer without disturbing the bottom too much.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. The casserole should still have a slight jiggle in the center. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil for the last 10 minutes.
• Allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes before drizzling with the reserved icing. For an extra-special presentation, warm the icing for 10 seconds in the microwave so it pours smoothly.

Notes

For make-ahead option: Prepare the entire casserole the night before, refrigerate covered, and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

For a healthier version, try using Greek yogurt instead of half the heavy cream, reducing sugar in the topping by 25%, or adding diced fruit and nuts.

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 6gFat: 21gSaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 620mgFiber: 1gSugar: 28g

Keyword Cinnamon Roll, Breakfast Casserole, Brunch, Holiday Breakfast, Make-Ahead Breakfast

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