If you have been searching for a dish that wraps up all the cozy, sweet comfort of cinnamon rolls with a twist, then you will absolutely adore this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe. It turns those classic, fluffy cinnamon rolls into a warm, gooey, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat anytime. The combination of soft rolls soaked in a cinnamon-egg custard, finished with a drizzle of maple syrup and melting icing, creates an irresistible balance of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is both simple and essential. Each component plays a crucial role: the cinnamon rolls provide the soft and sweet base, eggs and cream create the custard that makes the casserole rich and tender, and the spices add that iconic warmth and depth.
- Cinnamon rolls: Using two packages ensures a thick, luscious casserole that’s fluffy and full of cinnamon goodness.
- Large eggs: Essential for creating the custard that binds the casserole while adding richness.
- Heavy whipping cream: Contributes a silky texture and luxurious mouthfeel to the custard.
- Pure vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds aromatic complexity.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings the trademark cinnamon flavor that defines this dish.
- Ground nutmeg (optional): Adds a subtle hint of warmth that complements the cinnamon.
- Pure maple syrup: Pours over the finished bake, adding natural sweetness and a sticky, delightful finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly butter a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will develop a beautiful golden crust as it bakes.
Step 2: Cut and Arrange Cinnamon Rolls
Take the cinnamon rolls and separate them from the packages. Cut each roll into approximately 1-inch pieces. Spread these evenly in the prepared baking dish, giving you that perfect base that’ll soak up all the delicious custard.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Custard
In a mixing bowl, beat the three large eggs until fully combined. Stir in the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and the optional ground nutmeg. Mix thoroughly to create a smooth, fragrant custard that will coat and soften each cinnamon roll piece.
Step 4: Pour Custard Over Rolls
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Make sure to cover them evenly so every bite is creamy, spiced, and full of flavor.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place the baking dish in your oven and bake for 22 to 28 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed up and golden brown on top. Once done, let it cool for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to settle and the texture to set perfectly.
Step 6: Melt the Icing
Spoon out the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls into a small bowl and microwave it for about 15 seconds to soften it. This makes it easy to drizzle and gives a lovely glaze finish to the casserole.
Step 7: Drizzle Maple Syrup and Icing
Finally, drizzle warm maple syrup followed by the melted icing over the baked cinnamon roll casserole. This adds a sticky, sweet finish that brings the whole dish together in perfect harmony.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra splash of freshness and texture, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts over the top just before serving. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of fresh berries can also brighten up this sweet feast beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple, fresh fruit salad or a cup of creamy yogurt to balance the sweetness and bring a bit of zing to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it family-style straight from the baking dish for a warm, welcoming feel, or portion out individual servings on pretty plates garnished with mint leaves and a small drizzle of extra maple syrup for a more elegant brunch presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover casserole covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It maintains its flavors beautifully and the cinnamon roll pieces will stay wonderfully tender.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual for a fresh-from-the-oven taste anytime you want.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and warm for 30-60 seconds or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated 350-degree oven for 10-15 minutes for a crispier edge and soft center.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this casserole?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will elevate the Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe with their fresh dough and unique flavors, making the dish truly special and customizable to your taste.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream alternatives like coconut cream and a vegan butter substitute to prepare the custard and butter the baking dish, making it suitable for dairy-free diets without losing richness.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
If maple syrup isn’t on hand, honey or a simple powdered sugar glaze works wonderfully as a substitute to add that final touch of sweet stickiness to your cinnamon roll casserole.
Can I add other spices to the custard?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of cloves or ginger can add a unique twist to the flavor profile, enhancing the warm spices in this Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe.
How can I make this recipe for a larger crowd?
You can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger casserole dish or two separate dishes. Just keep the baking time consistent and check for that perfect golden finish to ensure it’s baked through.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe truly is one of those magical dishes that brings joy with every bite, combining the nostalgic flavor of cinnamon rolls with a fresh, custardy twist. It’s a guaranteed way to impress your family and friends or make your weekend mornings extra special. I highly encourage you to give it a try—you might just find it becoming your new favorite go-to comfort breakfast or brunch treat!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a decadent, easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish combining tender cinnamon roll pieces baked in a creamy egg custard, then topped with warm maple syrup and melted icing for a sweet, comforting treat.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 2 packages of cinnamon rolls
Custard Mixture
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Toppings
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- Icing from cinnamon roll packages (about 1/2 cup)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly butter a 9 x 13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cut Cinnamon Rolls: Separate the cinnamon rolls and cut each into approximately 1 inch pieces. Spread the pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a bowl, beat the eggs completely until well combined. Add the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Mix thoroughly until the custard mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Pour Custard Over Rolls: Evenly pour the custard mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are coated and soaked.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 22 to 28 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes to set further.
- Melt Icing: Spoon the icing from the cinnamon roll packages into a small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for about 15 seconds until melted and pourable.
- Serve: Drizzle the pure maple syrup and the melted icing generously over the warm baked cinnamon roll casserole. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger spice flavor, increase the cinnamon to 3 teaspoons or add a pinch of cloves.
- The nutmeg is optional but adds a nice warm depth to the custard.
- Use fresh eggs at room temperature to ensure even mixing and better custard texture.
- Letting the casserole cool for 15 minutes helps it set so it slices better.
- You can substitute maple syrup with honey or caramel sauce if preferred.
- The melted icing from the cinnamon rolls adds an extra sweet glaze, but you can also pipe it on after baking for decorative effect.
