If you love the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls and the comforting appeal of french toast, then you are in for a real treat with this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe. It combines the fluffy, gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the rich custard texture of classic french toast, creating a crowd-pleasing breakfast that feels both indulgent and inviting. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion breakfast, this casserole brings the perfect blend of warm spices, creamy textures, and nutty crunch in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe shines because of its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays an essential role in building the texture, sweetness, and depth of flavor that makes this dish unforgettable.
- Melted butter: Adds richness and helps the cinnamon roll pieces bake into a golden crust.
- Cinnamon rolls (2 cans): The star ingredient providing that signature cinnamon-sugar swirl and buttery dough.
- Eggs (5): Create the custard base that soaks into the cinnamon rolls for perfect softness.
- Heavy whipping cream (1/2 cup): Boosts creaminess and keeps the casserole tender and moist.
- Cinnamon (2 tsp): Amplifies the warm, spicy flavor notes throughout the dish.
- Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Adds a hint of floral sweetness that balances the cinnamon perfectly.
- Chopped pecans (1/2 cup): Brings a delightful crunchy texture and a nutty flavor contrast.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Begin by melting the butter until completely liquid and pour it evenly into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking pan. This buttery layer will ensure the bottom gets beautifully golden and adds a delicious richness to every bite.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Open both cans of cinnamon roll dough and carefully separate the rolls into 16 individual pieces. Set the included icing aside for later use; it will become the irresistible finishing drizzle on your casserole.
Step 3: Arrange the Dough
Cut each roll into quarters to create smaller pieces that will soak up the custard evenly. Spread these dough pieces into a single layer across the buttered pan, laying the groundwork for the casserole’s fluffy, pillowy texture.
Step 4: Make the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly, then add the heavy whipping cream, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined and luxuriously smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the quartered cinnamon rolls, ensuring each piece is coated for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 5: Add Pecans and Syrup
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the custard-soaked rolls for delightful nutty crunch in every bite. Drizzle a bit of syrup on top to enhance the sweetness and help create that caramelized finish while baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in a preheated 375°F oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for a golden brown top and a bubbling custard center — the perfect indicator that your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe is ready to come out of the oven.
Step 7: Cool and Ice
Allow the casserole to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes so it settles and holds together nicely. While it cools, heat the reserved icing in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds until smooth and drizzle-able.
Step 8: Drizzle Icing and Serve
Drizzle the warm icing generously over the casserole to add that classic sweet topping that ties the whole dish together. Serve warm and watch everyone’s faces light up with delight.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh berries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar make gorgeous, fresh garnishes that contrast perfectly with the rich cinnamon and icing. For an extra indulgent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Side Dishes
Pair your cinnamon roll french toast casserole with crispy bacon or savory sausage for a fantastic sweet-savory balance. A fresh fruit salad or a light green salad can also help brighten the meal and keep it from feeling too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve portions in individual ramekins for an elegant brunch presentation. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert-style twist or layer some cream cheese frosting between the casserole and the icing drizzle for an ultra-luxe version.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, cover leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe holds up well and can easily be reheated for next-day indulgence.
Freezing
Wrap the casserole securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing to preserve freshness. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave for one to two minutes or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. To maintain crisp edges, the oven method is best, but the microwave is perfectly fine for a quick fix.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls bring a personalized touch and can make the casserole even more delicious, just be sure they’re not overly large or dense so the custard can soak in well.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting the butter and heavy cream with suitable non-dairy alternatives like coconut oil or vegan butter, and using a plant-based cream substitute, you can easily create a dairy-free version.
Can I add other nuts or toppings?
Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, or pecans all complement the flavors wonderfully. You can also sprinkle dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
What is the best way to prepare this recipe for a crowd?
Use multiple 9×13 pans and prepare the recipe in batches, or double the ingredients and bake in larger roasting pans. This makes it perfect for holiday mornings or brunch parties.
Can this casserole be made the night before?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast that tastes like it was made from scratch.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes for breakfast or brunch. The combination of ease, indulgence, and that heavenly cinnamon flavor creates a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, follow along, and enjoy every delicious bite with the people you love.
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish combining the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls with the rich custard flavor of French toast. It’s easy to prepare and bakes into a golden, nutty treat topped with sweet icing, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a special family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 cans cinnamon rolls (Pillsbury, 8 count packages)
- 5 eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 package of syrup for drizzling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking pan: Melt the butter and pour it into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking pan to coat the bottom with butter for flavor and to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the dough: Separate the cans of cinnamon roll dough into 16 individual rolls and set the icing that comes with the rolls aside for later use.
- Cut and layer the dough: Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and arrange them in a single layer in the buttered baking pan, distributing evenly.
- Make the custard mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs. Then add the heavy whipping cream, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Beat all ingredients until well combined to create a custard mixture.
- Pour custard over dough: Pour the egg and cream mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll dough quarters in the baking pan, allowing it to soak in.
- Add nuts and syrup: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top and drizzle with syrup as desired for extra sweetness and texture.
- Bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes to set slightly for easier serving.
- Drizzle icing: Microwave the reserved icing from the cinnamon rolls for 10-15 seconds until pourable. Drizzle the icing over the warm casserole to finish.
- Serve: Slice the casserole, serve warm, and enjoy the comforting flavors of cinnamon roll French toast.
Notes
- Using ungreased pan with melted butter adds flavor and helps to crisp the bottom slightly.
- Letting the casserole cool slightly before icing prevents the drizzle from melting too much.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
- For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice in the custard mixture.
- If you want a sweeter casserole, increase drizzle syrup or add brown sugar sprinkled on top before baking.
- Prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning for a convenient breakfast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
