What makes this Cinnamon Roll Casserole special is its texture: the tops bake to a light golden crisp while the inside stays soft, buttery, and custard-like. By combining refrigerated cinnamon rolls with an egg and milk mixture, you create a sweet breakfast bake that feels like French toast and cinnamon rolls had a delicious baby. The vanilla glaze poured on top adds that final touch of sweetness and shine, sealing in the perfect flavor balance.
The best part? You can prepare Cinnamon Roll Casserole ahead of time and bake it fresh in the morning. It’s an easy make-ahead option for Christmas morning, birthdays, or any cozy gathering. With just a handful of ingredients and no kneading or rising required, this recipe offers bakery-level results with everyday simplicity. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll never go back to plain cinnamon rolls again.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and warm before serving.
- Reheat: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30–45 seconds.
Summary
This easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole takes refrigerated cinnamon rolls and turns them into a gooey, custardy breakfast bake. It’s sweet, buttery, and packed with cinnamon flavor—ideal for holiday mornings, brunches, or cozy weekends.
Yield: 6–8 servings | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30–35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula or spoon
- Nonstick cooking spray
Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (12–16 oz each), icing reserved
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for extra richness)
- ⅓ cup maple syrup or brown sugar (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Prepare cinnamon rolls: Open cans and cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. Spread pieces evenly across the prepared baking dish.
- Mix custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Assemble: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls. Gently press down with a spatula to help them absorb the custard.
- Add butter or syrup: Drizzle melted butter or maple syrup on top if using for extra flavor.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and set in the center.
- Glaze and serve: Warm the reserved icing packets slightly, drizzle over the baked casserole, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use any brand of refrigerated cinnamon rolls—regular or jumbo.
- Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out mostly clean.
- For homemade touch, mix powdered sugar and cream for a fresh glaze.
Tips for Success
- Cut cinnamon rolls evenly for consistent baking.
- Use full-fat milk or half-and-half for a richer custard.
- Don’t overbake—remove once edges are golden and center is just set.
- Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing to help layers hold together.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Apple Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Add diced apples or apple pie filling before baking.
- Pecan Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking.
- Overnight Version: Assemble the night before, cover, refrigerate, and bake in the morning.
- Extra Sweet Glaze: Mix reserved icing with 2 tbsp cream cheese for a richer topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Yes! Slice them into smaller pieces before layering. Adjust baking time as needed for larger rolls.
Can I prepare Cinnamon Roll Casserole overnight?
Absolutely. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning as directed.
What if I don’t have canned cinnamon rolls?
Use biscuit dough brushed with melted butter and cinnamon sugar—it works perfectly as a substitute.
How can I make it less sweet?
Skip the syrup or glaze, and serve with fresh fruit or plain yogurt for balance.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll Casserole is everything you love about classic cinnamon rolls in a faster, simpler, and more shareable form. With buttery layers, creamy custard, and gooey icing, it’s the perfect comfort breakfast for weekends or special occasions. Serve it warm, enjoy the aroma, and make every morning a little sweeter.