This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a warm and cozy breakfast treat that combines soft cinnamon rolls and a creamy egg mixture. It’s quick to make and perfect for any brunch!
But let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dish that’s basically dessert for breakfast? 😄 I like to serve it with a drizzle of icing on top—yum!
This casserole is super easy to prepare. Just pop in the oven and enjoy the sweet aroma filling your kitchen. It’s a fun way to spice up your morning routine!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon Rolls: The star of the dish! You can’t go wrong with refrigerated cinnamon rolls for convenience. If you want a homemade touch, you can use your favorite homemade cinnamon roll dough as a substitute.
Eggs: Eggs give the casserole its custardy texture. For a vegan version, try using flax eggs or a plant-based egg substitute to create a similar consistency.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk works best, but you can also use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Just choose a non-flavored variety for the best taste.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, a splash of almond extract can be a nice alternative.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Texture in the Casserole?
The key to getting a soft, custardy casserole lies in the soaking process. When you pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces, make sure to let it soak for a bit. This ensures that each piece absorbs the mixture.
- Mix your eggs, milk, and vanilla until well combined.
- When pouring the mixture, do it slowly and gently.
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before baking. This gives the rolls a chance to soak up that delicious egg mixture!
Pay attention to baking it just until it’s set; overbaking can lead to dryness. The top should be lightly golden when done—yum!
Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cans (8 count each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (such as Pillsbury)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Additional icing or powdered sugar for drizzling/topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cinnamon Roll Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 50-55 minutes before you can dig in and enjoy this sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:
Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and take out the rolls. Using a knife, cut each roll into halves or quarters. This will help them mix well with the egg mixture later. Place the cut pieces evenly in your greased baking dish.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs and add the cup of milk and the teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk it all together until nicely combined and frothy. This mixture will soak into the cinnamon rolls and create that fluffy, pudding-like texture.
4. Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Make sure to cover all the pieces well. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cinnamon rolls to soak in the yummy mixture.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set (not jiggly) and the top is a nice golden brown.
6. Cool and Drizzle:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to serve. While it’s still warm, drizzle the included icing from the cinnamon rolls over the top. If you’d like, you can sprinkle on some powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice into squares and dig in while it’s warm. This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is soft, sweet, and perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings!
Enjoy your delightful dish! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Cinnamon Rolls Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen cinnamon rolls! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cutting and assembling in the casserole. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or leave them at room temperature for a few hours.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make a dairy-free version, simply substitute the milk with your favorite plant-based milk, like almond milk or coconut milk. Also, check that the cinnamon rolls you use are dairy-free to keep the entire dish compliant.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in ingredients like chopped nuts, fruits (like apples or blueberries), or even chocolate chips for added flavor. Just make sure not to overload it, so the casserole cooks evenly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy the sweet goodness again!