This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is like waking up to a sweet hug! It’s made with gooey cinnamon rolls, eggs, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, baked to perfection.
Honestly, it’s perfect for lazy mornings or special brunches. I love serving it with a drizzle of icing on top—it makes everything taste even better! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon Rolls: Using store-bought cinnamon rolls saves time. I prefer the ones with cream cheese icing for added flavor. You can also make homemade rolls if you have the time for a special touch!
Eggs: Large eggs are used here for a rich custard. If you’re vegan or allergic, use flax eggs or a non-dairy egg substitute to mimic the texture.
Whole Milk and Heavy Cream: This combo gives a creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, swap in almond milk and coconut cream, or any preferred non-dairy options.
Granulated Sugar: It sweetens the dish. You can use brown sugar if you like a deeper caramel flavor. For a healthier option, try coconut sugar.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for flavor. If you want an extra kick, add a touch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to the mix!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
To get a perfectly set casserole, absorption of the egg mixture is key. After pouring it over the cinnamon rolls, letting it sit for 10 minutes helps.
- This waiting time allows the bread to soak up the custard, preventing a soggy texture.
- Be sure to cover your baking dish loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
- Check it around the 30-minute mark; it should be lightly browned and puffy!
Enjoy making this delicious cinnamon roll casserole!
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 6 large cinnamon rolls (from a tube or homemade), cut into chunks
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
For Optional Topping:
- Icing for drizzling (can use the icing that comes with cinnamon rolls or make a simple glaze)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take you about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 35-40 minutes for baking. After that, just let it cool a bit, and you’re ready to dive into a cozy breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, take a moment to grease a 9×9 inch baking dish. This ensures that nothing sticks when it’s time to serve!
2. Cut and Place Cinnamon Rolls:
Grab your cinnamon rolls and cut them into bite-sized chunks. Evenly distribute these tasty pieces in your greased baking dish. It should look like a lovely, fluffy pile of cinnamon goodness!
3. Whisk the Custard Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure it’s well combined and smooth—this will become the delicious custard that soaks into the cinnamon rolls.
4. Pour the Mixture Over Cinnamon Rolls:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Use a spatula to gently press down on the rolls if needed, ensuring that every piece is soaked with the custard.
5. Let it Soak:
Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting time is important as it gives the cinnamon rolls a chance to absorb all that yummy custard.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes. Look for it to be puffed up and golden brown on top; it should be set in the center.
7. Cool and Drizzle:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, drizzle your icing or glaze on top for that extra touch of sweetness.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the casserole into squares and enjoy it warm. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a delightful dessert!
Enjoy your warm, gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole!
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking the night before. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then bake as instructed.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’d like a lighter option, you can substitute half and half or use an additional cup of whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream works great, adding a nice richness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. A splash of milk can help bring moisture back if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite add-ins like chopped nuts, raisins, or even fresh fruit like diced apples or berries. Just remember to adjust the baking time if you add more filling to ensure it cooks evenly!
