Gather your family and friends for a breakfast that’s sure to impress with this Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole. This epic dish combines the cozy, comfort of classic cinnamon rolls with the ease of a one-pan breakfast bake. Packed with gooey, melty cinnamon flavor and a lush, creamy custard, this casserole is a festive, hearty way to start the day.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole
This Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup, delivering all the irresistible flavors of cinnamon rolls in an easy, no-fuss breakfast casserole. Brimming with warm, zesty cinnamon swirls and a velvety custard base, this dish is both indulgent and satisfying. Plus, the make-ahead convenience means you can prep it the night before and pop it in the oven for a stress-free, crowd-pleasing brunch. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or treating your family to a cozy weekend breakfast, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
This Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. You’ll need bread, eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and a few other pantry staples to create this warm, lush bake. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins, like chopped pecans or a drizzle of cream cheese frosting.
- 8 cups – cubed bread
- 8 large – eggs
- 2 cups – whole milk
- 1/2 cup – granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons – ground cinnamon
Ingredient Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free bread (it works just as well!)
- Dairy-Free: Swap the milk for your favorite non-dairy milk, and use a plant-based butter alternative in the cinnamon swirl.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole
This Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole comes together in just a few simple steps. The key is to let the casserole rest before baking to allow the bread to soak up all the custard flavors.
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by tearing the bread into bite-sized pieces and arranging them in a greased baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the bread, making sure all the pieces are coated.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, brown sugar, and more cinnamon to create the cinnamon swirl. Dollop this mixture over the top of the casserole, then use a knife to gently swirl it into the custard.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Uncover the casserole and bake for 45-55 minutes, until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Drizzle with a creamy vanilla glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy, cinnamon-spiced flavors.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Mix-Ins: For a heartier dish, fold in diced apples, pecans, or a handful of chocolate chips.
- Bread Swap: You can also use different types of bread, like challah or sourdough, to change up the texture.
- Mini Versions: To make mini versions, use a muffin tin and adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Soak Time: The key is to let the casserole rest before baking to allow the bread to soak up all the custard flavors.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of crispy bacon for a truly indulgent breakfast.
Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving.
Make-Ahead: This casserole is perfect for making in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Nutrition Information
This Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that provides a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to fuel your day. Each serving contains approximately 300 calories, 15g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, and 12g of protein. It’s a satisfying and indulgent way to start your morning.
- Serving Size: 1/8 of casserole
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Carbs: 35 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is perfect for making in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of bread, such as challah, brioche, or sourdough. Each will provide a unique texture and flavor.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the center is set and the top is golden brown, usually around 45-55 minutes of baking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Bake it as directed, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of crispy bacon for a truly indulgent breakfast.
Try These Next
- Cinnamon Roll Pancake Bake For Brunch
- Cinnamon Roll Waffles With Cream Cheese Drizzle
- Cinnamon Roll Milkshake With Whipped Cream
Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: 🍳 Breakfast & Brunch Upgrades
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls with a creamy egg custard. Perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings!
Ingredients
• 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup maple syrup
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. 2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. 3. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and place them in the prepared baking dish.
4. 4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and maple syrup.
5. 5. Pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring they are well coated.
6. 6. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top if using.
7. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and golden brown.
8. 8. Remove from the oven and drizzle with the icing from the cinnamon rolls.
9. 9. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Add powdered sugar on top if desired.
Notes
• For a richer flavor, you can substitute half-and-half for the milk.
• This casserole can be prepared the night before; simply cover and refrigerate before baking.
• Serve with fresh fruit or whipped cream for a special touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: cinnamon roll, breakfast casserole, brunch