Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Name: Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 can Refrigerated Cinnamon Rolls (Your favorite brand will do); 1 cup Cream Cheese (Softened); 1 cup Milk; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

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Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s pure magic. Think cinnamon rolls, but imagine them all snuggled together in a pan, soaking up a creamy, custardy sauce, and then baked to golden, gooey perfection. This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is seriously the easiest way to get that warm, comforting cinnamon roll flavor without all the fuss of individual rolling. It’s like a cross between bread pudding and cinnamon rolls, but honestly, I think it might be even better! It’s become a staple in my house, especially on those mornings when everyone’s craving something sweet but I don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be hooked. I always make this when I have friends coming over for brunch. It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

What is cinnamon roll casserole?

Cinnamon Roll Casserole is essentially your favorite cinnamon rolls, deconstructed and then reimagined as a simple, shareable bake. Think of it as a layered bread pudding, but instead of bread, we’re using pre-made cinnamon rolls (yes, the kind from the can – no judgment here!). It’s soaked in a sweet, creamy egg mixture that puffs up beautifully in the oven. The beauty of this casserole is that it takes all the delicious elements of cinnamon rolls – the soft dough, the cinnamon-sugar filling, the creamy glaze – and combines them into one easy-to-make dish. It’s essentially breakfast comfort food at its finest, and perfect for lazy weekend mornings or holiday brunches. I’ve even been known to whip it up for a quick dessert – it’s that versatile!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I even begin? This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a game-changer, and here’s why you’re going to absolutely adore it:

Flavor explosion: WhatImagine eating a cinnamon roll with your choice of toppings. Imagine how much flavor you get out of it. What is cinnamon sugar and What are some of the best ingredients for custard? I’m telling you, it’s like a party in your mouth!
UnbelievablyIs this recipe cheating? What is the best way to make cinnamon rolls? Just a few minutes of mixing and layering, and you’re good to go. This one’s a lifesaver on busy mornings when you want to impress without the stress.
Budget friendlyWith just a handful of simple, affordable ingredients, this casserole won’t break the bank. Is it safe to feed a crowd without emptying your wallet?
Super versatile: super versatileCan you customize this Cinnamon Roll Casserole to your liking? Add nuts, raisins, chocolate chips, or even a dash of your favorite spices to the filling. I’ve experimented with different extracts in the glaze – almond extract is amazing!

What I love most about this is how it transforms a simple can of Cinnamon Rolls into something truly special. What is the kind of recipe that everyone will rave about, and they’ll never guess how easy it was to make. What are some of the best breakfast recipes? What is a good casserole? How do you make cinnamon rolls? What are some comforting cinnamon notes?

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Quick Overview

Making this Cinnamon Roll Casserole is as easy as 1-2-3! First, you’ll cut up the cinnamon rolls and layer them in a baking dish. Then, you’ll whip up a simple custard mixture and pour it over the rolls. After that, sprinkle with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and bake until golden brown and puffed up. Finally, drizzle with the included icing (or your own homemade glaze!) and serve. The best part? This recipe is incredibly forgiving, so don’t worry about being perfect. It’s practically foolproof, which is exactly what I need on a busy morning!

Ingredients

For the Main Batter:
• 2 (12.4 oz) cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (I prefer the Pillsbury Grands! For their size and texture).
• 6 large eggs
• 1 12 cups milk (whole milk gives the richest flavor, but 2% or even almond milk works too – I’ve never tried this). I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
• 12 cup heavy cream (optional, but adds extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but adds a nice crunch)

For the Glaze:
What is your favorite homemade icing recipe for cinnamon rolls?
• 2 tablespoons milk (if needed to thin the glaze)

How do I follow step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This is crucial to prevent the casserole from sticking! I learned this the hard way the first time I made it – what a mess!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon and granulated sugar for the filling. Serve warm or cold. What is that extra burst of cinnamon in this casserole? What are the lumps of cinnamon?

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Set aside. Whisk until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth. Don’t over-whisk! Just until everything is incorporated.

Step 4: Combine

How do you cut cinnamon rolls into 6-8 pieces? I usually use a kitchen shear for this – it’s so much easier than using knife! Spread half of the cinnamon roll pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the rolls in the dish. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle half of them over the cinnamon-sugar mixture as well. Where do you get creative with fillings?

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

Repeat the layers with the remaining cinnamon roll pieces, cinnamon-sugar mixture, and nuts (if using). Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls. Gently press down on the cinnamon rolls to ensure they are submerged in the egg mixture. This helps them soak up all that delicious flavor!

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and puffed up. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning. Every oven is different!

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Let the casserole cool for about 10-15 minutes before drizzling with the included icing from the oven. What are cinnamon roll cans? If the icing is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk to thin it out. How do I make my own cream cheese glaze?

Step 9: Slice & Serve

How do you slice a Cinnamon Roll Casserole into squares and serve warm? What is best eaten fresh out of the oven, when it’s warm and gooey? Is it good with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream?

What should I serve it with?

This Cinnamon Roll Casserole is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of other dishes. What are some of the best dishes to serve depending on the occasion?

For Breakfast:Serve with crispy bacon or sausage for a sweet and savory combination. What are some good side dishes to serve with a fresh fruit salad? I love serving mine with a strong cup of black coffee – the bitterness complements the sweetness.
For Brunch:What are some of the best brunch ideas? What is Cinnamon Roll Casserole? For a festive touch, garnish with fresh berries and mint.
As Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel sauce is also a delicious addition. This is perfect when you’re craving something sweet at 10pm but don’t want to bake a whole cake.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a slice with a warm glass of milk or a cup of hot chocolate. This is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening. I often make this on rainy days – it just makes everything feel a little bit cozier.

Growing up, my grandma always served cinnamon rolls with a side of fresh fruit and a pitcher of orange juice. I still carry on that tradition whenever I make this casserole – it just feels right!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Want to take your Cinnamon Roll Casserole to the next level? Here are some of my top tips, gathered from years of experimenting and tweaking this recipe:

Cinnamon Roll Choice: While you can use any brand of refrigerated cinnamon rolls, I find that the Pillsbury Grands! rolls work best. They’re larger and puff up beautifully in the oven.
Don’t Overmix: When mixing the egg mixture, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a tough casserole. Just whisk until everything is combined.
Add Extra Cinnamon: If you’re a cinnamon lover like me, don’t be afraid to add an extra teaspoon or two of ground cinnamon to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can never have too much cinnamon, right?
Nut Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts. Pecans, walnuts, and almonds all work well. You can also toast the nuts before adding them to the casserole for a richer flavor.
Baking Time: Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Start checking the casserole after 30 minutes and adjust the baking time as needed. The casserole is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Glaze Consistency: If the included icing is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk to thin it out. You can also make your own homemade glaze using cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract. I often add a pinch of salt to my glaze to balance out the sweetness.

I learned the hard way that using too much milk in the egg mixture can result in a soggy casserole. Trust me on this one – stick to the recommended amount! Also, don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings. I’ve added everything from chocolate chips to chopped apples to this casserole, and it’s always a hit!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Cinnamon Roll Casserole to keep it tasting its best:

Room Temperature: You can store the casserole at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it’s best to refrigerate it. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the casserole in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Again, make sure to cover it tightly to maintain its freshness.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the casserole, it’s best to glaze it just before serving. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy or melting during storage.

To reheat the casserole, you can use the microwave, oven, or air fryer. The microwave is the quickest option, but it can sometimes make the casserole a bit soggy. The oven and air fryer will give you the best results, but they take a bit longer. Just reheat until warmed through. My kids actually ask for this the next day. I always use foil when I put it in the oven to reheat to avoid drying it out

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls (some brands are now available in the refrigerated section) and a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the egg mixture. The texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

This recipe doesn’t actually have zucchini, but if you’re thinking of adding some shredded zucchini to the casserole (which is a great idea!), you don’t need to peel it. The peel is very thin and will soften during baking. Plus, it adds a bit of extra nutrition and color!

Can I make this as muffins instead?

Absolutely! Just cut the cinnamon rolls into smaller pieces and divide them evenly among muffin tins. Fill each tin with the egg mixture and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. This is a great option for portion control and on-the-go breakfasts.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer a less sweet casserole, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Another option is to use a less sweet glaze or skip the glaze altogether.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can dust the casserole with powdered sugar or drizzle it with melted butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also serve it with a side of maple syrup or whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to Cinnamon Roll Casserole recipe! It’s easy, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser. What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms a simple can of cinnamon rolls into something truly special and memorable. It’s perfect for everything from lazy weekend breakfasts to holiday brunches. If you’re looking for other easy breakfast bakes, be sure to check out my French Toast Casserole and my Blueberry Muffin Casserole – they’re both family favorites! Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Be sure to leave a comment below and let me know if you tried it and what you think! And if you made any fun modifications. I’m always looking for new ideas and tips from you all! Also, don’t forget to rate the recipe if you enjoyed it – it helps others find this delicious recipe too!

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