This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is a warm, sweet treat that brings together soft cinnamon rolls and creamy eggs. It’s like a hug in breakfast form!
Making it is super easy—just cut up some rolls, mix with eggs and milk, bake, and drizzle with icing. Perfect for brunch, and great for feeding a crowd. Who can resist? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon Rolls: The star of this dish! Using pre-made cinnamon rolls saves time. If you prefer homemade, any type works as long as they are soft and sweet. You could also try using crescent roll dough for a flaky twist.
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for binding everything together. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, flax eggs or a vegan egg substitute can serve as a replacement. Just keep in mind the texture will vary slightly.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk makes the casserole creamy. Almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be used if you want a non-dairy alternative. Just select an unsweetened version to avoid extra sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: A must for flavor! If you don’t have it on hand, you can substitute with almond extract, but use less (about half) to keep the flavor balanced.
Ground Cinnamon: This adds extra warmth and spice. If you’d like a unique twist, try using pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice instead for added flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Casserole is Properly Soaked?
The soaking step is crucial for a flavorful casserole. After pouring the egg mixture over the cinnamon rolls, press the pieces down gently to help them absorb the liquid evenly. This makes sure every bite is delicious!
- Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the rolls time to soak up that tasty egg mixture.
- If you want a custard-like texture, consider adding more milk or eggs, adjusting the ratio to your preference.
- Check for doneness: The top should be golden brown and the center should be set but not dry.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 (8-count) cans cinnamon rolls with icing (such as Pillsbury)
- 6 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra cinnamon flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the pan
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 35-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes before you can enjoy this delightful breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick!
2. Cut the Cinnamon Rolls:
Next, open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Spread these pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish. This way, every bite will have that sweet cinnamon goodness!
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if you’re using it), and salt until everything is completely combined and looking smooth.
4. Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture over the cut-up cinnamon rolls in the baking dish. Gently press down on the pieces to help them soak up all that delicious liquid. You want every piece to be dipped in that eggy goodness!
5. Let It Sit:
Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. This gives the cinnamon rolls time to soak up the custard, ensuring a flavorful base for your casserole.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and has a lovely golden brown top.
7. Drizzle with Icing:
Once it’s baked perfectly, take it out of the oven and immediately drizzle the included cinnamon roll icing on top while it’s still warm. This will melt into the casserole and add to the flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your warm casserole right away, and if you like, add a splash of maple syrup on top. Everybody will love this cozy, sweet breakfast treat! Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! While cinnamon rolls make this dish special, you can use other types of bread, such as brioche or challah. Just adjust the soaking time accordingly, as denser bread may require a little longer to absorb the egg mixture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or put it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Prepare This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the soaking step and cover it tightly. Refrigerate overnight, then bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to compensate for starting with a cold dish.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to get creative! You can add chopped apples, pecans, or raisins for more texture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if you add a lot of extra ingredients to ensure everything is cooked through.
