Cinnamon roll casserole is the ultimate breakfast or brunch dish that combines the irresistible sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the heartiness of a comforting casserole. With just seven simple ingredients, this recipe makes it easy to transform your regular cinnamon rolls into a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish that is perfect for holidays, special mornings, or any time you crave a warm, gooey treat. In just about 45 minutes, you can have a warm, golden brown casserole with a drizzle of sweet frosting that everyone will love.
The beauty of this cinnamon roll casserole lies not only in its simplicity but also in how customizable it is. Whether you’re making it for a family breakfast, a weekend brunch with friends, or a festive holiday gathering, this dish is always a winner. Serve it fresh out of the oven with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk, and you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Quick and Easy
This casserole is simple to prepare, with only seven ingredients and minimal prep time. You don’t need any special kitchen skills to make it – just mix, pour, and bake.
2. Perfect for Breakfast or Brunch
This dish is ideal for serving a crowd, making it a great choice for family gatherings, brunch parties, or even holiday mornings. It’s the kind of comfort food that everyone will enjoy.
3. Uses Store-Bought Ingredients
You can make this casserole without spending hours in the kitchen. With just two tubes of refrigerated cinnamon rolls, you can create a warm and delicious treat in no time.
4. Customizable
You can easily modify the recipe to suit your tastes. Use different types of syrup, add nuts or fruit, or even switch up the frosting for a fun variation on this classic breakfast dish.
5. Leftovers are Great
Not only does this casserole taste amazing fresh out of the oven, but it also stores well for leftovers. It can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, making for an easy breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (2 tubes)
- Salted butter, melted
- Milk
- Pure maple syrup
- Eggs
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
Variations
- Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunchy texture.
- Fruit: Toss in fresh berries or sliced bananas to add some fruity freshness.
- Frosting: While the recipe calls for the frosting included with the cinnamon rolls, you can use cream cheese icing for a tangy twist.
- Add-ins: For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray and pour in the melted butter, spreading it to coat the bottom of the dish evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the cinnamon roll tubes and remove the rolls. Reserve the included frosting for later. Cut the cinnamon rolls into small ¾-inch pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish in a single layer.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish, making sure all pieces are soaked. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-35 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed and golden brown.
Step 5: Add Frosting and Serve
Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the reserved frosting over the top of the casserole, spreading it evenly. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use Fresh Cinnamon Rolls: Make sure to use fresh, unbaked refrigerated cinnamon rolls for the best results. Old rolls may not absorb the egg mixture as well.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving so it firms up slightly and makes it easier to slice.
- Check for Doneness: The casserole is ready when it’s puffed up and golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.
How to Serve
This cinnamon roll casserole is perfect for serving at breakfast or brunch. Pair it with fresh fruit, coffee, or a tall glass of milk. It also goes great with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a balanced meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your casserole has cooled to room temperature, place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to serve it again, simply reheat in the microwave or oven.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the casserole either before or after baking. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to one month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe with gluten-free cinnamon rolls?
Yes! You can use gluten-free cinnamon rolls to make this casserole if you have dietary restrictions.
2. Can I use pancake syrup instead of maple syrup?
Yes, pancake syrup will work, but maple syrup adds a richer flavor that enhances the casserole.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and bake it the next morning.
4. Can I use dairy-free milk in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free milk as a substitute for regular milk.
5. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before or after baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to one month.
6. Can I add fruit to this casserole?
Yes, feel free to add fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas to the casserole for extra flavor and color.
7. Is this casserole suitable for a crowd?
Yes! This recipe makes enough to serve a crowd, making it perfect for brunch or family gatherings.
8. Can I make this recipe with other types of rolls?
While cinnamon rolls work best for this recipe, you could experiment with other types of sweet rolls or even danish pastry.
9. How long does this casserole take to bake?
The casserole will take 25-35 minutes to bake, depending on your oven.
10. Can I use the frosting from the cinnamon rolls as a glaze?
Yes, you can drizzle the included frosting over the top once the casserole is baked, or you can use a homemade glaze or cream cheese icing for a different twist.
Conclusion
This easy cinnamon roll casserole is a simple yet indulgent breakfast treat that can be made in no time with just seven ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just looking to treat yourself and your family to something sweet, this casserole is the perfect choice. With its golden-brown, gooey center and sweet frosting drizzle, it’s sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy!
PrintEasy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35-45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a warm, gooey breakfast treat made with cinnamon rolls, maple syrup, and eggs, all baked to perfection and topped with frosting. With just 7 ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a simple, indulgent dish the whole family will love!
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls
- 1/4 cup salted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 4 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the topping:
- Reserved frosting (from cinnamon rolls)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Pour the melted butter into the dish.
- Remove the cinnamon rolls from the package, reserving the frosting for later. Cut the cinnamon rolls into 3/4 inch pieces and place them in the prepared baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour this mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes, then drizzle the frosting over the top and serve.
Notes
- Cinnamon Rolls: Any store-bought, canned cinnamon rolls that are refrigerated and unbaked will work for this recipe.
- Milk: You can use any type of milk or cream, even non-dairy alternatives.
- Maple Syrup: If you don’t have maple syrup, honey or brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American