This comforting breakfast bake combines soft cinnamon roll pieces soaked in a smooth custard of eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, and cinnamon. Topped with melted butter and maple syrup, baked to a golden puff, and finished with a sweet icing glaze, it offers a perfect balance of gooey and sweet. Ideal for holiday mornings or lazy brunches, this dish invites warm, rich flavors that blend seamlessly for a satisfying treat.
I still remember the first time I discovered cinnamon roll casserole—early one chilly morning when I wanted something cozy but easy. The aroma filled the house and promised comfort like a warm hug on a lazy weekend.
One time, unexpected guests arrived just as I was prepping this dish; it pulled double duty as a quick treat and an impressive brunch centerpiece that won everyone over.
Ingredients
- Cinnamon Rolls: I always grab refrigerated rolls with icing for convenience and consistent flavor.
- Eggs: Large eggs bring richness to the custard, binding everything together perfectly.
- Whole Milk and Heavy Cream: I like how the cream adds extra silkiness without overpowering the cinnamon notes.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla unlocks that warm aroma that pairs beautifully here.
- Ground Cinnamon: I keep it just right for the best sweet-spicy balance.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the custard base.
- Unsalted Butter and Maple Syrup: Melted butter adds depth while maple syrup drizzles in natural sweetness.
- Reserved Icing: This finishing touch turns the bake into a luscious glaze that everyone loves.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your baking dish to keep that cinnamon goodness from sticking.
- Cut and Scatter:
- Open the cinnamon roll cans, set aside their icing, then quarter the rolls and spread them evenly in the dish. The scent already starts to tease your senses here.
- Whisk Up the Custard:
- Combine eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until smooth—watch as the flecks of cinnamon swirl invitingly.
- Pour and Press:
- Drizzle the custard over the cinnamon pieces and press gently to coat every nook with creamy richness.
- Top It Off:
- Drizzle melted butter and maple syrup for an irresistible caramelized finish as it bakes.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Pop it in the oven for 30 to 35 minutes until it’s puffed up, golden, and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Rest and Glaze:
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before drizzling the reserved icing—this is when it really transforms into something special.
This dish quickly became our go-to comfort breakfast; I remember serving it during last year’s holiday morning, surrounded by family smiles and full hearts.
Keeping It Fresh
Storing leftovers is a breeze—cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep that gooey texture intact.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Try topping servings with fresh berries or a light dusting of powdered sugar to add freshness and a hint of tartness that cuts through the sweetness.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
Once, when a last-minute brunch invitation came through, this casserole was my quick rescue that had everyone asking for the recipe
- Always keep a can of cinnamon rolls handy in your fridge
- Don’t forget to set aside the icing—it’s magic later
- Feel free to swap maple syrup for honey if that’s what you have
Thanks for sharing this kitchen moment with me—may your mornings be just a little sweeter and cozier from here on out.