Imagine waking up to the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your home. This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole combines the gooey decadence of cinnamon rolls with the custardy richness of French toast, creating a breakfast dish that’s as indulgent as it is easy to prepare.
Perfect for lazy weekends, holiday mornings, or anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
With its pillowy texture, sweet cinnamon swirls, and a luscious cream cheese glaze, this casserole takes breakfast to a whole new level. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply craving something cozy, this dish delivers. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible recipe step-by-step.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
This recipe is a delightful mashup of two breakfast classics. The cinnamon rolls soak up a rich egg mixture, transforming into a tender, custardy base, while the tops get golden and slightly crisp. It’s the best of both worlds—soft and fluffy with just the right amount of sweetness.
Plus, it’s incredibly convenient. You can prep it the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning, making it ideal for busy schedules or when you’re entertaining guests. The addition of a cream cheese glaze drizzle takes it over the top, adding a tangy sweetness that perfectly balances the warm spices.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this heavenly casserole, gather these simple ingredients. Most are pantry staples, and you can easily find the rest at your local grocery store.
For the casserole:
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (such as Pillsbury)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the cream cheese glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste—more cinnamon never hurt anyone!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
This recipe is straightforward and forgiving, even for beginner cooks. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a breakfast masterpiece in no time.
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside for later. Cut each roll into quarters—don’t worry about perfection; rustic pieces work just fine. Spread the pieces evenly in the prepared dish.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and brown sugar until smooth. The brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth, while the spices infuse every bite with cozy flavor. Pour in the melted butter and whisk again to combine.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure the rolls soak up the liquid. At this point, you can cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight for a make-ahead option, or proceed to baking right away.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. The smell of cinnamon and butter will fill your kitchen—it’s heavenly!
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the casserole bakes, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar. Set aside.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the top, followed by the cream cheese glaze. The double drizzle adds layers of sweetness that make this dish irresistible. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
For an extra-special touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking. The crunch complements the soft texture beautifully. If you prefer a less sweet version, skip the cream cheese glaze and stick with just the icing from the cinnamon roll cans.
Don’t rush the soaking process. Letting the rolls sit in the custard for at least 10-15 minutes (or overnight) ensures every piece is fully infused with flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving, based on 8 servings. Keep in mind that this is an indulgent treat, so portion sizes can vary depending on your appetite!
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Cholesterol | 135mg |
| Sodium | 620mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 25g |
| Protein | 7g |
These values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used. This dish is rich, so it’s best enjoyed as part of a balanced breakfast with fresh fruit or a light side.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a star on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides elevates the meal. Serve it with a bowl of mixed berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries add a bright, fresh contrast to the richness. A dollop of whipped cream on top can make it feel even more decadent.
For beverages, a hot cup of coffee or chai tea enhances the cinnamon flavors. If you’re hosting, a pitcher of orange juice or a mimosa adds a festive touch. Leftovers (if there are any!) reheat well in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep them moist.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Special Occasions
There’s something magical about pulling this casserole out of the oven on a holiday morning. It’s effortless enough to whip up without stress, yet feels luxurious enough for celebrations like Christmas, Easter, or a birthday brunch. The make-ahead option means you can spend more time with loved ones instead of in the kitchen.
Kids and adults alike will adore the familiar cinnamon roll flavor, elevated by the French toast twist. It’s a dish that brings people together, filling the table with smiles and satisfied sighs.
Conclusion: A Breakfast Worth Waking Up For
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is the ultimate comfort food breakfast. It blends the sticky sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the custardy goodness of French toast, topped off with a dreamy cream cheese glaze. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.
Whether you make it for a special occasion or just because, this casserole delivers warmth, flavor, and pure joy in every bite. Give it a try, and let it become a new favorite in your breakfast rotation. Your taste buds—and your family—will thank you.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it the next morning as directed, adding 5-10 extra minutes if it’s still cold from the fridge.
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Cut them into pieces and follow the recipe as written. Homemade rolls may alter the texture slightly, but it’ll still be delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Medium bowl (for glaze)
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife or scissors (to cut cinnamon rolls)
Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 2 cans 12.4 oz each refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (such as Pillsbury)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk whole or 2% works best
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional, for extra warmth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
For the cream cheese glaze:
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside for later. Cut each roll into quarters—don’t worry about perfection; rustic pieces work just fine. Spread the pieces evenly in the prepared dish.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and brown sugar until smooth. The brown sugar adds a caramel-like depth, while the spices infuse every bite with cozy flavor. Pour in the melted butter and whisk again to combine.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Press down gently with a spatula to ensure the rolls soak up the liquid. At this point, you can cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight for a make-ahead option, or proceed to baking right away.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. The smell of cinnamon and butter will fill your kitchen—it’s heavenly!
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
- While the casserole bakes, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk; if too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar. Set aside.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for 5-10 minutes. Drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the top, followed by the cream cheese glaze. The double drizzle adds layers of sweetness that make this dish irresistible. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
