This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is a sweet and cozy breakfast treat! It combines fluffy cinnamon rolls with creamy egg mixture, making each bite deliciously warm and comforting.
Honestly, who can resist that warm cinnamon smell wafting through the kitchen? I love serving it with a drizzle of icing on top—quick and oh-so tasty!
What I really enjoy about this casserole is how much easier it is than flipping individual pancakes. Just pop it in the oven and relax while it bakes—perfect for lazy mornings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon Rolls: The refrigerated cinnamon rolls are key here for that classic flavor. If you can’t find them, you could also use homemade cinnamon roll dough or even soft crescent rolls for a different twist.
Eggs: Large eggs create the rich custard base. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, try using a combination of 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce and a tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with water for each egg.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk works great for creaminess. If you prefer non-dairy options, almond milk or oat milk can easily be substituted without losing too much flavor!
Ground Cinnamon: This spice really enhances the cinnamon flavor. You can try using pumpkin pie spice or allspice if you want to mix things up.
How Do You Ensure the Casserole is Perfectly Soaked?
To get the best results, it’s important that the cinnamon rolls soak up the egg mixture properly. Here’s how to do it:
- After pouring the egg mixture over the cinnamon rolls, use a spatula to gently press down on the pieces. This helps them absorb the liquid.
- Let it sit for about 10 minutes before baking. This soaking step makes sure every bite is moist and flavorful.
- If you have time, you can prepare it the night before and let it chill in the fridge. Just bake it in the morning! This also helps the flavors meld together nicely.
Keep an eye on it while baking; if it’s golden and puffed, it’s ready to come out. Enjoy!
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (16 oz) package refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (about 8 rolls)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or 2% milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to bake, making it a quick and easy breakfast option. You’ll spend only 10 minutes assembling it, and then it bakes while you enjoy your morning coffee!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grab a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar sized casserole pan and grease it lightly to prevent any sticking.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:
Open your package of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Spread these little pieces evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish. Make sure to leave some space between them so they bake up fluffy!
3. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, crack the eggs and mix them with the milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Using a whisk, mix until everything is well combined and you see a uniform color. This will be the magic that makes your casserole custardy and delicious!
4. Pour the Mixture:
Now, pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press the pieces down into the egg mixture to help them soak up that yummy custard.
5. Let It Soak:
Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes. This is an important step that helps the cinnamon rolls absorb all that delicious egg mixture.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Put the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed up and slightly golden on top. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-baking!
7. Drizzle Icing:
As soon as you pull the casserole out of the oven, drizzle the included icing over it while it’s warm. This step takes it from good to absolutely scrumptious!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the casserole into squares and serve warm. If you’re feeling fancy, add a drizzle of maple syrup on top for extra sweetness. Enjoy this delightful breakfast treat!
This casserole is perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend breakfast with family. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Cinnamon Rolls?
Yes! While the recipe calls for the classic refrigerated cinnamon rolls, you can experiment with flavored varieties like caramel or cream cheese cinnamon rolls. Just keep in mind that the flavor of your casserole will change accordingly.
Can I Prepare This Recipe the Night Before?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, preheat your oven and bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for about 30-45 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Casserole?
Yes, feel free to customize your casserole! You can add fresh fruit like blueberries or sliced bananas, nuts, or even chocolate chips to the mixture before baking for extra flavor and texture!
