If you’re dreaming of an ultra-comforting, crowd-pleasing breakfast that tastes like a bakery treat but’s stunningly easy, look no further than Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole. Imagine all the gooey, pillowy cinnamon roll goodness reimagined as a baked casserole—golden on top, lusciously soft inside, and finished with sweet icing drizzled over every bite. With a handful of kitchen staples and just ten minutes of prep, this recipe transforms a brunch classic into something even more magical and shareable. Whether you’re treating family or impressing brunch guests, Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole promises warm, gooey nostalgia in every forkful!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole lies in its simplicity: every ingredient here pulls double duty, adding not just flavor but irresistible texture and color. From soft canned cinnamon rolls to rich cream and fragrant vanilla, each component layers on deliciousness and gives the casserole its trademark bakery-fresh charm.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (2 cans, 12.4 oz each): The heart of the casserole, these provide fluffy layers and a gooey cinnamon swirl in every bite.
- Large eggs (4): Eggs bind everything together, creating that classic custard-like texture that makes this dish so satisfying.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds luxurious richness and moisture, guaranteeing a soft, melt-in-your-mouth casserole.
- Maple syrup (1/4 cup): Brings a hint of toasty sweetness and complexity you just can’t get from sugar alone.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tbsp): Extra cinnamon gives each serving a fragrant, bakery-style aroma and a cozy, warming flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enriches and rounds out the flavor, making the casserole truly reminiscent of from-scratch cinnamon rolls.
- Chopped pecans (1/4 cup, optional): For a bit of crunch and nutty contrast, pecans are the perfect finishing touch (totally optional, but highly recommended!).
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures a quick release and easy cleanup — no one wants to lose a single gooey edge!
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Dish and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to give your casserole the perfect bake. Give your 9×13-inch baking dish a generous coating of nonstick spray to keep every golden piece intact for easy serving. A little prep now means no sticking later — trust me, it’s worth it!
Step 2: Quarter the Cinnamon Rolls
Open up both cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and set aside the included icing packets for later. Cut each roll into four even pieces. This makes for perfect bite-sized layers that soak up the custard mixture while baking. Scatter all the pieces evenly over the bottom of your prepared dish, ensuring every inch is filled.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This fragrant custard will seep into every nook of the cinnamon rolls, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all adore in Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Pour the eggy mixture evenly over the scattered cinnamon roll pieces, making sure everything gets a good soaking. If you’re adding pecans, sprinkle them generously over the top — their toasty crunch is the perfect surprise in every slice!
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your casserole dish into the oven and let it bake for 35–40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly tender. The aroma will fill your kitchen with that classic cinnamon roll scent — pure joy!
Step 6: Finish with Icing and Serve Warm
Take the casserole out and let it cool slightly — just enough so the icing melts but doesn’t completely disappear. Drizzle the reserved icing over the warm casserole, letting it cascade into all the cracks and crevices. Now it’s ready to slice, serve, and savor every gooey bite!
How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Garnishes
A little extra flourish makes each serving special. Try an extra drizzle of maple syrup, a handful of fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, a few more toasted pecans on top add both elegance and crunch.
Side Dishes
Keep things playful and balanced by serving Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole alongside fresh fruit salad, creamy Greek yogurt, or crispy bacon for a salty-sweet combo. It’s also perfect with a big pot of coffee or mugs of hot chocolate—in short, anything that makes breakfast feel like a celebration!
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your casserole into squares and serve on a pretty platter dusted with a touch of cinnamon or confectioners’ sugar. For brunch buffets, use muffin cups for easy grab-and-go portions. Or, give each guest their own drizzle of icing to personalize every bite—breakfast fun for everyone!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Just cover the dish tightly or transfer slices to an airtight container and refrigerate as soon as everyone’s enjoyed their fill.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the cooled casserole (without icing) securely in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to reheat, and hold off on the icing until the casserole is warmed—this way, it stays glossy and inviting.
Reheating
A quick zap in the microwave brings individual slices back to life—try 30–60 seconds depending on your microwave’s power. For larger portions, pop the casserole (uncovered) in a 325°F oven for about 10–15 minutes until heated through. Don’t forget to drizzle with icing after reheating for fresh-from-the-oven appeal!
FAQs
Can I prepare Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole the night before?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything (except the icing) the evening before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, just let the casserole sit out while the oven preheats, then bake as directed. It’s the perfect make-ahead option for busy mornings or entertaining guests.
Do I have to use heavy cream or can I substitute something else?
If you want to lighten things up, half-and-half or even whole milk works well, but heavy cream truly gives the most decadent, custardy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try coconut cream for a subtle twist!
Is it possible to make Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole without nuts?
Definitely. Chopped pecans are totally optional and can be omitted for a nut-free version that’s still every bit as delicious and crowd-friendly.
Can I add fruit to the casserole itself?
You sure can! Chopped apples, pears, or even blueberries tucked amongst the cinnamon roll pieces add a fruity burst that pairs beautifully with the cozy flavors. Just don’t overload so your casserole stays firm.
What if my cinnamon rolls come with extra icing?
Lucky you! Double up on the icing drizzle for even more gooey goodness, or reserve some for guests to add on individually at the table. Sometimes, more is more when it comes to Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole!
Final Thoughts
There’s something about this casserole that just makes everyone smile—cozy, comforting, and so easy to make, Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is bound to become your go-to treat for leisurely weekends and special mornings. Give it a try soon, and don’t be surprised when it becomes the most-requested dish in your kitchen. Happy baking!
Print
Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a delicious twist on classic cinnamon rolls, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Casserole:
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Prepare the rolls: Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and spread them in the baking dish.
- Mix the custard: Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, maple syrup, cinnamon, and vanilla. Pour over the cinnamon rolls.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the casserole if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and set.
- Finish: Let cool slightly, then drizzle with included icing before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or add nutmeg.
- Enjoy with fresh fruit or extra maple syrup for serving.
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