Save This cinnamon roll french toast bake transforms ordinary refrigerated cinnamon rolls into an extraordinary breakfast casserole that will have everyone rushing to the table. The fluffy cinnamon roll pieces soak up a rich vanilla custard before being baked to golden perfection and drizzled with cream cheese icing, creating the ultimate morning indulgence that feels special but requires minimal effort.
I first created this recipe when hosting a surprise birthday brunch for my sister. The moment it came out of the oven, the heavenly aroma of warm cinnamon filled the kitchen, and it has become our mandatory holiday morning tradition ever since.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: Two standard 8count cans provide the perfect base while saving significant prep time compared to making cinnamon rolls from scratch
- Large eggs: Four eggs create the custard base that transforms this from simple cinnamon rolls to a luxurious french toast texture
- Whole milk: Adds richness to the custard mixture while helping to create that classic french toast flavor
- Heavy cream: The fat content creates an incredibly silky custard that keeps the casserole moist throughout
- Vanilla extract: Use pure rather than imitation for the best warm flavor that complements the cinnamon
- Ground cinnamon: Enhances the cinnamon flavor already in the rolls for a more pronounced spice profile
- Granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the custard without making the dish overly sweet
- Unsalted butter: Adds a beautiful golden color to the top and creates delicious crispy edges
- Chopped pecans or walnuts: Optional but highly recommended for adding texture contrast and nutty flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish:
- Thoroughly grease your 9x13inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, ensuring you cover the corners and sides well. This prevents any sticking and makes serving much easier.
- Cut the cinnamon rolls:
- Open both cans of cinnamon rolls and save the icing packets for later. Using a sharp knife, cut each roll into quarters. This size is perfect as larger pieces stay too doughy in the center while smaller pieces can dry out during baking.
- Arrange in baking dish:
- Distribute the cinnamon roll quarters evenly throughout the baking dish, making sure there are no large gaps but avoiding pressing them too tightly together. This allows the custard to flow around each piece.
- Create the custard mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until completely combined and slightly frothy. Take your time with this step to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated with no streaks.
- Soak the cinnamon rolls:
- Pour the custard mixture slowly and evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, using a spatula to ensure all pieces are moistened. Gently press down on the rolls to help them absorb the liquid.
- Add finishing touches:
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire casserole, which will create delicious crispy edges. If using nuts, sprinkle them across the top for added texture and flavor.
- Bake to perfection:
- Place in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. The casserole is done when the center is set and no longer jiggly, and the top is beautifully golden brown. If you notice excessive browning before its fully cooked, loosely cover with foil.
- Rest before serving:
- Allow the bake to rest for 10 minutes after removing from the oven. This resting period allows the custard to set further and makes serving much neater.
- Add the icing:
- Warm the reserved icing packets in the microwave for just 10 seconds until pourable but not hot. Drizzle generously over the warm casserole in a decorative pattern before serving.
Save The secret to this recipes success is finding the perfect balance between soaking time and texture. I discovered through multiple test batches that refrigerated cinnamon rolls actually work better than homemade for this recipe because their slightly denser texture holds up beautifully to the custard without becoming soggy. My family now requests this for every special occasion breakfast, and I love that I can prep it while coffee is brewing.
Make-Ahead Instructions
This cinnamon roll french toast bake is the perfect candidate for overnight preparation. To make ahead, complete all steps through pouring the custard over the cinnamon roll pieces, but do not add the melted butter or nuts yet. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, remove from refrigerator and let stand at room temperature for 20 minutes while your oven preheats. Add the melted butter and nuts just before baking, and you may need to add 5 to 7 minutes to the baking time since youre starting with cold ingredients. This make ahead option is particularly wonderful for holiday mornings when you want to minimize kitchen time and maximize family time.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover cinnamon roll french toast bake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture remains surprisingly good even after refrigeration. To reheat individual portions, microwave for 30 to 45 seconds until just warmed through. For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes. I actually find that a quick 10 seconds in the microwave followed by a minute in a toaster oven gives the best results, maintaining moisture while restoring some of the original crispy edges. Avoid overheating as this can dry out the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This decadent breakfast casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with complementary sides for a complete brunch spread. Serve alongside a bowl of fresh berries to add brightness and cut through the richness. A side of crispy bacon or breakfast sausage provides a savory counterpoint that balances the sweetness perfectly. For beverages, offer both coffee and a selection of juices. I like to set up a simple breakfast bar with the casserole as the centerpiece, surrounded by toppings like maple syrup, additional warmed cream cheese icing, fresh fruit, and whipped cream, allowing guests to customize their portions to their preference.
Dietary Adaptations
While this recipe is inherently indulgent, several adaptations can accommodate different dietary needs. For a dairy free version, substitute plant based milk for the whole milk, coconut cream for the heavy cream, and use dairy free cinnamon rolls. Many major brands now offer dairy free varieties in the refrigerated section. For those watching sugar intake, look for reduced sugar cinnamon roll options and cut the added sugar in the custard by half. The vanilla and cinnamon will still provide plenty of flavor. Those with nut allergies can simply omit the nuts or substitute with sunflower seeds for a similar textural element without the allergen concern.
Save This cinnamon roll french toast bake is a delightful way to elevate a simple breakfast. Its rich, sweet, and satisfying flavors make it perfect for special occasions or a weekend treat.