There’s nothing quite like the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air, mingling with the sweet scent of baked bread. Imagine waking up to a warm, gooey cinnamon roll french toast casserole that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. The anticipation builds as you envision digging into layers of soft, fluffy bread soaked in a luscious custard, topped with a rich cream cheese glaze.
This dish isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience. Picture gathering your loved ones around the table on a lazy Sunday morning, laughter echoing as you share stories while savoring each bite. It’s perfect for holidays or brunch gatherings, making every occasion feel special and delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cinnamon roll french toast casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones
- Its flavor profile is an irresistible blend of sweet and spiced goodness
- The visual appeal is stunning, with swirls of gooey cinnamon and creamy frosting creating an eye-catching centerpiece
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for any meal or dessert craving!
I remember the first time I made this dish; my family couldn’t stop raving about it. They were practically licking their plates clean!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Cinnamon Rolls: Use store-bought cinnamon rolls for convenience; they provide the base flavor and texture that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Eggs: Fresh eggs help create a rich custard that binds everything together beautifully.
Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; you can substitute almond or oat milk if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
Brown Sugar: This adds a deep caramel flavor that perfectly complements the cinnamon.
Cream Cheese: A must for the glaze; it makes everything richer and more decadent.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon enhances the overall flavor profile and brings warmth to each bite.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the sweetness and aroma of the casserole.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make cinnamon roll french toast casserole
Prepare Your Baking Dish: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray for easy cleanup later.
Cut Up Cinnamon Rolls: Open the package of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. This allows for even soaking and ensures each piece gets coated in that heavenly custard mixture.
Create the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined. The mixture should look smooth and slightly frothy.
Add Cinnamon Rolls to Custard: Gently fold in the cut cinnamon rolls into your custard mixture until they’re well coated. Let them soak for about 10 minutes while you prepare for baking.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and puffy. You’ll know it’s done when it springs back when touched gently.
Create Cream Cheese Glaze: While baking, whip together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a little milk until smooth and creamy. Drizzle this over your warm casserole right before serving for that extra touch of indulgence.
Now you’re ready to dig in! Just imagine serving this delightful casserole at brunch or during holiday gatherings—everyone will be asking for seconds!
You Must Know
- This cinnamon roll french toast casserole is a breakfast game-changer
- It combines the best of both worlds, with gooey cinnamon rolls and fluffy French toast
- The aroma fills your kitchen, making it impossible to resist digging in
- Perfect for brunch gatherings or lazy Sunday mornings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the casserole the night before to let the flavors meld. Bake until golden brown and serve warm with maple syrup for the ultimate indulgence.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add fresh berries or nuts to the mixture for extra flavor and texture. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top elevates the dish’s presentation beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect results, use day-old cinnamon rolls; they absorb flavors better and won’t turn mushy
- Keep a close eye while baking; you want a golden top without overcooking
- Serve with whipped cream for an indulgent treat that your guests will adore!
Sometimes I catch myself reminiscing about that one brunch where everyone devoured this casserole in seconds and begged for seconds. Who knew breakfast could spark such joy?
FAQ
Can I use frozen cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cinnamon rolls work well; just thaw and prepare as directed.
How do I make this casserole ahead of time?
Prepare it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate before baking in the morning.
Is there a gluten-free option available?
Absolutely! Substitute gluten-free cinnamon rolls for a delicious alternative everyone can enjoy.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Cinnamon roll french toast casserole is the ultimate brunch dish, blending the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls with the fluffy texture of French toast. Perfect for family gatherings or lazy weekend mornings, this delightful casserole is irresistibly rich and sweet, topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze. Imagine the warm aroma of cinnamon filling your kitchen as you dig into layers of soft bread soaked in a creamy custard. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings loved ones together around the table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 (12 oz) packages of store-bought cinnamon rolls
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or dairy-free substitute)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
- Gently fold in the cut cinnamon rolls until fully coated. Let soak for 10 minutes.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
- For the glaze, mix softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth; drizzle over warm casserole before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (125g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: - Prepare the casserole the night before for enhanced flavor; simply cover and refrigerate before baking in the morning. - Add fresh berries or nuts for extra flavor and crunch; dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
