Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole

This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole brings together everything I love about cozy mornings and festive brunches It is gooey rich and always a showstopper when family comes to visit The creamy custard soaks into fluffy bites of cinnamon roll and the cascade of icing makes it irresistibly sweet

I started baking this casserole when my kids wanted cinnamon rolls but we also craved French toast It is now our go to for special mornings and every holiday breakfast

Ingredients

• Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: These give you that signature swirl and soft center I always look for rolls with real butter and spice in the dough
• Large eggs: The base for a rich custard Opt for fresh free range eggs for best flavor
• Whole milk: Adds creamy body and helps soak the rolls Choose milk with a higher butterfat for best results
• Heavy cream: Brings extra richness A little goes a long way
• Pure vanilla extract: Highlights the flavors and adds warmth Use a real extract for depth
• Ground cinnamon: Doubles the cozy spice Always use fresh aromatic cinnamon
• Granulated sugar: Gives a gentle sweetness and helps create a tender texture Look for fine grain sugar to blend easily
• Unsalted butter: Melted makes the topping lush and golden Always pick high quality creamy butter
• Brown sugar: Boosts caramel flavor in the topping Choose dark or light molasses rich brown sugar
• Reserved icing: Poured over the top for a sweeter finish

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Dish:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F or 175°C Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray so nothing sticks and clean up stays easy

Prep the Cinnamon Rolls:

Open the cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside Using a sharp knife cut each roll into quarters Sprinkle these bite sized pieces evenly in the prepared dish spreading them to cover the base

Mix the Custard:

In a large mixing bowl whisk together the eggs whole milk heavy cream vanilla ground cinnamon and granulated sugar Whisk until you see no streaks and everything is well combined This creates a velvety pourable custard

Soak the Rolls:

Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the dish Use the back of a spoon or your hands to gently press down making sure every piece gets a good soak This ensures a creamy interior and prevents dryness

Make and Add the Topping:

Melt the unsalted butter and add the brown sugar and ground cinnamon Whisk together until the sugar is mostly dissolved and the mixture is glossy With a spoon drizzle this topping all over the casserole so each bite gets a touch of sticky sweetness

Bake the Casserole:

Slide the dish onto your oven’s center rack Bake for 35 to 40 minutes The top should be golden and the center just barely set Test by gently shaking the dish or inserting a knife in the middle It should come out mostly clean

Finish With Icing:

Allow the casserole to cool for several minutes then drizzle the reserved icing over the top in zigzags or swirls so every bite gets icing Serve warm for the gooiest texture

Pin

The brown sugar cinnamon topping is my absolute favorite It reminds me of baking with my grandmother who always sprinkled extra brown sugar on her coffee cakes When the aroma fills my kitchen I know it is going to be a good day

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool fully before covering and refrigerating Use an airtight container and store for up to two days To reheat add a splash of milk and warm in the oven or microwave to keep it moist The casserole also makes a great midnight snack when enjoyed cold

Ingredient Substitutions

Try swapping whole milk for oat or almond milk if you need it dairy free Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a plant based richness For extra flavor fold in diced apples or sprinkle with chopped nuts before baking and top with maple syrup instead of the icing for less sweetness

Serving Suggestions

Spoon onto plates while piping hot and serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream Pair with crispy bacon or sausage for a savory touch A big pot of coffee or a creamy latte makes the perfect brunch pairing Leftovers are extra tasty with a side of sliced bananas

Cultural Context

Cinnamon rolls and French toast are American comfort classics Combining them makes a dish that feels nostalgic but special enough for holidays and gatherings In our house casseroles like this show up at Christmas Thanksgiving and sleepy snow days

Seasonal Adaptations

Mix diced pears or apples into the casserole for a fall and winter feel Add a small handful of cranberries over the rolls before baking for a tart burst in winter Swirl in softened cream cheese for a cheesecake like twist that is popular at Easter brunches

Success Stories

My teens love making this with their friends for sleepovers and family has started requesting it in advance for birthdays I once made a double batch for a baby shower and not a single bite was left on the table It consistently wins raves from people who claim they are not dessert for breakfast fans

Freezer Meal Conversion

Bake the casserole ahead let it cool and wrap tightly in plastic and foil Freeze up to one month To serve thaw overnight in the refrigerator then reheat covered with foil at 325°F until hot Drizzle with fresh icing before serving for best look and taste

Pin

Serve warm for the gooiest texture and enjoy this delightful brunch treat

Recipe Q&A

→ What type of cinnamon rolls should I use?

Refrigerated store-bought cinnamon rolls work best, as they hold their shape and integrate easily with the custard mixture.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake the night before, refrigerate, and bake in the morning for fresh results.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Are there any nut-free options?

Absolutely! Nuts are optional. Skip them for a nut-free casserole, but always check ingredient labels for allergens.

→ Can I add fruit to this breakfast bake?

Yes, fresh berries or diced apples make a delicious addition—simply scatter them over before baking.