This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is a warm, gooey treat that combines soft bread with sweet cinnamon rolls. It’s easy to make and perfect for breakfast or brunch!
I love how you can prepare it the night before. Just pop it in the oven in the morning and enjoy that delicious smell filling the kitchen. What’s better than cinnamon rolls for breakfast? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon Rolls: Using store-bought cinnamon rolls makes this recipe super easy. If you want a homemade touch, you could use your favorite cinnamon roll dough instead, though it will involve a bit more effort!
Eggs: Eggs help bind the casserole and add richness. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you might try using flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg) or commercial egg replacers.
Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture, but you could use almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk. Just make sure they are unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced.
Ground Cinnamon: This ingredient is optional, but I really recommend it. It enhances the overall cinnamon flavor of the dish. If you want something different, a pinch of nutmeg also works well!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Baked?
Baking the casserole correctly is key! You want it to be puffed and golden without being soggy. Here are some tips:
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated; this helps with rising.
- Check for doneness around the 35-minute mark. It should be firm in the center.
- If the top is browning too fast, you can cover it with foil to prevent burning.
When you let it cool for a few minutes before serving, it helps the casserole set up a bit more. Serve warm for the best experience!
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 can (12-16 oz) canned cinnamon rolls with icing (8 count)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for extra cinnamon flavor)
For Serving:
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
- Fresh raspberries or other fruit, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. So in total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a baking dish—an 8×8 inch casserole dish works great! Grease it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:
Open the can of cinnamon rolls and carefully cut each roll into quarters. This step helps them soak up all the egg mixture later. Evenly distribute the quartered rolls in the greased casserole dish.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, and the ground cinnamon (if using). Mix until everything is fully combined for a smooth texture.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Now, pour that creamy egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in your casserole dish. Don’t forget to press down a little so the rolls soak up that delicious mixture.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for about 35-40 minutes. It’s done when it’s puffed up, golden brown on top, and firm in the center. If it’s browning too fast, you can cover it lightly with aluminum foil.
6. Add the Icing:
Once the casserole is out of the oven, drizzle the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls over the warm dish. This will melt into all those delicious nooks and crannies!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the casserole warm, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup and fresh fruit like raspberries if you want a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every bite of this sweet breakfast treat!
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave. Perfect for indulgent mornings or special occasions!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While cinnamon rolls are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute with any sweet bread like Brioche or challah. Just make sure it’s not too dry, as you want it to absorb the egg mixture nicely.
Can I Prepare This the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just pop it in the oven, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s still cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for Eggs?
If you’re looking for a vegan or egg-free option, you can use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) or a commercial egg replacer. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.