Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
This Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is what breakfast dreams are made of. I still remember the first time I pulled it out of the oven. The aroma alone was enough to make everyone in the house gather in the kitchen before I even called them. Golden cinnamon swirls, creamy glaze melting down the sides, and that tender pull-apart center made it impossible to wait for it to cool.
I created this recipe out of sheer desperation on a lazy Sunday morning when I was craving cinnamon rolls but didn’t have the patience to make them from scratch. What started as a shortcut became a new favorite. Using pre-made cinnamon rolls transformed into a fluffy baked French toast base, I added eggs, cream, and a touch of vanilla. The result? A breakfast casserole so rich and indulgent, it quickly became my signature weekend treat.
Whether it’s for brunch with friends, a cozy holiday morning, or just a sweet start to your day, this recipe never fails to bring joy. It’s everything I love about cinnamon rolls and French toast in one easy, oven-baked dish.
Why You’ll Love This Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
This casserole is a delicious hybrid of two breakfast icons: the beloved cinnamon roll and classic French toast. The best part is that it comes together in minutes with minimal prep time and zero dough kneading. The gooey cinnamon-spiced center contrasts perfectly with the crispy golden edges, and once the creamy icing melts over the top, it becomes a warm, cozy masterpiece.
It’s perfect for feeding a crowd and can be made ahead for stress-free mornings. It also adapts easily to dietary needs or flavor twists, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
How to Make the Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Open two cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Place the pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish. Set aside the icing for later.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. This custard mixture will soak into the rolls and make them beautifully tender.
Step 4: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, making sure they are all well coated.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the center is set. If it starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Drizzle the reserved icing over the top and serve warm.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
If you want to switch things up, you can use flavored cinnamon rolls such as pumpkin spice or caramel pecan for seasonal flair. For a creamier texture, swap out the milk with half-and-half. Add-ins like chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini chocolate chips can bring extra crunch or richness.
To make this dish dairy-free, opt for plant-based cream and milk alternatives, and use a vegan-friendly icing. If you need a gluten-free version, simply substitute with gluten-free cinnamon rolls and double-check the other ingredients for compatibility.
Don’t be afraid to personalize the casserole with fruit, like sliced bananas or diced apples, for added natural sweetness and texture. The recipe is forgiving and easy to adapt to your taste or dietary preferences.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This casserole is best served warm, right after the icing has melted into every delicious crevice. I like to plate it with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of vanilla Greek yogurt. For a balanced breakfast, pair it with salty sides like crispy bacon or sausage links. The contrast in flavors really enhances the cinnamon sweetness.
When serving a brunch crowd, fresh fruit like berries, orange slices, or a mixed fruit salad adds a refreshing touch. A hot cup of coffee or a frothy cappuccino completes the experience. And if you’re feeling festive, a mimosa or chai latte would pair beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds or until warmed through. You can also reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
The casserole can also be frozen before or after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake or reheat as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes! Prepare everything the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning as directed.
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely. If you have the time, homemade rolls will make this dish extra special. Just make sure they’re cut and partially baked or sturdy enough to hold up to the custard.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute it with whole milk, half-and-half, or any plant-based milk for a lighter version.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?
Be sure to evenly distribute the custard and avoid over-soaking. Also, bake until the center is fully set.
Can I add toppings before baking?
Yes! Try adding chopped nuts or a brown sugar crumble on top before baking for extra texture and flavor.
Related Recipes You’ll Like
If you’re a fan of warm, comforting breakfast bakes, you’ll definitely want to check out my Amish Sunday Savior Casserole which brings together classic flavors in a savory twist. For a sweet treat that leans more into dessert territory, try the Southern Banana Cobbler — it’s like banana bread and cobbler had a delicious baby. And if you’re looking for an indulgent snack later in the day, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread will hit the spot.
Save and Share This Recipe for Later
If this Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole made your morning brighter, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite breakfast board on Pinterest! It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to every time you need a comforting, no-fuss crowd-pleaser. Feel free to share it on Facebook, send it to a friend, or bookmark it so it’s always within easy reach when brunch cravings hit. Your future self will thank you!
Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
This Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast indulgence. Combining the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the soft, custardy texture of baked French toast, this casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for any brunch or holiday morning. Made with pre-made cinnamon rolls soaked in a rich egg and cream mixture, then baked until golden and topped with sweet icing, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're entertaining guests or just treating yourself, it's a simple yet irresistible dish that's full of cozy flavor and crave-worthy texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing included)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and spread evenly in the baking dish. Reserve the icing.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon.
- Pour mixture evenly over cinnamon roll pieces.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden and set in the center. Cover with foil if it browns too fast.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes, drizzle with reserved icing, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, use plant-based milk and cream.
- Try adding fruit like apples or bananas before baking.
- Can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning.
- Freezes well: wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Best served warm with coffee or whipped cream on the side.
