This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is a warm and cozy breakfast treat. It’s made with fluffy cinnamon rolls baked in a creamy egg mixture that makes it super tasty!
You can prepare it the night before, making morning a breeze. Just pop it in the oven, and soon your home will smell heavenly! Who doesn’t love a sweet breakfast? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon Rolls: The star of this dish is, of course, the cinnamon rolls! Using a store-bought can makes it super convenient. If you want a homemade touch, you can make your own cinnamon rolls instead.
Eggs: Eggs bind everything together. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg or some ground flaxseed mixed with water: 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons water equals 1 egg.
Milk: Whole or 2% milk works best for creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just make sure to choose an unsweetened kind.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a lovely flavor. You can substitute it with almond extract for a different twist—or leave it out if you don’t have any!
Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon enhances the flavor profile. If you want to amp it up, mix in some nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal touch.
How Do You Make Sure Your Casserole Is Perfectly Cooked?
To achieve a beautifully baked casserole, the key is to monitor the baking time closely. Here are essential tips:
- Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark. The casserole should be puffed and golden.
- Insert a knife in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Let it cool for about 5 minutes for easier slicing and to prevent burns.
Enjoying this dish is all about sharing and making memories, so don’t hesitate to serve it on special occasions or weekend breakfasts. 😊
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Casserole:
- 1 can (12 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (about 8 rolls)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish
For Serving:
- Maple syrup or additional icing (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. Allow an additional 5 minutes to cool before serving. So, you’re looking at around 1 hour in total from start to finish, including baking time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and grease it with butter or non-stick spray to keep your casserole from sticking.
2. Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls:
Next, open the can of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters or halves. This makes it easier to soak up the egg mixture! Place the cut pieces evenly in the greased baking dish. Try to spread them out nicely!
3. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, crack in the 4 large eggs. Add in the milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s completely mixed—smooth and creamy is the goal!
4. Pour and Soak:
Now it’s time to pour that tasty egg mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Use a spatula or spoon to gently press down on the rolls, making sure they soak up all that yummy mixture.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is puffed up, golden brown on the edges, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let It Cool:
When done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial to make slicing easier and safer!
7. Drizzle and Serve:
Finally, drizzle the icing included with your cinnamon rolls over the warm casserole. If you like, serve it alongside warm maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness!
8. Cut and Enjoy:
Slice the casserole into squares, serve it warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of cinnamon, creamy goodness, and that lovely icing. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy brunch with friends and family!
Enjoy this rich, sweet cinnamon roll French toast casserole that’s perfect for a comforting meal! 😊
Can I Use Other Types of Bread for This Casserole?
Absolutely! While the refrigerated cinnamon rolls are delicious, you can also use other breads like challah or brioche for a different flavor. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even soaking and baking.
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Simply assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. In the morning, bake it straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or oven. You might want to add a splash of milk to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.