The Ultimate Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe: Perfect for Brunch or Dessert

Are you searching for a breakfast recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimum effort? Look no further than the glorious Cinnamon Roll Casserole. This dish takes the convenience of store-bought refrigerated cinnamon rolls and elevates them into a decadent, gooey, bread pudding-style bake. Forget painstakingly rolling dough and waiting for yeast; this recipe transforms two cans of dough into a magnificent, crowd-pleasing masterpiece in under an hour. It is the definition of comfort food, making it the ideal centerpiece for holiday brunches, weekend gatherings, or simply when you need a little sweet warmth to start your day. Prepare to be utterly captivated by the rich, spiced custard and the irresistible texture of this baked delight.

The beauty of the Cinnamon Roll Casserole lies in its simplicity. We take the pre-cut rolls, dice them into bite-sized chunks, and bathe them in a luscious custard mixture seasoned with warm vanilla, potent cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. When baked, the custard sets around the edges of the sweet bread, creating crispy tops while leaving the insides deliciously gooey. To finish it off, we enhance the store-bought icing packets with a touch of powdered sugar and cream, resulting in a smooth, thick glaze that drizzles perfectly over the hot, spiced bake. If you love the classic flavor of cinnamon rolls but want a faster, richer, and more communal way to enjoy them, this Cinnamon Roll Casserole is your new best friend.

Why This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is a Must-Try (The Gooey Factor)

There are countless reasons why this particular Cinnamon Roll Casserole stands head and shoulders above other breakfast bakes. This recipe is specifically formulated to maximize the “gooey factor,” ensuring every bite is moist, tender, and saturated with flavor not dry or overly bready.

Unbeatable Convenience and Speed

In today’s busy world, finding time to create elaborate brunch spreads can be challenging. This recipe solves that problem instantly. By using ready-made refrigerated dough, you bypass the entire process of measuring flour, kneading, and proofing yeast. From start to finish including prep, assembly, and baking you can have a fresh, hot, stunning dessert or breakfast on the table in about 45 minutes. This makes it a perfect last-minute addition to any menu or a wonderful surprise for a lazy Sunday morning. The mere 15 minutes of prep time means less scrubbing and more savoring.

The Perfect Marriage of Bread Pudding and Cinnamon Rolls

What truly distinguishes this Cinnamon Roll Casserole is the addition of the egg and cream-based custard. Traditional baked cinnamon rolls rely on butter and steam to stay moist. Here, the rolls are cut and fully submerged in a rich liquid containing eggs, heavy cream, and both granulated and brown sugars. This transforms the resulting bake into something akin to the most luxurious bread pudding you’ve ever tasted, but with the familiar, beloved spiral flavor of cinnamon rolls baked right in. The custard caramelizes the brown sugar slightly on the bottom, creating a wonderfully chewy crust, while ensuring the bread pieces remain soft and custardy inside.

Crowd-Pleaser Guaranteed

Whether you are hosting holiday guests, feeding hungry teenagers, or bringing a dish to a potluck, the Cinnamon Roll Casserole is always a hit. It is easily scaled for larger gatherings (just use a deeper roasting pan and adjust baking time) and universally appealing. Who can resist the smell of warm cinnamon and sugar fresh out of the oven, topped with a cascade of sweet, boosted vanilla glaze? Plus, serving a casserole is far easier than serving individual rolls; guests can simply scoop their desired portion, and the presentation remains delightfully rustic. It truly is the ultimate expression of comfort and joy in breakfast form. To further explore delicious, easy-to-prep sweet treats, you might enjoy our recipe for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cinnamon Rolls, which offers another take on spiced, convenient baking.

Why You Should Try This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Today

Beyond the fundamental aspects of speed and flavor, this recipe offers several advantages that make it essential for your recipe rotation. It is a fantastic template for creativity, an excellent way to impress with minimal effort, and surprisingly adaptable to various dietary needs or flavor cravings.

A Blank Canvas for Flavor Customization

While the base recipe for this Cinnamon Roll Casserole is utterly perfect on its own, its structure allows for incredible customization. Want a fall flavor profile? Toss in diced apples or a handful of toasted pecans before baking. Looking for a burst of summer freshness? Fold in fresh blueberries or raspberries. The custard mixture holds these additions beautifully, preventing them from sinking entirely to the bottom and ensuring even distribution of flavor. Imagine adding chocolate chips a combination guaranteed to delight any chocoholic. This versatility ensures that your Cinnamon Roll Casserole never gets boring, adapting seamlessly from season to season.

The Secret Weapon for Overnight Prep

For those times when the morning schedule is tight like Christmas morning or a busy Sunday before church this recipe can be partially prepped the night before. You can complete steps 1 through 5 (preparing the rolls, making the custard, and soaking the mixture) right up until the point of baking. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, pull it out while the oven preheats, add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the total bake time (since it’s starting cold), and enjoy a fresh-baked Cinnamon Roll Casserole without lifting a finger at dawn. This makes it an indispensable tool for stress-free hosting.

Superior Texture and Moistness

Standard baked rolls can sometimes be flaky and dry, especially after cooling. The soaking process in this Cinnamon Roll Casserole recipe fundamentally alters the texture of the bread pieces. They soak up the rich, sweet liquid, resulting in a final product that is incredibly moist and tender throughout the entire pan. The edges brown nicely and offer a slight chew, but the interior remains pillow-soft, reminiscent of the best brioche soaked in créme anglaise. This moistness also means the casserole reheats incredibly well, maintaining its integrity and flavor better than standalone baked goods. If you appreciate the simplicity and comforting warmth of a good baked dish, you may also enjoy mastering dishes like our Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole.

Ingredients and Essential Kitchen Tools for the Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Creating this magnificent Cinnamon Roll Casserole requires a short list of simple ingredients, most of which are staples in any baking pantry. We emphasize quality where it counts, ensuring a rich, comforting flavor profile.

Casserole Base Ingredients: Detailed Breakdown

The success of this casserole hinges on the ratio of the bread (the cinnamon rolls) to the custard base. We use two standard cans of rolls to ensure the 9×13 dish is adequately filled, preventing the custard from being too deep and ensuring the rolls have enough volume to hold their structure while baking.

• 2 cans (12.4 oz each) Refrigerated Cinnamon Rolls (with icing packets reserved): Use any major brand (Pillsbury, store brand, etc.). Make sure they are the classic size, not the “Grands” or jumbo varieties, as the proportions will be off. The act of cutting these rolls into quarters increases the surface area, allowing maximum custard absorption.
• 4 Large Eggs: These are the binding agents that transform the liquid mix into a stable, silky custard. Always use large eggs for reliable baking results.
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream or Whole Milk: For the richest texture and flavor, heavy cream is recommended. It imparts a decadent mouthfeel. If substituting with whole milk, the final product will still be delicious, but slightly less rich. Avoid skim milk, as it lacks the fat necessary for a creamy texture.
• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps the custard stabilize.
• 1/4 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar: The brown sugar is critical. It adds depth, a slight molasses note, and helps create that desirable, caramelized chewiness on the bottom of the casserole. Ensure it is packed firmly for an accurate measurement.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. This classic addition enhances the sweetness and complexity of the spices.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: While the rolls already contain cinnamon, adding extra to the custard boosts the warm spice profile, ensuring the flavor permeates every piece of the dough.
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: A small but mighty addition. Nutmeg pairs beautifully with cinnamon and vanilla, giving the custard that cozy, “holiday spice” warmth often associated with classic custards and bread puddings.
• 2 tablespoons Butter, Melted: Used exclusively for greasing the pan. Melting the butter allows you to coat the baking dish thoroughly, preventing any sticky, sugary parts of the casserole from adhering to the glass.

Optional Boosted Glaze Ingredients

While the icing that comes with the rolls is fine, we enhance it to achieve a thicker, glossier, and more professional-looking finish. This simple boost is worth the extra minute of effort!

• The reserved icing from both cinnamon roll cans: The base of our quick glaze.
• 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar (Confectioners’ Sugar): This thickens the glaze without making it overly sweet, improving its texture so it drizzles beautifully and sets slightly faster.
• 1 to 2 tablespoons Milk or Heavy Cream: Used to adjust the consistency. Start with 1 tablespoon and add the second only if necessary, drip by drip, until a thick, yet flowing, consistency is achieved.

Essential Utensils for Success

You don’t need highly specialized tools to master this Cinnamon Roll Casserole, but having the right basics makes the process seamless:

• 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: This standard size is perfect for holding the quantity of rolls and custard specified. A ceramic or glass dish works best as it retains heat well and offers easy cleanup.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Necessary for whisking the custard thoroughly. Ensure it’s large enough to prevent splashing while whisking eggs and liquids.
• Whisk: Essential for incorporating air into the eggs and dissolving the sugars completely into the liquids to form a smooth custard base.
• Small Mixing Bowl (for Glaze): Used solely for mixing the icing and powdered sugar.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For safely and quickly cutting the cinnamon rolls into quarters.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy in measuring the sugars and spices is key to the custard’s flavor balance.

By preparing all these ingredients and tools beforehand (a practice known as “mise en place”), you ensure the 15-minute prep window is efficient and stress-free, leading directly into the glorious baking phase.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Your Perfect Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Follow these detailed steps precisely to guarantee a beautiful rise, perfect texture, and rich flavor in your final product. Pay special attention to the soaking time, as this is the game-changer for moisture.

Preparation and Assembly Steps

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish (The Foundation):

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the rolls puff up quickly and the custard sets without drying out the bread. Next, melt your 2 tablespoons of butter. Use a pastry brush or paper towel to liberally grease a 9×13 inch baking dish, paying special attention to the corners and sides. This preparation prevents the sugary custard from sticking and aids in easy serving.

2. Cut the Cinnamon Rolls (Creating Surface Area):

   Open both cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. Crucially, remove the included icing packets and set them aside. Place the rolls on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp knife, cut each cinnamon roll into quarters (four uniform pieces per roll). Aim for roughly equal chunks, about 1-inch squares. Scatter the cut dough pieces evenly across the bottom of the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. They should be snug but not packed tightly.

3. Prepare the Custard Mixture (Flavor Base):

   In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs. Whisk them vigorously until they are lightly beaten and slightly frothy. This incorporates a little air and ensures they mix smoothly with the liquids.

4. Add Wet and Dry Ingredients (Building the Custard):

   Pour the heavy cream (or whole milk) into the egg mixture. Now, add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and the 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Whisk this mixture thoroughly for at least 60 seconds. You must ensure the brown sugar and granulated sugar are completely dissolved into the liquids. A gritty texture means the sugar hasn’t dissolved, which can lead to a coarse or uneven final texture.

5. Combine and Soak (The Moisture Step):

   Carefully pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the cut cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. The custard should cover the rolls completely or nearly completely. Use a spatula or spoon to gently toss or stir the rolls to ensure all pieces are saturated and submerged in the custard. This step is vital. Allow the casserole to sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes. This mandatory soaking time allows the bread pieces to absorb the liquid fully, guaranteeing a moist, gooey center rather than a dry bake.

Baking and Finishing Steps

6. Bake the Casserole (The Transformation):

   Place the baking dish into the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Doneness is indicated when the casserole is beautifully golden brown on top, appears slightly puffed up, and the center is set. To confirm, insert a toothpick near the center of the casserole; it should come out clean or with minimal moist crumbs (not raw liquid custard). If the top begins to brown too quickly before the center is cooked, loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil.

7. Prepare the Glaze (The Finishing Touch):

   While the Cinnamon Roll Casserole is in its final 10 minutes of baking, prepare the boosted glaze. Open the reserved icing packets (from Step 2) and scrape the contents into a small mixing bowl. Add the 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk or cream. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and reaches a thick, yet flowing, drizzle consistency. If the glaze is too thick to drizzle, add the second tablespoon of milk, a few drops at a time, until perfect. For visual inspiration on this and other amazing breakfast treats, be sure to check out our Pinterest board for more recipe ideas.

8. Glaze and Serve (The Best Part):

   Remove the Cinnamon Roll Casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps the custard fully settle. Drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the warm casserole. Serve immediately while the casserole is still warm and the glaze melts slightly into the crevices. Enjoy this perfect, gooey breakfast bake!

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Delicious Cinnamon Roll Casserole Variations

Mastering the Cinnamon Roll Casserole is easy, but a few professional tips can elevate your results. Additionally, knowing how to troubleshoot common issues and incorporate variations ensures this recipe remains exciting every time you make it.

Troubleshooting Common Casserole Issues

• Problem: The Casserole is Dry. This is usually caused by inadequate soaking time or overbaking. Ensure you let the rolls soak for the full 5–10 minutes before baking (Step 5). If using a metal pan instead of ceramic/glass, reduce the baking time by a few minutes, as metal conducts heat faster and can dry out the edges.
• Problem: The Center is Undercooked/Jiggly. If the top is golden but the center still seems liquid, tent the casserole loosely with foil (this prevents the crust from burning) and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. The custard must be set completely, as confirmed by the toothpick test.
• Problem: The Glaze is too Thin. If your glaze runs off the side immediately, you likely added too much liquid. To fix it, whisk in another teaspoon of powdered sugar until the desired thickness is reached.

Flavor Variations to Try

The base recipe is fantastic, but don’t hesitate to personalize your Cinnamon Roll Casserole with these exciting additions:

1. Fruity Delight: Add 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen (not thawed) blueberries, raspberries, or finely diced apples to the baking dish along with the cinnamon roll pieces. The fruit adds a delightful pop of freshness and tang.
2. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts over the rolls before pouring in the custard. This adds a lovely crunch and depth of flavor, reminiscent of a Churro Cheesecake or other spiced desserts.
3. Chocolate Chip Magic: Mix 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the custard base or simply scatter them over the top before baking.
4. Cream Cheese Boost: For an ultra-rich texture, cube 4 oz of plain cream cheese and scatter the cubes among the cinnamon roll pieces before pouring the custard over. The cream cheese melts into gooey pockets of tanginess as it bakes.

Ingredient Alternatives

• Gluten-Free: While challenging, you can find refrigerated gluten-free cinnamon rolls (often found in the frozen section). The cook time may vary slightly, but the method remains the same.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk or a high-quality, rich plant-based milk (like oat milk or cashew milk). Substitute melted plant-based butter for greasing the dish. The final result will be slightly less rich but still deeply satisfying.
• Overnight Oats Variation (For a Healthier Twist): While not a direct substitute, if you are looking for a morning bake with a similar feel but more structure, you can try preparing overnight oats in a casserole dish instead, baking it just before serving.

Estimated Nutritional Insight and Ingredient Benefits

As this Cinnamon Roll Casserole uses prepared dough and is topped with a rich glaze, it is undeniably a treat, best reserved for special occasions or indulging brunches. While exact nutritional information varies significantly based on the specific brand of cinnamon rolls and the precise quantity of glaze used, we can provide estimated values and highlight the inherent benefits of the whole ingredients.

Disclaimer: The following nutritional estimates are based on the assumption of 8 generous servings and typical refrigerated cinnamon roll packaging data. These values should be considered estimates, not absolute fact.

Estimated Nutritional Values Per Serving (1/8 of Casserole)

• Calories: 380 – 450 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g – 25g (Varies heavily with heavy cream use)
• Saturated Fat: 8g – 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g – 65g
• Sugar: 30g – 45g (Includes natural and added sugars)
• Protein: 7g – 10g
• Fiber: 1g – 2g

It is important to remember that this Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a decadent breakfast or dessert, intended for enjoyment rather than daily health optimization.

Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Eggs: The four large eggs in the custard mixture provide a significant boost of high-quality protein (around 6 grams per egg). Protein is essential for muscle repair, satiety, and energy stabilization. Eggs also contain beneficial vitamins like choline, vital for brain health.
• Dairy (Heavy Cream/Milk): Dairy is a crucial source of calcium, important for bone health, and Vitamin D (if fortified). The fat content in the cream not only makes the casserole wonderfully rich but also aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Beyond their incredible flavor and aromatic benefits, these spices contain potent antioxidants. Cinnamon, in particular, has been studied for its potential properties in helping to regulate blood sugar levels, making the intense sweetness slightly more complex.

While the overall dish is high in sugar and carbohydrates, serving this Cinnamon Roll Casserole alongside a simple protein source, like bacon or sausage, can create a more balanced meal that slows down sugar absorption and keeps energy levels steady.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Conclusion: The Simplest Path to Decadent Breakfast

The Cinnamon Roll Casserole stands as a testament to kitchen ingenuity taking a beloved pantry shortcut and transforming it through simple additions into something truly spectacular. This recipe provides all the warm, comforting, spiced flavors of a homemade cinnamon roll, but with the added decadence of a rich, creamy bread pudding texture.

We’ve covered everything necessary for your success: the precise measurements for the luxurious spiced custard, the importance of the 5-10 minute soak time, the key step of boosting the included glaze, and handy troubleshooting tips to guarantee a moist, set center every time. Whether you are seeking the ultimate holiday brunch centerpiece, a simple dessert that feeds a crowd, or just a quick fix for a cinnamon sugar craving, this recipe delivers on every front.

Say goodbye to long hours of preparation and hello to the easiest, gooziest, most delightful Cinnamon Roll Casserole you will ever make. It’s perfect for cozy mornings, festive gatherings, or anytime a spoonful of sweet, gooey comfort is needed. Don’t wait to try this winning combination! If you enjoyed this comfort food classic, perhaps another rich, easy dessert like our Creamy Corn Pudding Casserole might inspire your next cooking adventure.

Bake it this weekend and let us know in the comments below how much your family loved this ultimate easy breakfast bake! Happy cooking!

Quick and Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole

A delightful breakfast or dessert casserole made from refrigerated cinnamon rolls soaked in a sweet, spiced egg custard, baked until golden, and topped with a creamy, boosted glaze.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 8 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 9x13 inch Baking Dish
• Large Mixing Bowl
• Whisk

Ingredients

  

For the Casserole Base

• 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (reserve the icing packets)
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for greasing the baking dish)

For the Optional Boosted Glaze

• The reserved icing from both cinnamon roll cans
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream

Instructions

 

Preparation and Assembly

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Use the 2 tablespoons of melted butter to grease a 9x13 inch baking dish, ensuring the sides are well coated to prevent sticking.
• Remove the cinnamon rolls from the cans and set the included icing packets aside. On a clean cutting board, cut each cinnamon roll into quarters (four pieces per roll). Place the cut pieces directly into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish.
• Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs until they are lightly beaten and frothy.
• Add Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the heavy cream or whole milk into the egg mixture. Add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk this mixture thoroughly until the sugars are completely dissolved and the ingredients are well combined into a smooth custard.
• Combine and Soak: Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the cut cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently toss or stir the rolls to ensure all pieces are coated and submerged in the custard. Allow the casserole to sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the bread pieces to absorb the liquid fully.

Baking and Finishing

• Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish into the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown on top, puffed up, and the center is set (a toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean).
• Prepare the Glaze: While the casserole is baking, prepare the boosted glaze. Open the reserved icing packets and scrape the contents into a small mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk or cream. Whisk until smooth and drizzle consistency is reached. If the glaze is too thick, add the second tablespoon of milk, a few drops at a time.
• Glaze and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes. Drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the warm casserole. Serve immediately while the casserole is still warm.

Notes

For added texture, consider mixing 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts into the cut cinnamon roll pieces before pouring the custard over them. This casserole is best served fresh but leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.

Keyword brunch, cinnamon, easy, holiday, quick, sweet