cinnamon roll casserole Recipe

Dreamy Morning Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe for Sweet Smiles

Sweet weekend mornings call for this irresistible cinnamon roll casserole that’ll make your kitchen smell like pure comfort.

Soft, pillowy layers promise a decadent breakfast treat everyone adores.

Warm spices weave through each delightful bite, creating a nostalgic experience.

Minimal effort transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing sensation.

Home cooks will appreciate how quickly this dish comes together.

Rich cream cheese glaze adds a luxurious finish that sends taste buds dancing.

Why Cinnamon Roll Casserole Makes a Cozy Breakfast

  • Indulge Quickly: A super simple recipe that requires minimal cooking skills, perfect for beginners or those wanting a fast breakfast treat.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Classic cinnamon roll flavors transformed into a shareable casserole, ideal for family breakfasts, brunches, or weekend gatherings with friends.
  • Sweet Morning Hack: No complex prep needed – just mix ingredients, soak bread pieces, and bake, making it a stress-free morning solution for busy households.
  • Versatile Dessert Option: Can be served warm as a breakfast dish or cool dessert, adaptable for different meal times and satisfying sweet cravings with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Bread Base:
  • Bread: Soft, day-old bread that will absorb the creamy milk mixture and create a custardy texture.
Liquid Ingredients:
  • Milk: Provides moisture and helps create a soft, rich base for the casserole.
  • Vanilla: Adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements the cinnamon.
Flavoring and Topping:
  • Cinnamon: Gives the classic warm, spicy taste that defines the cinnamon roll flavor.
  • Icing: Sweet, sugary glaze that adds a traditional cinnamon roll finish to the casserole.

Instructions to Prepare Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Step 1: Prepare Liquid Base

In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk and vanilla until well combined. The liquid will create a delicious, creamy foundation for your casserole.

Step 2: Add Cinnamon Flavor

Sprinkle cinnamon into the milk mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the warm, sweet spice throughout the liquid.

Step 3: Soak Pastry Pieces

Cut cinnamon rolls into quarters and gently submerge them in the milk mixture. Allow the pastry pieces to absorb the liquid for 10-15 minutes, which helps intensify the flavors and create a soft, pudding-like texture.

Step 4: Warm the Icing

Place the icing in the microwave and heat for 10-15 seconds, creating a smooth, pourable consistency that will drizzle beautifully over the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the soaked cinnamon roll pieces to a baking dish. Place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and slightly crispy on top.

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately pour the warmed icing over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides and create a tempting, glossy finish.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll Casserole

  • Swap whole milk for almond or oat milk to make this recipe dairy-free and lighter.
  • Reduce cinnamon amount to 6 tablespoons for a milder flavor if you prefer less intensity.
  • Drizzle cream cheese frosting instead of packaged icing for a more homemade taste and richer texture.
  • Prepare casserole night before and refrigerate to enhance flavor absorption and save morning preparation time.
  • Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and nutritional boost before baking.

Variation Ideas for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

  • Berry Bliss Roll: Swap milk with mixed berry puree and sprinkle fresh berries between cinnamon roll layers for a fruity burst.
  • Nutty Crunch Casserole: Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking, creating a crunchy texture and rich nutty flavor.
  • Chocolate Swirl Sensation: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the casserole after baking and dust with cocoa powder for intense chocolate lovers.
  • Maple Pecan Dream: Replace vanilla with maple syrup and top with candied pecans for a decadent southern-inspired breakfast treat.

Pairing Suggestions to Accompany Cinnamon Roll Casserole

  • Brew Classic Comfort: Pair this sweet cinnamon roll casserole with a hot cup of medium roast coffee, which complements the dessert's warm spices and rich vanilla notes.
  • Creamy Companion: Serve alongside a cold glass of whole milk to balance the sweet cinnamon flavor and provide a refreshing contrast to the warm baked dish.
  • Enhance with Topping: Dollop fresh whipped cream or vanilla bean ice cream on top to elevate the casserole's creamy texture and add an extra layer of indulgence.
  • Breakfast Beverage Boost: Enjoy with a freshly squeezed orange juice to cut through the sweetness and add a bright, citrusy morning dimension to the meal.

Storage Tips for Cinnamon Roll Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
  • Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil, then place in freezer-safe bags. Keeps well for 2-3 weeks without losing texture or flavor.
  • Preheat to 3250F, cover with foil to prevent burning, warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for last 2-3 minutes to crisp edges.
  • Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature between each blast. Add a splash of milk to restore softness and prevent dryness.

FAQs About Cinnamon Roll Casserole

  • Are cinnamon rolls the main ingredient?

Yes, quartered cinnamon rolls are the key component that absorbs the milk mixture and creates the casserole base.

  • Can I use homemade or store-bought cinnamon rolls?

Both work perfectly. Homemade rolls add a personal touch, while store-bought rolls save time and still deliver delicious results.

  • How do I know when the casserole is fully baked?

Look for golden brown edges and a set center. The top should be slightly crispy and the inside should look moist but not soggy.

  • Is this recipe good for breakfast or dessert?

This versatile casserole works great as both a sweet breakfast dish and a delightful dessert, depending on when you serve it.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
cinnamon roll casserole Recipe

cinnamon roll casserole Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 30-40 minutes
  • Yield: 1 1x

Description

Luxurious cinnamon roll casserole brings sweet morning comfort straight from grandma’s kitchen. Rich layers of buttery pastry and warm spices promise a delightful breakfast experience you cannot resist.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 12 tablespoons (180 milliliters) cinnamon
  • 2 ounces (60 milliliters) milk
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) vanilla

Baking Accessories:

  • Icing (as needed)

Additional Items:

  • Cooking spray or butter (for greasing)

Instructions

  1. Whisk milk, vanilla, and cinnamon together in a spacious mixing bowl until thoroughly combined.
  2. Cut cinnamon rolls into quarter-sized segments and immerse them completely in the liquid mixture.
  3. Allow roll pieces to absorb the liquid thoroughly, letting them marinate for 12-15 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Preheat the oven to 350°F while the rolls are soaking.
  5. Transfer the saturated roll pieces into a prepared baking dish, ensuring even distribution.
  6. Gently warm the icing in the microwave for 10-12 seconds until slightly melted and pourable.
  7. Drizzle the warmed icing evenly across the top of the roll mixture.
  8. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 22-25 minutes until golden brown and set.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to stabilize.

Notes

  • Reduce cinnamon amount to 2-3 tablespoons for balanced flavor, as 12 tablespoons would be overwhelming and bitter.
  • Whole milk creates richer texture, but low-fat or dairy alternatives work for lighter version.
  • Let bread pieces soak completely in liquid mixture to ensure soft, custardy consistency throughout casserole.
  • Drizzle warm icing just before serving to maintain creamy, glossy appearance and prevent hardening.
  • Prep Time: 10-15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1
  • Calories: 20 kcal
  • Sugar: 0 g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Fat: 0 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1 g
  • Cholesterol: 2 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star