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Easy Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe Perfect for Make-Ahead Breakfast

cinnamon roll french toast casserole - featured image

A quick and easy make-ahead breakfast casserole combining the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the custardy texture of French toast. Perfect for busy mornings or brunch with friends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package store-bought cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing (e.g., Pillsbury)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk or 2% milk (can substitute almond or oat milk)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter (optional but recommended)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting or optional glaze drizzle

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Unroll or cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces. If using pre-cut rolls, slice each into quarters.
  3. Place the pieces evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading them so they’re close but not packed tightly.
  4. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter until smooth and well combined.
  5. Pour the custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Use a spatula to gently press the bread pieces down so they soak up the custard fully.
  6. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
  7. When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 10-15 minutes.
  8. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set (a knife inserted should come out clean).
  9. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with any remaining cream cheese frosting before serving.

Notes

For best results, soak the casserole overnight to allow the custard to fully absorb into the cinnamon rolls. If pressed for time, a minimum 4-hour soak works but results in less custardy texture. Tent with foil if the top browns too quickly. Adding chopped pecans before baking adds a nice crunch. Can be made vegan by substituting flax or chia eggs and plant-based milk, and using vegan cinnamon rolls.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon roll, French toast casserole, make-ahead breakfast, easy breakfast, brunch, cinnamon, custard, cinnamon rolls