If you’re craving a cozy, sweet, and unforgettable breakfast, this Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is about to become your new favorite recipe. It combines two of the most beloved morning treats—cinnamon rolls and French toast—into one irresistibly gooey, soft, and flavor-packed dish. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a holiday morning, or just want to spoil yourself and your loved ones, this recipe checks all the boxes.
In this post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know: what makes this dish special, how to make it, tips for success, serving ideas, and 15 helpful FAQs to ensure you feel confident and inspired in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
This casserole is the perfect balance of indulgent and easy-to-make. Here’s why it’s so popular:
-
Time-saving: Ready in about 45 minutes, making it great for both weekday brunches and holiday mornings
-
Minimal prep: Uses pre-made cinnamon rolls (or homemade if preferred)
-
Gooey and flavorful: The cinnamon sugar swirls melt into the custard base for a rich, sticky, decadent texture
-
Crowd-pleaser: Great for gatherings or family meals—everyone will ask for seconds
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of simple ingredients you likely already have:
-
2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count each)
-
4 large eggs
-
1 cup of milk (or half-and-half for a richer custard)
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp cinnamon
-
1/4 cup maple syrup
-
1/4 cup brown sugar (optional for added sweetness)
-
Icing from the cinnamon rolls or homemade cream cheese glaze
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Cut the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the cinnamon roll cans and cut each roll into quarters. Spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Mix the Custard
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and maple syrup until well combined.
Step 4: Pour and Soak
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the flavor.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Warm up the included icing or use your own cream cheese glaze. Drizzle it generously over the baked casserole. Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Results
-
Don’t overbake: The casserole should be gooey inside. Bake until just set in the center
-
Use half-and-half: For an ultra-rich custard, swap out milk for half-and-half or add a splash of heavy cream
-
Add extras: Consider chopped pecans, raisins, or fresh apple slices for added texture and flavor
How to Serve It
This casserole is best served warm with a drizzle of icing or syrup. Pair it with:
-
Scrambled eggs or bacon for a sweet-and-savory combo
-
Fresh fruit or berries for brightness
-
A hot cup of coffee or tea
It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert!
Storage and Reheating
-
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days
-
Reheat: Microwave individual servings for 30–45 seconds, or reheat in a 300°F oven until warm
-
Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast.
2. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Homemade rolls will add even more flavor and freshness to your casserole.
3. What’s the best milk to use?
Whole milk or half-and-half gives the best texture. You can also use dairy-free options like almond or oat milk.
4. Can I use stale bread instead of cinnamon rolls?
Yes, but the result will be more like traditional French toast casserole and less gooey and cinnamon-rich.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Very much so! Kids love the gooey texture and sweet glaze.
6. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, skip the brown sugar or reduce the maple syrup if you want it less sweet.
7. Can I add fruit?
Yes! Try chopped apples, bananas, or berries for a fruity twist.
8. How do I know when it’s done baking?
The center should be set but still soft. Insert a knife in the middle—it should come out mostly clean.
9. What icing should I use?
You can use the included icing, or make your own glaze with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
10. How long does it take to bake?
Typically 35–40 minutes, depending on your oven.
11. Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze baked or unbaked. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight.
12. Can I add nuts?
Yes. Chopped pecans or walnuts add great crunch.
13. Is this good for a brunch party?
Definitely. It serves 6–8 people and is always a crowd favorite.
14. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking dish and extend the baking time slightly.
15. What’s the best topping besides icing?
Maple syrup, whipped cream, caramel sauce, or powdered sugar all work beautifully.
Final Thoughts
The Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary morning into something magical. It’s warm, comforting, simple to make, and completely unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just want to treat yourself, this is a dish you’ll come back to again and again.
Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls 8-count each, icing reserved
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half for a richer texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar optional for extra sweetness
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 1/2 cup diced apples or bananas
- Pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for seasonal flavor
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Cut cinnamon rolls into quarters and scatter them evenly in the baking dish.
- Prepare the custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, maple syrup, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Pour custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the dish, making sure all pieces are coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb the mixture.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the center is just set. (Check with a knife—if it comes out mostly clean, it's done.)
- Warm the icing (included with the cinnamon rolls) in the microwave for about 10 seconds, then drizzle over the casserole right after baking.
- Optional: Add your own homemade cream cheese glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
- Serve warm and enjoy! Pairs perfectly with fresh fruit, eggs, or coffee.
Related posts:
Golden & Crispy Chicken Cutlets with Gooey Cheese Recipe: A Delicious Comfort Food Delight
Ultimate Taco Casserole Recipe: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal
Red Hot Cinnamon Hard Candy Recipe: A Spicy-Sweet Treat You’ll Love
Grape Crush Cupcakes Recipe: A Sweet and Fruity Delight
