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Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe Perfect Make Ahead Breakfast

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A quick and easy cinnamon roll casserole that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with a creamy custard and a luscious cream cheese glaze. Perfect for make-ahead breakfasts and crowd-pleasing brunches.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package refrigerated cinnamon rolls (about 8 rolls) with icing included
  • 3 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 cup whole milk (240 ml)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 g), packed
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons butter (30 g), melted (optional)
  • 4 oz cream cheese (113 g), softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (120 g), sifted
  • 23 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (3045 ml) for glaze

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Cut each refrigerated cinnamon roll into quarters, yielding about 32 pieces.
  3. Arrange the cinnamon roll pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, pressing down lightly so they’re snug but not squished.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons melted butter until smooth.
  5. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, pressing down gently if needed.
  6. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
  7. Remove from fridge 15 minutes before baking. Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden and custard is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  8. While baking, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk or heavy cream until smooth and creamy. Adjust milk to desired drizzle consistency.
  9. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes after baking, then drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the top.
  10. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Letting the casserole soak overnight is key for a soft, custardy texture. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil halfway through baking. For a crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking. The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls and dairy-free substitutes for dietary adaptations.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon roll casserole, make ahead breakfast, easy cinnamon rolls, breakfast casserole, cinnamon sugar, cream cheese glaze, brunch recipe