Imagine taking the beloved flavors of classic cinnamon rolls and transforming them into a showstopping, indulgent bake that’s as perfect for a breakfast celebration as it is for dessert. That’s exactly what Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole delivers: gooey, golden-baked cinnamon roll goodness layered under a silky, maple-spiked custard and crowned with drizzles of sweet icing. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, sharing a cozy family treat, or simply want dessert for breakfast (no judgement here!), this is the recipe that never fails to make everyone swoon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Ingredients:
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional toppings: chopped pecans, powdered sugar, or extra maple syrup
How to Make Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a generous coating of nonstick spray or a swipe of melted butter. This ensures your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole slides out easily and turns golden, not stuck and sad!
Step 2: Slice Up the Cinnamon Rolls
Pop open those cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls—there’s always a little excitement with that pop!—and cut each roll into quarters. The bite-sized pieces help the casserole bake evenly and soak up every drop of custard.
Step 3: Layer and Arrange
Tumble all the cinnamon roll pieces into your prepared baking dish and spread them into a mostly even layer. No need for perfection—just try to keep them in a single layer so they can get fluffy and golden in the oven.
Step 4: Whisk Up the Custard
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. Whisk it all together until smooth and well-blended. This is what’s going to turn your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole into pure, dreamy comfort.
Step 5: Pour and Press
Gently pour the custard mixture all over the cinnamon roll pieces in your baking dish. Give everything a light press with a spatula to help the dough soak up that luscious eggy mixture—don’t smash, just a little encouragement!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. You’re looking for a puffy, golden top that’s set in the middle (no visible liquid). If you like things extra gooey, pull it at 30 minutes; for more structure, let it go to 35.
Step 7: Drizzle and Dress
Let your casserole cool just slightly, then warm up the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls. Drizzle it generously over the top, then sprinkle with chopped pecans, shower with powdered sugar, or add a cascade of more maple syrup if you’re feeling decadent!
How to Serve Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Garnishes
Dress up your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole with a generous swirl of the included icing, a sprinkle of crunchy chopped pecans, a snowy dusting of powdered sugar, or an extra pour of maple syrup for maximum comfort-food vibes. Each bite can be personalized to suit your craving or the season!
Side Dishes
While Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole is plenty indulgent on its own, it pairs beautifully with a mountain of fresh berries, a fruit salad, or a dollop of tangy Greek yogurt on the side for a pop of freshness. For brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a sweet and savory balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole really shine? Try cutting it into squares and plating each piece with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. You can also bake the mixture in individual ramekins for a personalized touch, or serve in extra-large muffin tins for fun handheld portions!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the baking dish tightly or transfer pieces to an airtight container. The casserole will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the flavors only deepen as it sits!
Freezing
To freeze Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole, let it cool completely and wrap individual portions or the whole casserole tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat chilled or thawed casserole in the microwave for quick single servings, or pop the whole dish back in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm. Add a fresh drizzle of icing or maple syrup to revive its gooey, comforting spirit.
FAQs
Can I assemble Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole the night before?
Absolutely! Assemble everything except the baking. Cover and refrigerate overnight, then pop it in the oven in the morning. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes of bake time if it goes in cold.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with milk?
You can swap in whole milk or half-and-half for a slightly lighter casserole. The texture will be a bit less rich but still totally delicious.
What if I don’t have maple syrup?
No problem! You can use honey, agave, or even brown sugar as a substitute. Each will give a unique spin to your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole—let your taste buds decide.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Most canned cinnamon rolls contain wheat, so the casserole isn’t naturally gluten-free. However, if you find gluten-free cinnamon rolls at the store, you can absolutely use them for a celiac-friendly version!
Can I add fruit or other mix-ins?
Definitely—fold in some diced apples, raisins, or even chocolate chips before baking for a fun twist. Just keep in mind that extra moisture may require a couple minutes more baking time.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with this easy, crowd-pleasing Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole. Whether you’re sharing it at brunch, ending a holiday meal, or sneaking a slice for an afternoon treat, it’s bound to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a whirl, and let it become a new favorite at your table!
Print
Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this decadent Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole that combines the flavors of classic cinnamon rolls in a delightful baked dish. Perfect for brunch or dessert, this easy-to-make casserole will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Optional toppings: chopped pecans, powdered sugar, or extra maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare cinnamon roll pieces: Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. Place pieces evenly in the baking dish.
- Mix egg mixture: In a bowl, whisk eggs, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter.
- Pour egg mixture over rolls: Pour mixture over cinnamon rolls, ensuring pieces are coated. Press gently to ensure even coating.
- Bake: Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and set. Allow to cool slightly.
- Drizzle icing and serve: Warm icing from rolls and drizzle over casserole. Add optional toppings if desired.
Notes
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, substitute brown sugar for maple syrup.
- This casserole is ideal for brunch or dessert and reheats well.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
