Description
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole combines the sweet, gooey delight of cinnamon rolls with the comforting texture of a baked French toast, making it a perfect breakfast or brunch treat. Baked to golden perfection with pecans for added crunch, and topped with the classic icing and optional whipped cream, it’s an indulgent dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 (12.4 ounce each) cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8 rolls each)
- 5 large eggs
- ⅓ cup milk (or light cream)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 ¼ cups chopped pecans
- Icing from cinnamon rolls (included in the cans)
- Whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Pour the melted unsalted butter into a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it evenly along the bottom to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Cut Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll in half. Then cut each half into three pieces to create bite-sized chunks for the casserole.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, milk (or light cream), cinnamon, vanilla extract, and brown sugar until well combined and smooth.
- Combine with Cinnamon Roll Pieces: Add the chopped cinnamon roll pieces and chopped pecans to the egg mixture. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly.
- Transfer to Dish: Pour and spread the mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
- Bake Uncovered: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to allow it to start setting and browning.
- Cover and Continue Baking: Cover the casserole dish and bake for an additional 13 to 18 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, ensuring it is fully cooked through.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes to help it set and make serving easier.
- Drizzle Icing: Drizzle the icing from the cinnamon rolls over the top of the casserole to add sweetness and a creamy texture.
- Serve: Optionally, top individual servings with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra indulgent touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Using light cream instead of milk will make the casserole richer and creamier.
- Make sure to cover the casserole partway through baking to prevent over-browning while allowing the inside to cook fully.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans.
- Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before adding icing prevents it from melting too much and running off.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cinnamon rolls if available.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 31 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
