If you’re looking for a decadent, easy-to-make breakfast or brunch recipe, look no further than Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake! This indulgent dish combines the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls and the comfort of French toast in one irresistibly sweet and satisfying dish. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or lazy weekend mornings, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

• 2 (8 oz) cans of cinnamon rolls (with icing)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Optional toppings: extra cinnamon roll icing (from the cans), powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh berries

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
3. Open the two cans of cinnamon rolls. Set aside the icing tubes for later use.
4. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters (bite-sized pieces) and place them evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 2: Make the French Toast Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
2. Pour the mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish, making sure every piece is soaked with the custard. Gently press down with a spoon or spatula to help the liquid soak in.

Step 3: Add Butter and Let It Soak

1. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the cinnamon rolls for an extra touch of richness.
2. For best results, let the dish sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the cinnamon roll pieces to soak up the custard mixture.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked.

Step 5: Add the Icing

1. While the casserole is baking, take the cinnamon roll icing tubes that came with the rolls and heat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to soften them, making it easier to drizzle over the casserole later.
2. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and drizzle the icing generously over the top. For extra sweetness, you can even serve the casserole with a little extra icing or whipped cream on top.

Step 6: Serve

1. Allow the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake to cool slightly for a few minutes before slicing into squares.
2. Optional: Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor and color.

Cooking Notes

• Make Ahead Option: You can assemble this dish the night before. Prepare the casserole up to the point of pouring the egg mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces, then cover the dish tightly and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since the dish will be cold.
• Cinnamon Rolls: For an even more decadent dish, you can use Cinnabon-style cinnamon rolls or other premium brands. The more cinnamon and sugar, the better!
• Dairy-Free Option: To make this recipe dairy-free, use dairy-free butter and substitute the milk and cream with plant-based options like almond milk or coconut milk.
• Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a different flavor twist.

Variations

1. Apple Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake

Add some diced apples to the mix to bring an autumn-inspired twist to your French toast bake. Simply peel and chop two medium apples, then toss them in cinnamon sugar before adding them to the cinnamon roll mixture.

2. Berry-Infused French Toast Bake

For a fresh, fruity version, add fresh mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) on top of the cinnamon rolls before baking. The berries will burst during baking and provide a lovely contrast to the sweet, cinnamon-soaked bread.

3. Caramelized Banana French Toast Bake

Slice some ripe bananas and caramelize them in a skillet with butter and brown sugar before adding them to the casserole. The bananas will add an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of richness.

4. Nutty Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake

If you’re a fan of texture, add some chopped pecans or walnuts to the top of the casserole before baking. The nuts will toast in the oven and provide a wonderful crunch.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or reheat the entire casserole in a low oven (300°F) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen cinnamon rolls?

Yes! You can use frozen cinnamon rolls if you prefer. Just let them thaw for a few hours at room temperature before cutting them into quarters and assembling the casserole.

2. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

While the cinnamon rolls provide the perfect flavor, you can substitute them with day-old croissants or brioche if you prefer a more buttery, rich texture.

3. Can I make this recipe without the icing?

Yes! If you’d like a less sweet version, you can skip the icing or top it with powdered sugar instead.

4. Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double all ingredients and bake in a larger dish (like a 13×9-inch or two smaller baking dishes). You may need to increase the baking time slightly.

This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake is a deliciously indulgent dish that combines two breakfast favorites in one. With its gooey cinnamon roll centers and custard-like French toast base, it’s the perfect way to start the day on a sweet note. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just want to treat yourself on a lazy morning, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of cinnamon rolls and French toast all in one bite!