Imagine waking up to the irresistible scent of warm cinnamon and sweet brown sugar filling your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the breakfast table. This Cinnamon Roll Casserole combines the gooey goodness of canned cinnamon rolls with a rich cream base, creating an effortless dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Perfect for cozy mornings, holiday brunches, or special occasions, it’s a delightful way to treat your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen.
The layers of tender cinnamon roll pieces soak up a buttery, cinnamon-sugar glaze as they bake, resulting in a golden, soft casserole topped with a drizzled icing that melts right in your mouth. Whether you follow the classic preparation or add seasonal fruits and nuts, this casserole brings warmth and joy to any breakfast table.
- Easy, hands-off preparation perfect for busy mornings or entertaining guests.
- Uses store-bought cinnamon rolls for convenience without sacrificing flavor.
- Rich, creamy texture balances sweetness and buttery cinnamon layers beautifully.
Ingredients
- Canned Cinnamon Rolls (8 count): Pre-made, soft doughy rolls filled with cinnamon and sugar, convenient and flavorful base.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds richness and moisture, soaking into rolls for a creamy, decadent texture throughout.
- Butter (melted): Provides a luscious buttery flavor that enhances browning and sweetness on top.
- Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel notes and sweetness, perfectly complementing the cinnamon spice.
- Ground Cinnamon: Infuses warm, aromatic spice that defines the classic cinnamon roll flavor profile.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking. A consistent temperature ensures the casserole cooks evenly and develops a golden top.
- Prepare Cinnamon Rolls
Cut each canned cinnamon roll into quarters to create small, manageable pieces. Set the included icing aside for later drizzle. This helps the rolls bake thoroughly and absorb the creamy mixture better.
- Arrange Rolls and Pour Cream
Pour the heavy whipping cream into a 7×11 baking dish, then evenly distribute the quartered rolls over it. The cream will soak into the rolls during baking, resulting in a moist and tender casserole.
- Mix and Add Topping
In a small bowl, stir together melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the rolls to add sweetness, flavor, and aid caramelization as it bakes.
- Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Covering keeps moisture in, allowing the rolls to steam gently and absorb the custard-like cream.
- Bake Uncovered Until Golden
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes so the top becomes golden brown and slightly crisp, adding a wonderful texture contrast.
- Drizzle with Icing
Once out of the oven, drizzle the reserved icing over the warm casserole. The heat will softly melt the icing, creating an irresistible sweet glaze that finishes the dish beautifully.
- Check your cinnamon rolls’ package size; adjust quantity accordingly to fit your baking dish.
- If you prefer a fruitier casserole, add blueberries or chopped apples before baking for extra flavor and texture.
- This casserole is best enjoyed warm right out of the oven for the gooey, fresh-baked experience.
Storage Tips
Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly and refrigerating for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings gently in the microwave or whole casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a side of fresh fruit or a cup of hot coffee or tea for a complete morning meal. Sprinkle chopped nuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
- Use full-fat heavy cream for the richest, creamiest texture that soaks the rolls perfectly.
- Grease your baking dish lightly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute cream with coconut milk and butter with coconut oil.
FAQs
- Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.
- Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just cut your homemade rolls into quarters and follow the same instructions; baking time may vary slightly.
- How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the brown sugar slightly or use less icing drizzle to control the sweetness to your preference.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Is this casserole suitable for kids?
Definitely! Its soft texture and sweet flavors make it a kid-friendly breakfast or brunch option everyone will enjoy.
Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Equipment
- 1 7x11 inch baking dish
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 foil
Ingredients
- 2 cans cinnamon rolls 8 rolls total
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and set aside the icing.
- Pour the heavy whipping cream into a 7x11 inch baking dish.
- Arrange the quartered cinnamon rolls evenly over the cream.
- In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well mixed.
- Pour the butter mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes until the casserole is golden brown.
- Drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing over the warm casserole before serving.
Notes
- Use your favorite fruits or nuts as toppings for added flavor.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently to keep rolls moist and gooey.
