Description
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole merges classic breakfast favorites into one incredible dish. Rich layers of sweet cinnamon bread and creamy custard create a morning masterpiece that brings comfort to weekend dining tables.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans (340 g, 12 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup (237 ml, 8 fl oz) heavy cream
- 2 tsps vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60 ml, 2 fl oz) maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsps (30 ml, 1 fl oz) unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Preparation: Quarter cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces and distribute evenly across a thoroughly greased rectangular baking dish, creating a uniform base layer.
- Custard Fusion: Whisk eggs, milk, sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until the mixture transforms into a silky, well-integrated liquid with consistent texture and color.
- Liquid Infusion: Gently pour the custard mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring complete coverage by carefully pressing the rolls to maximize liquid absorption and flavor penetration.
- Resting Phase: Cover the assembled casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes or overnight, allowing the custard to deeply permeate the rolls and develop rich, complex flavors.
- Baking Process: Preheat the oven to 350°F with the rack positioned centrally. Transfer the chilled casserole directly into the oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes until the surface achieves a golden-bronze hue and the interior sets completely.
- Finishing Touch: Once baked, remove from oven and allow brief cooling. Artfully drizzle the reserved cinnamon roll icing across the surface, creating an elegant and indulgent presentation.
- Serving: Cut into generous portions and accompany with optional garnishes like fresh berries, whipped cream, or a delicate maple syrup drizzle to elevate the breakfast experience.
Notes
- Prevent Soggy Bottom: Use day-old cinnamon rolls for better absorption and structural integrity, preventing excessive moisture that can lead to a mushy texture.
- Customize Dairy Options: Substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for lactose-free or vegan alternatives without compromising the creamy custard consistency.
- Enhance Flavor Depth: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the custard mixture to add complexity and subtle warmth to the overall taste profile.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld and creating a convenient make-ahead breakfast option for busy mornings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 9
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg