9x9 Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe for Easy Breakfast Treats

This 9×9 cinnamon roll casserole is a delightful, easy-to-make breakfast or brunch dish that combines the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with a soft, custardy texture. Perfect for feeding a small crowd or prepping ahead, it transforms store-bought cinnamon rolls into a cozy, pull-apart casserole that’s ideal for busy mornings or special occasions.

Ingredients

1 package (8 count) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra cinnamon flavor)
Pinch of salt
Butter or non-stick spray, for greasing the pan

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Unroll the cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Arrange the pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, distributing the cinnamon and filling throughout.

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Press down lightly on the cinnamon roll pieces so they soak up the custard mixture.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight. This soaking step helps the custard fully absorb into the rolls, creating a tender, bread pudding-like texture.

Remove the casserole from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before baking to come closer to room temperature.
Remove the plastic wrap or foil, then bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes. Drizzle the included icing packet over the warm casserole before serving.

Tips

Substitution for Cinnamon Rolls: If you can’t find refrigerated cinnamon rolls, you can use homemade cinnamon rolls or frozen ones thawed overnight. Adjust soaking time if homemade are denser.
Make Ahead: The casserole can be assembled and soaked overnight in the refrigerator, making it perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings.
Milk Alternatives: Whole milk and heavy cream give the best custard texture, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like oat or almond milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.

Don’t Skimp on Soaking: Allowing the rolls to soak for at least an hour ensures the custard fully penetrates the dough, preventing dry or dense spots.

Serving Suggestions

This cinnamon roll casserole is best served warm, drizzled with the icing that comes with the rolls or with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Pair it with fresh fruit like sliced berries or orange segments to balance the sweetness. For a heartier brunch, add a side of scrambled eggs or crispy bacon. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a spiced chai latte complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully.

Variations

You can customize this casserole in several ways to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking. To add a fruity twist, fold in fresh or frozen blueberries or chopped apples with the cinnamon roll pieces. For a richer dessert-style casserole, add a layer of cream cheese dollops before pouring the custard. To make it vegan, use plant-based cinnamon rolls and substitute eggs with a flax or chia egg mixture, and use non-dairy milk and cream.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover casserole covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated 325°F (160°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, covered loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. This casserole does not freeze well as the custard texture can become watery upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade cinnamon rolls work well in this casserole. Just make sure they are not overly dense or dry, as the soaking custard needs to penetrate the dough for the best texture. You might want to increase the soaking time slightly if your rolls are thick or dense.

Do I need to soak the cinnamon rolls before baking?

Soaking is key to achieving a custardy, bread pudding-like texture. It allows the egg and milk mixture to soak into the dough, preventing the casserole from drying out and helping it bake evenly. Soaking for at least one hour, or overnight, is recommended.

Can I prepare this casserole the night before and bake in the morning?

Absolutely. This casserole is ideal for make-ahead preparation. Assemble and soak it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake fresh in the morning. Just allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.

What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?

You can substitute heavy cream with additional whole milk or half-and-half, though the casserole may be slightly less rich and creamy. For a lighter version, using just milk is fine but the custard might be a little less luxurious in texture.

Can I add extra cinnamon or spices to this recipe?

Yes, adding up to 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mixture can enhance the warm spice profile. Be careful not to overpower the sweetness and vanilla flavor.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheating in the microwave for short intervals with a cover or damp paper towel helps retain moisture. Oven reheating at a low temperature with foil covering also works well to warm evenly without drying the casserole.

This cinnamon roll casserole is a wonderful way to turn a simple breakfast treat into a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare ahead. Its combination of soft, sweet dough and creamy custard makes it perfect for holiday mornings or weekend brunches.

For extra indulgence, serve with a drizzle of warm maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. No matter how you customize it, this casserole brings the best of cinnamon rolls in a convenient, shareable format.

9×9 Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe for Easy Breakfast Treats