If you’re searching for a show-stopping, ultra-comforting treat that’s as perfect for cozy brunches as it is for a sweet dessert, this Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole will quickly become your new favorite. Picture all the ooey-gooey goodness of classic cinnamon rolls, made dramatically simple in casserole form, blanketed in a creamy, custard-like base and finished with an indulgent swirl of icing or whisper of powdered sugar. Whether you dig in piping hot straight from the oven or sneak a chilled square the next day (no judgment!), every bite delivers memories of Sunday mornings and celebrations in one seriously crowd-pleasing bake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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Cinnamon Roll Casserole:
- 2 cans (8-count each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- powdered sugar or reserved icing for topping
How to Make Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Cinnamon Rolls
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and giving your 9×13-inch baking dish a light coating of nonstick spray or butter. Take each cinnamon roll out of its tube and cut it into quarters, scattering those sweet little bites evenly in your baking dish. The chunkier the pieces, the more delicious, swoon-worthy pockets of cinnamon swirl will appear in every slice of your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Sweet Custard
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup (if you’re using it), and melted butter. Blend everything until totally smooth and creamy—this is the secret sauce that will soak into those cinnamon rolls, creating a luscious, bread-pudding-style texture that makes this casserole unforgettable.
Step 3: Pour and Press
Gently pour the custard mixture all over the cinnamon roll pieces, making sure to cover every corner and crevice. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to press the rolls down slightly, helping them soak up all that gorgeous custard. Don’t worry if it looks a little messy—this is what gives your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole its signature gooey center and golden, crispy edges.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. It’s ready when the top is deeply golden, the center is just set (not wobbly), and the whole kitchen smells like a cinnamon-sugar daydream. Give it a few minutes on the counter to firm up and cool slightly—this will make serving so much easier and cleaner.
Step 5: Top and Serve
As the grand finale, drizzle the reserved icing from the cinnamon roll tubes or sift over a generous dusting of powdered sugar. This final touch adds sweet contrast and a gorgeous bakery-style finish, making your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole instantly irresistible.
How to Serve Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Garnishes
Dress up each serving with a drizzle of extra icing, a swirl of maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar. For a truly special touch, scatter a few fresh berries or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for extra color and crunch—your guests will love the extra hint of flair atop this Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit salad, creamy yogurt, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If serving at brunch, try crispy bacon or warm sausage on the side; the contrast between savory and sweet turns every bite into an occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, cut the casserole into neat squares and arrange them on a tiered platter, or serve in individual ramekins for a personalized touch. Transform leftovers into a decadent trifle with layers of whipped cream and berries, or pack a chilled slice for a lunchbox pick-me-up. The possibilities with Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole are endlessly fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole has cooled to room temperature, stash any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The casserole keeps well for up to 3 days and tastes just as dreamy reheated or enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.
Freezing
If you want to save some for a future treat (or unexpected guests!), portion out the casserole and freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic and foil. When a craving hits, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator—Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a true freezer-friendly hero.
Reheating
To revive the comforting warmth, simply microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds, or reheat the whole dish in a 300°F oven until warmed through. Add your finishing dash of powdered sugar or icing after reheating for maximum melt and flavor.
FAQs
Can I assemble Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole the night before?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, let it sit at room temperature while your oven preheats, then bake as usual for an effortless, hot-from-the-oven treat.
Do I have to use maple syrup in this recipe?
No worries if you don’t have maple syrup handy—it’s totally optional. The casserole is deliciously sweet even without it, but a bit of maple does give an extra layer of cozy flavor.
Can I make Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole with homemade cinnamon rolls?
Yes, you definitely can! If you have homemade cinnamon rolls (or even day-old ones), just cut them into cubes and follow the same steps. It’s a fantastic way to use up extra rolls and make something new.
What’s the best way to keep the casserole from getting soggy?
For a perfectly balanced texture, make sure to evenly distribute the custard and avoid over-soaking the cinnamon roll pieces. Baking until the center is just set helps too—if it’s still a bit wobbly, give it a couple more minutes in the oven, checking often.
Can I add extras like nuts or fruit to the casserole?
Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of raisins or dried cranberries can be folded in with the cinnamon roll pieces before the custard is poured. Personalize your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole to match your favorite flavor combinations.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delicious new way to impress family or friends, Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole never fails to wow. It’s simple, sweet, and loaded with nostalgic flavor—perfect for sharing at brunch or sneaking a slice as a late-night treat. Give it a try and let your kitchen (and taste buds!) bask in all the cinnamon-swirled magic.
Print
Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this decadent Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole, a delightful twist on classic cinnamon rolls baked to golden perfection. With a rich custard base and the sweetness of cinnamon rolls, it’s a perfect treat for dessert or brunch.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Casserole:
- 2 cans (8-count each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- powdered sugar or reserved icing for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cut and Arrange: Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and place evenly in the baking dish.
- Mix the Custard: Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup, and melted butter until smooth.
- Pour and Bake: Pour the custard mixture over the cinnamon rolls, pressing gently to coat. Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and set.
- Finish and Serve: Let cool slightly, then drizzle with icing or dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Serve warm with fresh fruit or vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- This casserole also makes a perfect sweet brunch option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 95 mg
