Freshly baked cinnamon roll casserole with icing in a white dish, ready to serve.

Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe (7 Ingredients)

Introduction

Let me take you back for a second. Christmas morning, snow tapping the windows, and the smell of cinnamon sugar wafting through the house. That smell? Pure holiday magic. That taste? It’s this Cinnamon Roll Casserole—only back then, it took Mom hours. Now? We’re doing it the smart way.

This is the kind of recipe you keep in your back pocket. You’ve got a crowd? Brunch plans? Holiday chaos? Pull out a tube of cinnamon rolls, and you’re 40 minutes from warm, gooey bliss. Think of it like French Toast Casserole’s low-maintenance cousin—less fuss, same joy. Or like Cinnamon Roll Cake, but chunkier and better for sharing.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s all you need—just 7 real-deal ingredients:

  • 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
  • ½ cup salted butter, melted
  • 1 cup milk (any kind—yes, almond works)
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Simple, right? Keep these on hand and you’re always five steps from a hero’s breakfast.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Like a Pro

Before anything else, crank your oven to 350°F (175°C). A properly preheated oven ensures even baking—none of that sad, soggy center.

Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it generously with butter or nonstick spray. This isn’t optional. The sugar in cinnamon rolls loves to stick. A good coat prevents frustration—and preserves your crust.

Melt your butter (½ cup, salted is best). You want it melted and warm, not bubbling. Let it sit while you prep the rest. Warm butter disperses better and won’t scramble the eggs later.

Step 2: Cut the Rolls, Build the Base

Pop open those two tubes of cinnamon rolls—yes, the “pop” is part of the thrill.

Take each roll and slice it into four equal chunks. These bite-sized pieces ensure better texture and soakage. (Too big? The middle stays raw. Too small? They’ll dry out.)

Scatter the pieces evenly in your baking dish—single layer. Overlapping leads to uneven cooking. You want every roll to get that custard love.

Step 3: Make the Custard (aka The Good Stuff)

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

  • 1 cup milk (whole or whatever you’ve got)
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup (this sweetens and gives depth—don’t skip)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Whisk like you’re emulsifying vinaigrette—no egg streaks, no floating yolks. You want a uniform custard that bakes evenly. This is what transforms your rolls from doughy snacks into a legit breakfast casserole.

Step 4: Pour and Let It Soak

Pour your custard slowly and evenly over the cinnamon rolls. Don’t just dump—work it in a zig-zag pattern to coat the whole surface.

Give the pan a gentle jiggle or tap it on the counter. This helps the liquid sink between pieces and ensures every bite is infused with flavor.

Now, let it sit for 5–10 minutes. This mini “soak time” is crucial. The bread starts absorbing the liquid, which prevents dry tops and ensures a rich interior.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Glory

Place the dish on the middle rack and bake for 25–30 minutes.

Here’s what you’re looking for:

  • Golden brown tops
  • Puffy, set structure
  • A center that springs back when pressed lightly

If the middle jiggles like a waterbed, give it more time—check in 3–5 minute increments. Undercooked eggs = soggy sadness.

Step 6: Ice and Serve (Timing Is Everything)

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes. You want it hot enough to melt the icing but not so hot it turns into sugar soup.

Grab those icing packets from the cinnamon roll tubes and drizzle away. Don’t be shy—get it into the nooks and crannies. Let the warmth do the work.

Then? Slice it up and serve. The edges should be crisp, the center tender, and the whole thing should smell like a bakery at Christmas.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Keep It Fresh

Once your casserole has cooled down completely (don’t rush this—warmth breeds condensation, and condensation means soggy leftovers), store it one of two ways:

  • Airtight container: Ideal for individual portions—just slice and store.
  • Pan wrapped in foil: Perfect if you plan to reheat the whole thing later.

Shelf life: It stays fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. After that, the texture starts to go downhill.

Reheating tips:

  • Microwave: 30 seconds per slice. Quick and easy, but can soften the edges.
  • Oven: 325°F for about 10 minutes. This revives the crisp on the top and edges—the better option if you’ve got the time.

Freezing: Save for Later

Unbaked casserole:

  • Assemble everything, stop before baking.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap + foil (double coverage prevents freezer burn).
  • Freeze for up to 1 month.
  • Bake straight from frozen—add 10 extra minutes to your normal baking time.

Already baked:

  • Let it cool completely.
  • Wrap the whole dish (or individual portions) tightly in plastic and foil, or store in a freezer-safe container.
  • Freeze up to 1 month.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through (about 15 minutes for a full pan, 7–10 minutes for slices).

Pro tip: Always label with the date. Cinnamon casseroles are forgiving, but even they can’t survive eternal freezer limbo.

Variations

  • Orange Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Use orange rolls and add a splash of orange zest to your custard.
  • Topping swap:
    • Cream cheese frosting instead of the tube stuff? Chef’s kiss.
    • Fresh whipped cream and berries? Classy brunch vibes.

Serving Suggestions

This easy cinnamon roll casserole is great on its own—but pair it right, and it turns into a full-on brunch spread:

  • Fresh Fruit: Brighten the plate with strawberries, blueberries, orange slices, or a simple fruit salad. The freshness cuts the sweetness just right.
  • Hot Coffee or Tea: You need something warm and bold to match the richness. Bonus points for cinnamon-spiced lattes or chai.
  • Savory Sides: Balance all that sweet with salty—think crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, or cheesy scrambled eggs. It’s the sweet-and-savory combo that wins every time.
Cinnamon roll casserole served with scrambled eggs, berries, and coffee for a balanced brunch.

More Cinnamon Breakfast Favorites

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Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe (7 Ingredients)

A warm, gooey breakfast casserole made with just 7 ingredients—perfect for holidays, brunches, or lazy weekends. Tastes like cinnamon rolls with way less effort!

  • Author: Jake
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 810 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tubes refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
  • ½ cup salted butter, melted
  • 1 cup milk (any kind)
  • ½ cup pure maple syrup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Melt the butter and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Cut each cinnamon roll into 4 pieces and spread evenly in the dish.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together milk, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
  5. Pour custard evenly over cinnamon rolls. Tap dish to help liquid soak in.
  6. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, then bake for 25–30 minutes until golden and set.
  7. Cool for 5 minutes, then drizzle with included icing before serving.

Notes

For best results, let the casserole rest before baking to soak up the custard. To freeze, assemble and wrap before baking. Reheat in a 325°F oven for optimal texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 370
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 19g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 44g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: cinnamon roll casserole, breakfast, easy brunch, baked cinnamon rolls

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BenefitWhy It Matters
Only 7 IngredientsMinimal shopping, maximum flavor—no specialty items needed.
No Special EquipmentJust a baking dish and a whisk—easy cleanup and no mixer required.
Make-Ahead FriendlyPrep the night before, bake in the morning—zero stress during brunch rush.
Crowd-PleaserFeeds 8–10 easily—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weekend family breakfasts.
CustomizableAdd fruit, nuts, or change the topping—this base recipe is your blank canvas.
Kid-ApprovedSweet, soft, and cinnamon-swirled—what’s not to love?
Freezer-FriendlyMake it ahead, freeze, and bake later—meal prep for special mornings.

FAQ: Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe (7 Ingredients)

Can I prep it the night before?

Yes—assemble, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning (add 5 extra minutes).

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?

Definitely. Just chop them up like the tube rolls and adjust the bake time as needed.

Do I have to use maple syrup?

No—honey, agave, or light corn syrup work. Avoid fake pancake syrup.

Why is the middle soggy?

It’s underbaked. Make sure the center is puffed and springs back. Add more time if needed.

Can I freeze it?

Yes—before or after baking. Wrap well, freeze up to 1 month, and reheat at 325°F.

Conclusion

This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe (7 Ingredients) is everything a great breakfast should be—warm, easy, crowd-pleasing, and just indulgent enough to make any morning feel special. Whether you’re serving it for Christmas brunch, a lazy Sunday, or just because cinnamon sounds good today, this dish delivers every time.

Remember: use quality ingredients, don’t rush the bake, and drizzle that icing while it’s warm. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing, and your people will thank you.

Ready to bake? Save this recipe, share it with your brunch crew, and don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest for more cozy breakfast favorites. Now go make something delicious!