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Cozy Overnight Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole

cinnamon roll french toast casserole - featured image

This overnight cinnamon roll French toast casserole combines the best of both worlds: tender, custard-soaked cinnamon rolls with caramelized edges, topped with a sweet icing drizzle. It’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast for cozy mornings, holidays, or any day that needs a warm, comforting start.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (e.g., Pillsbury Grands!)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Reserved icing from the cinnamon roll cans (about 4 tablespoons total)
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons melted butter mixed with 1 tablespoon brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a crunchy top

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Open the cinnamon rolls and separate them. Reserve the icing packets and set them aside at room temperature.
  3. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters (roughly 1-inch chunks). Scatter them evenly in the prepared dish in a single layer with some overlap.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and pale yellow (about 30 seconds).
  5. Pour the custard over the cinnamon rolls, ensuring every piece is coated. Gently press down with a spatula to encourage absorption. Do not stir too much.
  6. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight (8-12 hours).
  7. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit on the counter for about 15 minutes while the oven heats.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes to set.
  10. Microwave the reserved icing packets for 5-10 seconds to loosen. Drizzle generously over the top. If using the optional crunchy topping, sprinkle it on before baking.

Notes

For best results, use room temperature eggs and whole milk. The overnight soak is crucial for the best texture—do not skip it. If short on time, let it sit for at least 2 hours. To avoid overbaking, the center should still have a slight wobble when removed from the oven. For extra crispy edges, brush the sides of the dish with melted butter before adding the cinnamon rolls. Warm the icing before drizzling for a glossy finish.

Nutrition

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