Name: Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 (12.4 oz) cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/3 cup maple syrup; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp salt; 2 tbsp melted butter; Powdered sugar or icing from cinnamon rolls for topping

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·4 from 68 reviews

If you adore the cozy aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven and crave a dessert that’s simultaneously nostalgic and comforting, this Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. This delightful casserole layers soft, gooey cinnamon roll pieces soaked in a spiced custard, baked to golden perfection, and topped with sweet icing or powdered sugar. Perfect for brunch, holiday mornings, or a special dessert, it combines ease and indulgence in each bite. Ready to warm your kitchen and your heart with every serving?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe lies in its simple ingredient list. Each component plays a vital role in building its soft texture, rich flavor, and luscious sweetness without requiring complicated prep or hard-to-find items.

Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (2 cans, 12.4 oz each): Provides the buttery, cinnamon-swirled base that’s soft and gooey after baking.
Large eggs (4): Bind the casserole and create that custardy richness.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds luxurious creaminess for a tender texture.
Maple syrup (1/3 cup): Offers natural sweetness with a subtle depth that complements cinnamon beautifully.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, familiar note.
Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): Intensifies the classic cinnamon roll spice charm.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 tsp): Adds a hint of festive warmth without overpowering.
Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
Melted butter (2 tbsp): Provides a golden, buttery finish on top for that irresistible crust.
Powdered sugar or icing from cinnamon rolls: For drizzling or dusting as a sweet, decorative topping.

How to Make Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Cinnamon Rolls

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving. Next, take those refrigerated cinnamon rolls and cut each one into quarters. Spread the pieces evenly across the prepared dish, creating a cozy cinnamon layer that’s ready to soak up all the custard goodness in the next step.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk them thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and well blended. This custard is the magic that soaks into each cinnamon roll piece, infusing them with a creamy, spiced flavor and giving the casserole its melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in your baking dish, making sure every corner is covered so the casserole bakes evenly. Drizzle the melted butter on top to create a beautifully golden crust as the casserole bakes. Slide your dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole puffs up, turns a gorgeous golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Add the Finishing Touch

Once out of the oven, let your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time helps it set just right. Before serving, drizzle with the reserved icing from the cinnamon rolls or dust with powdered sugar for an inviting sweet finish that makes each bite even more delightful.

How to Serve Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

For that wow factor, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for crunch, or drizzle a little warm caramel sauce over the finished casserole. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also make lovely additions that add both flavor and color.

Side Dishes

This cinnamon roll casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh fruit salad or a light, bright yogurt parfait. If serving for brunch, crispy bacon or sausage links add a savory contrast that balances the sweetness brilliantly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve straight from the baking dish for a cozy, homey vibe or portion it into individual ramekins to impress your guests with a personalized touch. You can even add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to serve it as a decadent warm dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe, place any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick breakfasts or snacks during the week.

Freezing

To freeze, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Rewarm slices in a microwave-safe dish for about 30 to 60 seconds or until heated through. For a crispier top, pop leftovers in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. Either way, your dessert will taste just as cozy and comforting as fresh from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?

Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will bring a fresh, personal touch to the casserole. Just make sure they’re not overly large so they fit nicely in the baking dish and soak up the custard evenly.

Is this recipe suitable for breakfast or only dessert?

This Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is wonderfully versatile. It can shine as a special brunch dish or as a sweet dessert after dinner, satisfying any cinnamon roll craving you have throughout the day.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or another creamy plant-based alternative, and use a dairy-free butter substitute for drizzling. The casserole will still be luscious and satisfying.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming soggy?

Ensure you bake it until the custard is fully set and the top is golden brown, and avoid cutting into it right out of the oven. Allowing it to cool slightly helps the texture firm up and prevents sogginess.

Can I add nuts or fruit to the casserole?

Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch, while stirring in fresh or dried fruit like apples or raisins can introduce a new dimension of flavor and sweetness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Dessert Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick, simple, and loaded with all the flavors you love from classic cinnamon rolls but with an exciting twist that makes it perfect for so many occasions. I hope you give this delightful recipe a try and discover how easily it becomes a beloved treat in your home, just as it has in mine!