Get ready to indulge in a breakfast treat that will make your mornings unforgettable! The Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole combines sweet, gooey cinnamon rolls with a creamy egg mixture for a simple yet mouthwatering dish. Imagine the warm, cozy aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes. I’ll guide you through each step, so whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to delight!
Ingredients
Main ingredients required
– 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup of milk (whole or almond)
– ½ cup heavy cream
Flavor enhancers
– ¼ cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon nutmeg
Toppings and garnishes
– ½ cup maple syrup (additional for serving)
– Powdered sugar for garnish
Gathering the right ingredients is key. First, you need two cans of cinnamon rolls. I prefer the ones that come with icing. They give the casserole a rich flavor. Next, grab six large eggs. They add structure and richness.
For the liquid, use one cup of milk. You can choose whole or almond milk based on your taste. Adding half a cup of heavy cream makes it extra creamy.
Now, let’s add some flavor. You’ll need a quarter cup of brown sugar for sweetness. One tablespoon of vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma. Ground cinnamon is a must—one teaspoon gives that classic cinnamon roll taste. A little nutmeg, just half a teaspoon, enhances the flavor even more.
Lastly, don’t forget the toppings. You’ll want half a cup of maple syrup. This is for drizzling when serving. A dusting of powdered sugar makes it look beautiful. These ingredients come together to create a delightful breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation phase
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
– Open the cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters.
Mixing ingredients
– In a large bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, 1 cup milk, ½ cup heavy cream, and ¼ cup brown sugar.
– Add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and ½ cup maple syrup. Mix until well combined.
– Place the quartered cinnamon rolls in the greased baking dish. Spread them evenly.
– Pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon rolls. Press down gently to coat all pieces.
Baking the casserole
– Let the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes to soak up the flavors.
– Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check for a golden top and set center.
– While it bakes, prepare the icing from the cinnamon roll package.
– Once done, let the casserole cool for 5 minutes.
– Drizzle the icing over the warm casserole and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing flavor and texture
– Soaking time for optimal flavor absorption: Letting the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes is key. This time allows the egg mixture to soak into the cinnamon rolls. It improves flavor and texture. If you skip this step, your rolls may taste dry.
– Using different milk options for dietary needs: You can use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk. This makes the dish suitable for lactose-free diets. Each milk adds its unique taste but keeps the casserole creamy.
Perfecting the bake
– How to know when it’s done cooking: The casserole is ready when the top turns golden brown. You can check by inserting a knife in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done. If it’s still wet, give it a few extra minutes.
– Avoiding soggy casserole: To prevent sogginess, ensure the rolls are well-coated but not swimming in the egg mixture. If your rolls sit too long, they can absorb too much liquid.
Serving suggestions
– Best ways to cut and serve: For easy serving, cut the casserole into squares. Use a spatula to lift each piece gently. This keeps the layers intact.
– Additional toppings for an upgraded experience: Drizzle with extra maple syrup or add fresh berries. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch too. You can also offer whipped cream for a sweeter treat.
Variations
Substituting ingredients
You can easily swap some ingredients in this recipe. For a dairy-free option, use almond milk instead of whole milk. You can also replace heavy cream with coconut cream. If you want to cut down on sugar, try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. These changes make the dish healthier but still tasty.
Flavor variations
Adding fruit makes this dish even better. You can toss in berries like strawberries or blueberries. Chopped apples also work great. They add a fresh taste and a nice texture. If you want to change up the spices, try using cardamom or ginger instead of cinnamon. These spices give the casserole a unique flavor.
Different serving ideas
This casserole is perfect for a breakfast buffet. You can cut it into squares and serve it warm. Set out extra maple syrup and powdered sugar for guests to add. For a savory twist, you can add cooked bacon or sausage. This change gives a nice contrast to the sweet rolls. You can also serve it with scrambled eggs for a full meal.
Storage Info
Short-term storage
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil. Place it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
Freezing instructions
You can freeze this casserole too! Cut it into squares before freezing. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating tips for best results
When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This will help keep it soft and tasty.
Serving suggestions for stored casserole
Before serving, add a drizzle of maple syrup to revive the flavor. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top for sweetness. Pair it with fresh berries or whipped cream for a fun treat!
FAQs
Commonly asked questions
Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can! To make this casserole ahead of time, follow the recipe steps but stop before baking. Cover the dish and place it in the fridge. In the morning, let it sit at room temp for about 30 minutes. Then, bake as directed. This saves time and builds flavor.
How do I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger crowd?
To adjust for a smaller crowd, cut the ingredients in half. Use one can of cinnamon rolls, three eggs, and reduce other ingredients accordingly. For a larger crowd, double the recipe. Use four cans of cinnamon rolls and twelve eggs. Just be sure to use a bigger baking dish.
Troubleshooting issues
What if my casserole is too dry?
If your casserole turns out dry, next time add more milk or cream to the egg mix. You can also soak the rolls longer in the egg mixture. This helps them absorb more liquid.
How can I fix a soggy casserole?
To fix a soggy casserole, try not to pour all the egg mixture at once. Pour slowly and let the rolls soak a bit first. You could also bake it a little longer. This helps to firm up the texture.
Ingredient substitutions
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use brioche, challah, or even croissants. Each type will add its own flavor. Just cut the bread into similar-sized pieces as the cinnamon rolls.
What alternatives do I have for eggs in this dish?
If you need an egg substitute, use a mix of flaxseed meal and water. For each egg, combine one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. You can also use unsweetened applesauce, with a quarter cup for each egg.
This blog post detailed a simple and delicious cinnamon roll casserole. We explored the ingredients, preparation steps, and baking tips. I shared variations and storage options to help you make this dish your own. In closing, this recipe is easy and flexible, perfect for any meal. With a few tweaks, it can fit anyone’s needs. Dive in and enjoy this sweet treat with your friends and family. Happy baking!
