Ohhh friend, let me tell you… this Overnight Cinnamon Roll Casserole is dangerously good. The kind of good that makes you sneak a second helping before anyone notices. The kind that fills your kitchen with that warm, buttery cinnamon-sugar aroma that practically hugs your soul. 🥰
This recipe was born out of one of those lazy Sunday mornings when the kids had sleepovers, and we had a house full of hungry bellies and sleepy faces. I didn’t want to be flipping pancakes at the stove all morning—I wanted something I could throw together the night before and just pop in the oven with a fresh cup of coffee in hand. This casserole delivers.
It’s gooey, fluffy, rich with cinnamon spice, and topped with the dreamiest vanilla icing drizzle. Every bite tastes like a warm hug and a good morning all in one. And the best part? It starts with a shortcut. (Yes, you can cheat a little, I won’t tell 😉)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ?
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it the night before, sleep in, and wake up to a breakfast that’s basically ready for you.
- Sweet & Spiced Comfort: It’s like a cinnamon roll, French toast, and bread pudding had a delicious little baby.
- Kid-Approved & Crowd-Friendly: Perfect for holidays, brunch parties, or just a slow Saturday with the family.
- Customizable: Want to add chopped pecans, a cream cheese drizzle, or a sprinkle of apple bits? Go wild!
Frequently Asked Questions❓
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you’ve got the time and energy, homemade dough will make this extra special. Just cut them into pieces before layering them in.
Can I make it the same day?
Yes, you can! Just let the casserole soak for at least 30 minutes before baking—though overnight gives the best flavor and texture.
Is it freezer-friendly?
You can freeze it after baking. Wrap well, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat covered at 300°F until warm.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (like Pillsbury Grands – the big ones! With icing included)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream (for that extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (trust me, we’re not shy here!)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (adds a beautiful depth of sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: Chopped pecans or walnuts for a little crunch
Tip: If you’re feeling fancy, swap the icing packets for homemade glaze or cream cheese drizzle. I’ve included a bonus glaze recipe down below if you want to go the extra mile.
Instructions:
- Grease your baking dish (a 9×13-inch works great) with butter or nonstick spray. Set it aside.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters (just take some kitchen scissors or a knife and snip away). Place the little cinnamon dough nuggets evenly in the dish.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, cinnamon, vanilla, both sugars, and melted butter. This is your rich custard base that soaks into the rolls overnight.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Gently press the pieces down with a spatula to help them soak up all that goodness.
- Cover tightly with foil and pop it in the fridge overnight (or at least 6 hours).
- The next morning, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temp for about 20 minutes while your oven preheats to 350°F.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (you can give it a jiggle to check).
- Warm up the icing packets in a bowl of hot water or microwave just a few seconds, then drizzle generously over the warm casserole.
- Optional: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or extra cinnamon on top for flair. If you’re using nuts, toss ’em on before baking so they toast up beautifully.
Pro Tips for Cinnamon Roll Casserole Success:
- Don’t skip the resting time in the morning. Letting it sit while the oven preheats helps everything bake evenly.
- Like it gooey? Pull it out at 35 minutes. Want it a little more set? Go the full 40–45 minutes.
- Extra icing = extra joy. If you’re an icing lover, make a quick glaze with 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk + ½ tsp vanilla.
- Make it your own: Add apple chunks, raisins, or even a sprinkle of nutmeg for an autumn twist.
Storage & Serving Ideas:
- Storage: Once cooled, cover tightly and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 30 seconds. Add a fresh drizzle of icing if you saved some!
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair it with crispy bacon or sausage links for that sweet & savory balance.
- Serve with fresh berries or fruit salad to lighten it up.
- A big mug of coffee or hot cocoa alongside? Yes, please. ☕️
🥄 Let’s Wrap This Up
This Overnight Cinnamon Roll Casserole has become one of our most-loved breakfast traditions, especially during the holidays and cozy weekends. There’s just something magical about the smell of cinnamon filling the house while everyone’s still in their pajamas.
If you give it a try, I’d love to hear what you think! Did you add any twists? Did your crew go back for seconds? Let me know in the comments below—I always enjoy swapping kitchen stories with you!
Now go grab that casserole dish, friend… your morning just got a whole lot sweeter. 💛
