Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake Recipe
This indulgent Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake combines the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the fluffy texture of French toast. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a special holiday treat.
Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Ingredients
For the Bake:
2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (or substitute with half-and-half for extra creaminess)
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
For the Topping:
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
2 tbsp melted butter
2 tbsp brown sugar
Optional Garnishes:
Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Fresh fruit (e.g., berries or sliced bananas)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
- Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and set aside the icing packets for later.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and evenly distribute them across the prepared baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
- Pour the mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring all pieces are coated.
Step 3: Add Topping (Optional)
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and brown sugar. Drizzle this mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Sprinkle the chopped nuts evenly over the top if you’re using them.
Step 4: Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cinnamon rolls are golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Add Icing
- Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Warm the reserved icing packets in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them easier to drizzle.
- Drizzle the icing over the top of the bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or an extra sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Add fresh fruit on top for a bright contrast to the sweetness.
Make-Ahead Instructions
You can assemble the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake the night before:
- Prepare the dish through Step 3, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- When ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking as directed.
Tips and Variations
Cinnamon Roll Substitutes: If you prefer homemade cinnamon rolls, feel free to use those instead of canned rolls.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond milk or oat milk, and swap the cream for coconut cream.
Extra Flavors: Add 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract or a handful of chocolate chips for a twist.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls if available.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake is:
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy mornings or feeding a crowd.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to dietary needs and personal tastes.
Deliciously Comforting: Combines the best parts of two classic breakfast dishes.
Enjoy this sweet, warm, and decadent treat that’s sure to become a favorite at your table!
