Breakfast Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe (canned rolls)
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You won’t believe how simple it is to create a breakfast masterpiece that tastes like it took hours to prepare. You can turn a humdrum can of store-bought cinnamon rolls into a heavenly breakfast cinnamon casserole recipe! Sure to become a family favorite!
It’s true! Canned cinnamon rolls are easily transformed into a golden brown casserole that is both gooey and delicious. Just one taste of this brown sugar, cinnamon and custardy dish, and you’ll be saying “Yes I CAN!”. See for yourself why these are even better than the viral TikTok cinnamon rolls you may have heard about!
I enjoy giving precise details in my recipe posts to lead my readers through any questions. If you’re just here for the printable recipe, feel free to click “Jump to Recipe” right under the title of this post, and you’ll head straight there!
Why You Will Love These Homemade Cinnamon Rolls
- Easy Recipe | 15-minute prep! The taste of homemade in half the time!
- Simple Ingredients | Nothing fancy, nothing complicated.
- Fresh Cooky Twist | Just a few extra ingredients to take this viral recipe up a notch!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Cinnamon Rolls
Ingredients, directions and nutritional information in the printable recipe card at the end of the post.
- Canned Cinnamon Rolls | I used organic canned cinnamon rolls; check out which cinnamon rolls are the best; I tested a lot!
- Eggs | I use large eggs in my baking; room temperature. If you forget to take them out, set in warm water for 5 minutes.
- Heavy Whipping Cream | You may also use half and half, whole milk or plant-based milks.
- Maple Syrup | Use 100% maple syrup; only the best for my favorite recipes!
- Spices | Cinnamon and nutmeg are classics for cinnamon rolls; you may also omit nutmeg.
- Vanilla Extract | If it’s in the budget, use natural vanilla.
Recommended Tools
- My favorite 9×13 ceramic baking dish!
- Batter bowl, love this brand, beauty and functionality!
- You need a good whisk!
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Rolls
Step 1 | Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C ) and to prevent the rolls from sticking to the bottom of the pan, make sure to generously grease or butter a 9×13 inch baking dish, or split it into two smaller 9×9 baking dishes.
Grab your canned Grands cinnamon rolls (or favorite organic brand) and cut each one into four pieces. Don’t forget to set aside the included icing packets for later!
Step 2 | Prepare Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, salt, and maple syrup. This will be the base for your custard mixture.
Cinnamon Roll Casserole with Heavy Cream
Heavy cream makes these cinnamon rolls! Other milk and cream mixtures will work, but I found heavy cream is best, it adds tenderness to the cinnamon roll and a lighter texture.
Step 3 | Add & Pour
Add the chopped-up cinnamon roll dough to the egg batter and gently toss to make sure each piece is fully coated. Then, pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Step 4 | Bake
Place your dish on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it after about 20 minutes, and if the cinnamon rolls are browning too quickly, cover the dish lightly with a sheet of aluminum foil.
Once the rolls have sprung back lightly and the custard is cooked in the middle, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before glazing.
Step 5 | Frosting
If you’d like to add some extra sweetness, pour the contents of the frosting packets into a small bowl. Add an additional teaspoon of vanilla for some extra flavor! Whisk it all together and drizzle it over the top of the rolls. Or enhance it by adding a little butter and cream cheese along with the extra vanilla. It’s a great way to get a semi-homemade taste.
To really take things up a notch, you can slather some cream cheese frosting on top of the cinnamon rolls. Whip up a half batch of my Cinnabon Cream Cheese Frosting and serve it alongside your casserole and let your breakfast eaters slather it on.
Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole (Slow Cooker)
These delicious rolls can also be made in a Slow Cooker! Check out my Crock pot Cinnamon Roll casserole recipe for another easy way to make a slightly different (but equally amazing) Cinnamon Roll Casserole.
Pro Tips
- To get the best texture and flavor, use higher-end canned cinnamon rolls. Trust me, I tested it!
- Grease your baking dish with butter for the most tender and delicious cinnamon rolls. I also found that butter helped prevent burning and added a richer flavor and texture.
Variations
- Apple cinnamon Roll Casserole | Try layering fresh sliced apples (tossed with a little sugar and cinnamon) between the cinnamon roll layers, or stirring in a can of apple pie filling for an extra delicious twist.
- Add a Topping | Make up a quick topping of 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup pecans and 1/2 -1 tsp of cinnamon and sprinkle before baking for extra cinnamon flavor and crunch.
- Lighten it up | Replace the heavy cream with half and half, whole milk, or even coconut milk or other plant-based options.
- Try drizzling some Caramel Sauce (vanilla bourbon) and make it an extra special warm dessert, or this lick your plate clean, easy Vanilla Sauce.
What are the best canned cinnamon rolls?
I did the testing of canned cinnamon rolls for you! My family and taste testers are picky, so you can be assured these are the best.
- I tried using a regular can of Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and it was a disaster. The rolls ended up burnt on the outside and raw on the inside, with hardly any flavor. So just a heads up, you may not like your results if you use them.
- I also tested using other brands like Pillsbury Grands cinnamon rolls, Annie’s Organic, Simple Truth Organic, and Trader Joe’s Organic. My taste testers weren’t crazy about the Grands cinnamon rolls recipe, but they loved the other three organic brands. So, I recommend investing in a higher-quality canned cinnamon roll – it’s worth the extra money, trust me!
- And while I haven’t tried using frozen cinnamon roll dough like Rhodes, similar to but different than traditional monkey bread. Using a sharp knife, cut them into quarters the night before and let them thaw overnight with the custard, a great overnight method.
- So there you have it, some tips and tricks to ensure you make the best Grands cinnamon roll breakfast casserole possible. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious breakfast!
Tips for Two
- Serving a smaller group…or afraid you’ll eat the whole batch? Use one can of cinnamon rolls and a 9×9 baking dish, and cut the rest of your ingredients in half. Or make two pans, and freeze one after baking and cooling!
Storage Tips
This breakfast casserole is best fresh from the oven, but if you have leftovers…
- Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container on the counter for two days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months if stored correctly in an airtight container.
- Reheat single portions for 20-30 seconds in the microwave or place in an oven-safe dish covered with aluminum foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes in a 350° F (177° C) oven until soft and warmed. Add a little pat of butter or an extra slather of cream cheese icing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use homemade cinnamon rolls. Once finished making your roll, chop each roll into quarters and proceed. Try my ooey-gooey cinnamon rolls.
Yes! Prepare the custard the night before and refrigerate it in a covered bowl. Add the dough pieces right before baking. Allow the casserole dish to reach room temperature for 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. Note: Assembling it completely the night before is not recommended unless you are using frozen cinnamon rolls.
If you use regular Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and only oil the baking dish instead of buttering it, your casserole might end up with burnt edges. But if you end up with burnt edges, don’t worry! You can still salvage your cinnamon roll casserole by eating around the burnt parts. Drizzle some extra frosting or melted butter to add to the deliciousness.
Cover with aluminum foil and cook on low for another 5-10 minutes.
Can I double this cinnamon casserole recipe?
Absolutely! I still recommend dividing it and baking it in two different pans to ensure more even baking.
Try chopping your cinnamon rolls into quarters before you assemble the custard ingredients. This helps them come closer to room temperature, allowing them to rise and ensure more baking.
Our Favorite Sweet Breakfast Treats
- Honey Bran Muffins (Mimis Copycat) – Tastes just like them!
- Orange Scones (Panera Copycat) – One of our most popular recipes!
- Gluten-Free Cinnamon Crumb Coffee Cake Recipe – You cannot mess this coffee cake up!
- The best Banana Bread – ever!!
Best Breakfasts to Serve with Cinnamon Rolls
If you’d like to serve something alongside your breakfast cinnamon breakfast casserole, here are a few of my favorites, and check out all my breakfast recipes!
Harvest Grain and Nut Pancake Recipe (IHOP Copycat)
You'll love the hearty texture and signature flavor of buttermilk in these healthy pancakes. Whole wheat flour, nuts and oats, this copycat IHOP Harvest Grain Pancake recipe is delicious! Top with butter and maple syrup for a hearty breakfast.
Easy Hatch Green Chile Relleno Casserole Recipe
Best Chile Relleno Casserole is an easy, delicious vegetarian dish made with Monterey Jack cheese stuffed whole roasted chiles, topped with an egg, milk batter, topped with more cheese, then baked to fluffy perfection. Easily adapted to be gluten free.
We love breakfast in our house; you might try this Pancake Charcuterie Board, this easy air fryer sausage, and this yummy Sausage and Biscuit Casserole.
Best Chili to Serve with Cinnamon Rolls
Has Cinnamon Rolls and Chili ever been a more glorious combination of foods? There is just something about the two together that brings back wonderful childhood memories! Check out all of our favorite Soups & Stews.
Firecracker Chili | Best Chili Recipe Ever
Spicy, but not HOT Firecracker cinnamon chili. Give this delicious, but unusually spiced chili a try, adding shredded zucchini to increase the nutritional value and flavor! A healthy best ever chili recipe1
Colorado Green Chile
Easy Colorado Green Chile recipe using tasty New Mexico roasted Hatch green chiles, jalapeños, pork, tomatoes and spices; slow cooked to release the best flavors! Rich, thick Colorado Green Chile can be served alone like a chili or soup, used for smothering, in enchiladas, with eggs and potatoes or as a side for any Mexican dish!
So if you’re in the mood for some delicious, warm, gooey homemade cinnamon rolls, try this easy recipe for Cinnamon Roll Casserole. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether hosting Easter brunch, an easy Christmas morning surprise or just looking for a sweet treat.
I hope you loved this Grands Cinnamon Rolls Recipe — if you did, would you share your creation on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest? And be sure to comment below!
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Breakfast Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe (canned rolls)
Ingredients
- 2 17.5 ounce cans cinnamon rolls, canned cinnamon rolls, my favorites are Annie's, Trader Joe's and Simple Truth organic.
- 3 large eggs, room temperature, forget? Sit them in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, half and half
- 3-4 tablespoons maple syrup, pure syrup is best, I used 3
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and make sure to generously grease or butter a 9×13 inch baking dish, or split it into two smaller 9×9 baking dishes.
- Next, grab your cinnamon rolls and cut each one into four pieces. Don't forget to set aside the frosting packets for later!
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, salt, and maple syrup. This will be the base for your custard mixture.
- Add the chopped-up cinnamon rolls to the egg batter and gently toss to make sure each piece is fully coated. Then, pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
- Place your dish on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You'll want to keep an eye on it after about 20 minutes, and if the cinnamon rolls are browning too quickly, cover the dish lightly with a sheet of aluminum foil.
- Once the rolls have sprung back lightly and the custard is cooked in the middle, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before glazing.
- If you'd like to add some extra sweetness, pour the contents of the frosting packets into a small bowl. Add an additional teaspoon of vanilla for some extra flavor! Whisk it all together and drizzle it over your warm cinnamon roll casserole.
- Whip up a half batch of my Cinnabon Cream Cheese Frosting and serve it alongside your casserole and let your breakfast eaters slather it on or see notes to augment the canned frosting.
✱ Kathleen’s Tips
- 2 icing packets (from canned cinnamon rolls)
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
- Store any leftover cinnamon rolls in an airtight container on the counter for two days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months if stored correctly in an airtight container.
- Reheat single portions for 20-30 seconds in the microwave or place in an oven-safe dish covered with aluminum foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes in a 350° F (177° C) oven until soft and warmed. Add a little pat of butter or an extra slather of cream cheese icing.
-
- Apples and cinnamon rolls. Layer fresh sliced apples (tossed with a little sugar and cinnamon) between the cinnamon roll layers, or stir in a can of apple pie filling.
- Make up a quick topping of 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup pecans and 1/2 -1 tsp of cinnamon and sprinkle before baking for extra cinnamon flavor and crunch.
- Replace the heavy cream with half and half, whole milk, or even coconut milk or other plant-based options.
- Drizzle some Caramel Sauce (vanilla bourbon).
Nutrition
Nutrition Disclaimer
The Fresh Cooky is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is only an estimate. We recommend running the ingredients through an online nutritional calculator if you need to verify any information.
About Kathleen Pope
Recipe Innovator | Food Photographer | Food Writer
Hi, I’m Kathleen Pope. Here at The Fresh Cooky you will find easy, mostly from-scratch, trusted recipes for all occasions. From speedy dinners to tasty desserts, with easy step-by-step instructions. I am here to help teach you how to make mouthwatering recipes without spending hours in the kitchen. Read more about Kathleen here.
That was such a scrumptious breakfast! My children raged on the casserole! Thanks for sharing!
So glad you loved it!
Talk about delish! Love the idea of a short cut of the canned cinnamon rolls! Total Boss move…and gonna use this for the next breakfast casserole party!!
Right!!
Omg this cinnamon roll casserole is to die for!! So gooey and decadent, the perfect weekend brunch treat for my family!
Thanks so much, Anjali!
These were absolutely scrumptious! Thanks for giving recommended brands because I would have used the pillsbury – I used Annies and it turned out perfect.
So glad to hear, Cyndy!
What a lifesaver! Perfect for busy weekends when you want to make something special, but don’t want to stay up late prepping yeast rolls. Super easy, and we love the apple pie option! Thank you!
Thank you!
I made this delish dish for Easter morning brunch and it was a hit! Prepped/baked the same morning, allowing ~30 mins for baking time. It was room temp by the time it was served but it still tasted great. I used Annie’s Organics canned rolls as recommended by Kathleen: it was difficult to cut them into exactly quarters (they tend to fall apart as you cut them) but ultimately it didn’t matter. One of our guests looked at the finished pan and said “ooo, monkey bread” so it has that type of appearance once baked. After it cooled, I squeezed half (ish) of one of the frosting packets over the top for some extra sweetness and it was plenty. The custard base added great flavor and texture to the finished dish. 10/10 recommend: easy, tasty and a hit for any breakfast/brunch!
Thank you so much, Caitlin! So appreciate your kind words! Hope you had a lovely Easter!