A warm, gooey cinnamon roll casserole perfect for breakfast or dessert!
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
Dietary Badges
- Vegetarian
- Nut-Free (if using nut-free cinnamon rolls)
Ingredients List
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing packet)
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with butter.
- Unroll or cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the cinnamon roll pieces evenly in the baking dish.
- Melt butter and mix with brown sugar and cinnamon. Drizzle over the cinnamon roll pieces.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- While still warm, drizzle the included icing packet or homemade icing over the casserole.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Additional Notes
- Use fresh cinnamon rolls for best texture.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- Can be served as breakfast or dessert!
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven to start your day right. This Baked Cinnamon Roll Casserole takes the classic treat and turns it into a hands-off, shareable delight that’s perfect for busy mornings or cozy weekends. Using store-bought cinnamon rolls makes this recipe a breeze, but the gooey, buttery, cinnamon-sugar topping ensures it feels homemade and indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Cinnamon Rolls
- Start by greasing your baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
- Cut or unroll your cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces to ensure even baking and maximum gooeyness.
Adding the Topping
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl. Mix in brown sugar and ground cinnamon. This sweet, spiced butter mixture will soak into the cinnamon rolls as they bake.
- Drizzle evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces before baking.
Baking
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly around the edges (about 20-25 minutes). Keep an eye to avoid burning.
Icing It Up
- Once out of the oven, use the icing packet included with the cinnamon rolls or make your own icing with powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle liberally while the casserole is still warm for that signature sweet finish.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips
- Cinnamon Rolls: Store-bought refrigerated rolls work great for convenience. For a fresher taste, use homemade cinnamon rolls if you have time.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps brown the topping. Use unsalted for more control over saltiness.
- Brown Sugar: Provides sweetness and moisture, but you can substitute with coconut sugar for a different flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon: Essential for the classic cinnamon roll flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds depth to the butter topping but is not required.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Add nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for crunch.
- Add fruit: Mix in some raisins or chopped apples with the cinnamon rolls before baking.
- Make it vegan: Use vegan butter and a vegan cinnamon roll dough (available at specialty stores).
- Serving: Pair with fresh fruit, a cup of coffee, or a cold glass of milk for the ultimate comfort breakfast.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information
- Store leftover casserole covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or oven until warm and gooey again.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbs: 45g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 15g
- Sugar: 25g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
A: Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will add a personal touch and may need slightly different baking times.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls or make your own gluten-free dough.
Q: What if my casserole is too dry?
A: Add a bit more melted butter or a splash of milk to the topping mixture next time for extra moisture.
Personal Story and Notes
I first made this casserole when I wanted a quick, hands-off way to enjoy cinnamon rolls without waiting for each roll to bake individually. It’s become a go-to for busy weekend breakfasts and a fun recipe to share with friends and family. Plus, it’s almost impossible to stop eating once it’s out of the oven — it’s that good!
Reader Interaction
Have you tried this casserole? What’s your favorite cinnamon roll variation? Drop a comment below and let me know! Don’t forget to rate and share if you loved this recipe!
