Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake is the perfect mix of two breakfast favorites rolled into one cozy dish. Imagine soft, gooey cinnamon roll dough baked together with rich, custardy eggs and a hint of sweet cinnamon-spice throughout. It’s warm, sweet, and comforting—like a big breakfast hug.
I love making this bake the night before and popping it in the oven in the morning. It means less rush and more time to enjoy your breakfast with the people you love. Plus, the cinnamon and buttery flavors get even better after sitting overnight, making every bite extra delicious. I always find that it fills the house with the kind of aroma that makes you happy just waking up.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze on top or a little dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty finish. It goes great with fresh fruit or a cup of coffee, and it’s a total crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding a family or having friends over. This cinnamon roll French toast bake is such a simple way to bring some special warmth to your morning.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon Rolls: These add the soft, sweet base of the dish. If you don’t have canned rolls, you can use homemade cinnamon rolls or even brioche bread with cinnamon sugar sprinkled on top.
Eggs & Dairy: Eggs, milk, and cream make the custard rich and creamy. For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for more milk or use a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
Vanilla and Cinnamon: Vanilla extract deepens the flavor, and cinnamon gives that classic warm spiced taste. You can adjust cinnamon to your liking or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Sugar: Granulated sugar helps sweeten the custard but you can reduce it if you prefer less sweetness or use a sugar substitute like maple syrup or honey.
How Do You Get the Bread Perfectly Soaked without Getting Soggy?
The soaking step is key for creamy French toast bake texture, but timing matters.
- Cutting cinnamon rolls into quarters helps the custard reach every part.
- Pour the egg mixture slowly and press gently on the bread pieces so they absorb the custard.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight — this allows deep soaking without becoming mushy.
- A longer soak means a custard-like center, but too long could make it too soft, so don’t leave it longer than overnight.
- After baking, letting it cool a bit helps it set and hold its shape without collapsing.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9 inch baking dish – I like this size because it’s just the right amount for a family breakfast and fits easily in the oven.
- Mixing bowls – for whisking the custard mixture; a medium size works well.
- Whisk – to combine the eggs, milk, and spices smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for准确 measurements of ingredients.
- Plastic wrap – to cover and refrigerate the dish overnight if needed.
- Oven – of course, for baking this delicious casserole.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Orange zest and juice – add a splash to the custard for a citrus twist that pairs nicely with cinnamon.
- Nuts (like pecans or walnuts) – sprinkle on top before baking for a crunch in every bite.
- Fruits – mix chopped apples, berries, or sliced bananas into the cinnamon roll pieces for added flavor and texture.
- Different spices – try a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to give a unique flavor boost.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cans (12 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter, for greasing the baking dish
Optional:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour to overnight for soaking, and 35-40 minutes of baking time. It’s best to prepare it the night before and bake it fresh in the morning, making breakfast stress-free and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Cinnamon Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish lightly with butter. Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and separate each roll. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and spread the pieces evenly in the greased dish.
2. Mix the Custard:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Pour and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently press down with a spatula so the pieces soak up the custard. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best soaking results.
4. Bake the French Toast:
Remove the dish from the refrigerator and take off the plastic wrap. Bake it in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once baked, let it cool slightly. Drizzle the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls over the top in pretty zigzag lines. You can also dust with powdered sugar if you like. Serve warm and enjoy your sweet, custardy breakfast treat!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, it’s best to prepare the bake the night before and refrigerate it so the cinnamon rolls soak up the custard fully. Then simply bake it fresh in the morning for a warm, delicious breakfast.
Can I Use Frozen Cinnamon Rolls?
You can, but be sure to thaw them completely before cutting and assembling. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature to ensure even soaking and baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through for tasty, leftover French toast.
Can I Add Fruit or Nuts to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Try folding in chopped apples, berries, or nuts like pecans before soaking to add extra flavor and texture. Just sprinkle evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces before pouring the custard.