Overnight cinnamon roll French toast bake is a deliciously creamy and sweet breakfast treat that combines soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls with the custardy goodness of French toast. It’s packed with warm cinnamon and hints of vanilla, making it the perfect cozy dish to wake up to on a lazy morning.
I love making this the night before because it saves so much time in the morning, and the flavors have a chance to soak in and get even better overnight. I always find that the cinnamon swirls and buttery glaze melt right into the custard, making every bite extra special and comforting.
My favorite way to serve it is with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar, maybe alongside some fresh fruit or a cup of hot coffee. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that feels like a little celebration on a weekday or weekend!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon rolls: The star of this dish! I like using store-bought ones for ease, but homemade cinnamon rolls add a fresh touch. If you want a healthier option, try whole wheat or low-sugar rolls.
Eggs & milk: These make the custard that soaks into the cinnamon rolls. You can swap whole milk for almond or oat milk to keep it dairy-free. For extra creaminess, use half-and-half.
Vanilla & cinnamon: They bring warmth and flavor to the custard. If you’re out of vanilla extract, a splash of maple syrup or almond extract works well too.
Glaze or syrup: The glaze from the cinnamon rolls is perfect for drizzling, but maple syrup or honey is a great alternative.
How Can You Make Sure the Cinnamon Rolls Soak Up the Custard Well?
To get the perfect texture, you want the cinnamon rolls to absorb the custard deeply without getting soggy. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut the rolls into bite-sized pieces for even soaking.
- Pour the custard slowly and press the pieces down gently so they soak evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 6 hours—this step is crucial!
- Remove from fridge before baking to help it bake evenly.
These tips help the bake become soft and creamy inside with a golden crust on top, making every bite just right.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9-inch baking dish – I prefer this size because it holds everything nicely and bakes evenly.
- Mixing bowl – for whisking together the custard ingredients; a simple, essential tool.
- Whisk – keeps everything smooth and well combined without lumps.
- Sharp knife – for cutting the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients accurately.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch and extra flavor.
- Mix in berries or sliced bananas before baking for fruity bursts.
- Use cream cheese in the custard for a richer, tangy twist.
- Sprinkle a little nutmeg or allspice to deepen the spice flavor.
Overnight Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6-8 cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade), cut into chunks
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (optional, for greasing)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup or cinnamon roll glaze, for serving
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and assemble, plus 6-12 hours of chilling overnight. Baking takes around 35-40 minutes, so plan ahead for a cozy morning treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Cinnamon Rolls
Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with melted butter or non-stick spray. Cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized chunks, then spread them evenly across the dish.
2. Make the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Combine and Chill Overnight
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Gently press the pieces down so they soak up the custard well. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours.
4. Bake Your French Toast Bake
When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dish from the fridge and bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is fully set.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the bake cool slightly before drizzling with the cinnamon roll glaze or maple syrup. Dust with powdered sugar if you like, and serve warm. Fresh berries on the side are a lovely touch!
Can I Use Frozen Cinnamon Rolls for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cutting and assembling. This helps the custard soak evenly and ensures it bakes properly.
Can I Prepare the French Toast Bake Without Refrigerating Overnight?
You can, but the flavors won’t meld as deeply and the custard won’t soak in as much. If short on time, let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking for better results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Warm individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving to keep it soft and delicious.
Can I Add Fruit or Nuts to the Bake?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen berries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add great texture and flavor. Just add them before pouring the custard over the cinnamon rolls.