Cinnamon Roll French Toast: The Most Irresistible Brunch Casserole You’ll Ever Bake

Few breakfasts deliver cozy comfort and indulgent sweetness like Cinnamon Roll French Toast. This recipe combines the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls with the rich custard of classic French toast—creating a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re hosting holiday brunch, feeding a crowd, or just treating yourself on a slow weekend, this easy casserole is guaranteed to impress.

In this article, we’ll explore what makes cinnamon roll French toast so special, break down the ingredients you need, walk you through every step of making it (including variations), and share expert tips to help you nail it every single time. Looking for inspiration? Try our Mini Dutch Baby Pancakes if you’re craving even more breakfast magic.

JUMP TO

Table of Contents

Why Cinnamon Roll French Toast Is the Ultimate Indulgence

A sweet mashup of two breakfast classics

Cinnamon roll French toast merges the buttery, cinnamon-sugar spirals of your favorite pastries with the velvety custard of French toast. The result? A hybrid breakfast bake that’s golden and crisp on the edges, but soft and creamy on the inside. And when topped with icing or maple syrup, every bite hits that sweet spot between nostalgic and gourmet.

The perfect dish for holidays and lazy brunches

This casserole shines brightest when shared. It’s ideal for Easter brunch, Christmas morning, Mother’s Day, or any cozy Sunday gathering. Unlike traditional French toast, which requires constant flipping at the stove, this baked version is hands-off—freeing you up to mingle or relax with a cup of coffee. Plus, it smells absolutely divine while it bakes.

Casserole vs pan-fried: which version is best?

While the baked version feels like a warm bread pudding, you can also pan-fry slices of cinnamon roll French toast for a crispier exterior. Just slice baked cinnamon rolls in half, dip them in custard, and fry in butter like classic French toast. It’s a fun way to use leftovers or create single servings when you don’t need a whole casserole.

Check out our Hawaiian Roll French Toast for another unique twist on breakfast bakes.

Ingredients You Need for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Essential pantry staples

This recipe is beautifully simple, yet decadent. Here’s what you’ll need to pull it off:

• Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing packet) – brands like Pillsbury or Immaculate work well
• Eggs – to create the rich custard base
• Milk – whole milk preferred for creaminess
• Vanilla extract – adds warm depth of flavor
• Ground cinnamon – essential for boosting that cinnamon swirl taste
• Maple syrup – stirred into the custard for sweetness
• Unsalted butter – for greasing the baking dish and adding richness

This small ingredient list means you can whip this up with minimal prep. Just a few pantry and fridge staples transform into a holiday-worthy brunch.

Easy swaps and substitutions

Whether you’re short on ingredients or accommodating dietary needs, this recipe is flexible:

• Egg replacements like Just Egg work well (use 3 tbsp per egg)
• Non-dairy milk (like oat, almond, or coconut) can replace regular milk
• Honey or agave can substitute for maple syrup
• Coconut oil or vegan butter may replace dairy butter
• Gluten-free cinnamon rolls are also an option if you’re avoiding wheat

These swaps don’t compromise the flavor or texture—so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

Choosing the best store-bought cinnamon rolls

The base of this dish is the cinnamon roll itself, so choosing the right one makes a big difference. For best results:

• Opt for jumbo-style refrigerated rolls with plenty of icing
• Use day-old or slightly stale rolls for better absorption in pan-fried versions
• If using homemade rolls, make sure they’re fully cooled and slightly firm

Don’t miss our Biscuits and Gravy Breakfast Casserole for another hearty brunch classic that uses simple, store-bought ingredients in a smart way.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Roll French Toast

How to bake it as a casserole

This version is hands-off and perfect for feeding a crowd. Here’s how to do it:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for 20–30 minutes. Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.
2. Cut the refrigerated cinnamon rolls into 6–8 pieces each. Place them evenly in the baking dish.
3. Make the custard by whisking together 3 large eggs, ¼ cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp cinnamon, and ½ cup maple syrup.
4. Pour the custard over the cinnamon roll pieces. Let it sit for 5 minutes so it soaks in slightly.
5. Bake for 25 minutes or until the custard is set and the edges are golden. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not liquid.
6. Cool for 10–15 minutes, then drizzle with the reserved icing packet.

This baked method results in a bread pudding texture that’s indulgent yet easy enough for weekday mornings.

Pan-fried variation: classic French toast style

If you prefer the traditional stovetop version, try this twist:

1. Use baked and cooled cinnamon rolls, sliced in half horizontally.
2. Whisk together 2 eggs, ¼ cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla, and 1 tsp cinnamon.
3. Dip each roll slice in the custard mixture briefly—don’t let them soak too long.
4. Heat butter in a nonstick skillet and fry each slice for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
5. Serve with icing, fresh berries, or maple syrup.

This version is faster for small servings and delivers crispy edges with a creamy center.

Time-saving tips and prep-ahead options

If you’re hosting or want a stress-free morning, here’s how to prep ahead:

• Make it the night before: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake straight from the fridge (add 5–10 mins to bake time).
• Freeze leftovers: Cool completely, wrap in plastic and foil, and freeze for up to a month.
• Reheat in oven or microwave: Bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions for 45–60 seconds.

Discover great ideas like our Breakfast Rolls Recipe if you’re a fan of easy, prep-ahead morning meals.

Topping Ideas and Serving Suggestions

Elevate it with icing, syrup, and more

This dish already packs flavor, but toppings can take it to the next level. Here are crowd-favorite options:

• Drizzle the icing packet over the warm casserole
• Warm maple syrup adds a rich finish
• Whipped cream or cream cheese frosting make it more dessert-like
• Fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices add color and freshness
• Chopped pecans or walnuts offer crunch and balance the sweetness

Want to turn your table into a brunch buffet? Don’t miss our Cinnamon Amish Bread Recipe for another cinnamon-swirled classic to serve alongside.

Kid-friendly add-ons and holiday twists

Make it fun and festive for the little ones or themed brunches:

• Add holiday sprinkles to the icing for Christmas or Easter
• Serve with a side of cinnamon sugar bacon for a sweet-savory combo
• Use colored icing (tinted with natural food coloring) for a birthday brunch
• Top with mini chocolate chips or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving

These little extras are simple to add but make a big impression—especially during holiday mornings or birthday breakfasts.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Instructions

Keep it fresh for days

Once baked, your cinnamon roll French toast will keep well in the fridge.

• Cool completely before covering
• Store in an airtight container or cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap
• It’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator

How to freeze for a make-ahead brunch

Want to bake it in advance and serve it later?

• Cool completely after baking
• Wrap the dish in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil
• Store in the freezer for up to 1 month

Label with the date and reheating instructions for extra ease.

Best ways to reheat without drying it out

No one wants dry French toast. Here’s how to reheat it right:

• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through
• Microwave: Heat individual portions for 45–60 seconds
• Add a splash of milk or drizzle of syrup before reheating to retain moisture

Looking for something savory to pair it with? Check out our Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Roll-Ups for the perfect salty side.

FAQs About Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Conclusion: Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Your Next Family Favorite

Cinnamon Roll French Toast isn’t just breakfast—it’s a celebration of everything we love about slow mornings, comfort food, and indulgent flavor. Whether you serve it for a special occasion or a cozy weekend, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. With minimal ingredients, easy prep, and big flavor, it’s destined to become a brunch staple in your home.

Check out our Mini Dutch Baby Pancakes if you’re craving more show-stopping breakfast recipes!

Print