Prepare to indulge in a breakfast treat that will leave your taste buds singing with delight – Cinnamon Roll Casserole! This decadent dish takes the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls and transforms them into a deliciously gooey and satisfying casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a special weekend brunch. With layers of fluffy cinnamon rolls, rich custard, and crunchy pecans, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this irresistible breakfast masterpiece in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter or baking spray
- 2 cans (12.4 oz each) Pillsbury® refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Garnish:
- Icing from cinnamon rolls
- Maple syrup (if desired) – I found it was sweet enough without it.
Instructions
Preparing the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter or baking spray.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and arrange them in the prepared baking dish.
Making the Custard Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, ground cinnamon, and vanilla until well combined.
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish, ensuring that all the rolls are coated.
Adding Toppings
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the casserole, distributing them evenly.
- Drizzle the maple syrup over the pecans for added sweetness.
Baking the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and set in the center.
Garnishing and Serving
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Drizzle the icing from the cinnamon rolls over the top of the casserole.
- Serve warm, drizzled with additional maple syrup if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole up to one day in advance. Simply assemble it as instructed, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings to your liking. You can add raisins, shredded coconut, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls or a gluten-free bread alternative to make this recipe gluten-free.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit in place of the maple syrup.
- Replace the Pillsbury refrigerated cinnamon rolls with homemade keto-friendly cinnamon rolls made from almond flour, coconut flour, and sugar-free sweetener.
- Substitute heavy whipping cream with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk to reduce the carb content.
Low-Carb Version
- Choose low-carb cinnamon rolls or a low-carb bread alternative for the base of the casserole.
- Use a sugar-free pancake syrup or a low-carb maple syrup substitute instead of traditional maple syrup.
- Reduce the amount of chopped pecans or omit them altogether to further reduce the carb content.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones? A: Yes, you can certainly use homemade cinnamon rolls if you prefer. Just make sure they are fully baked before using them in the casserole.
Q: Can I use different nuts in place of pecans? A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chopped walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for the pecans to suit your taste preferences.
Q: Can I skip the maple syrup in this recipe? A: Yes, you can omit the maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet casserole. The cinnamon rolls and icing provide plenty of sweetness on their own.
Q: Can I freeze leftover casserole? A: Yes, leftover casserole can be frozen for future enjoyment. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Cinnamon Roll Casserole is the ultimate indulgence for breakfast lovers everywhere. With its irresistible combination of fluffy cinnamon rolls, rich custard, and crunchy pecans, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates. Whether enjoyed as a special weekend treat or served as the star attraction at your next brunch gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to delight everyone at the table. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the sweet satisfaction of Cinnamon Roll Casserole – your taste buds will thank you!
Transform your breakfast routine with the decadent flavors of Cinnamon Roll Casserole and treat yourself to a morning meal that’s both comforting and unforgettable. With its simple preparation and stunning presentation, it’s the perfect way to start your day on a delicious note. So don’t hesitate – whip up a batch of this mouthwatering casserole and enjoy a breakfast experience that’s truly extraordinary. Bon appétit!
