Cozy Christmas Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe Perfect for Holidays

Introduction

The warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon swirling through the air, mingling with the sweet, buttery scent of freshly baked dough—it’s the kind of smell that instantly screams, “Christmas morning is here!” The first time I made this Cozy Christmas Cinnamon Roll Casserole, it was a chilly December morning, and I was looking for something special to serve my family. As soon as I pulled the golden-brown casserole out of the oven, I knew I had found something magical. It was the kind of recipe that had everyone crowding around the table, forks at the ready, begging for seconds.

There’s something about this dish that feels like a warm embrace. It’s rich, gooey, and has just the right hint of spice to put you in the holiday spirit. My kids couldn’t stop sneaking bites while I was trying to snap a photo for my recipe journal, and my husband declared it his new favorite holiday breakfast. (Honestly, I can’t blame them—it’s that good.)

Perfect for Christmas mornings, brunch gatherings, or even as a cozy dessert, this cinnamon roll casserole has quickly become a must-have during the festive season for my family. After testing it a handful of times—purely in the name of research, of course—it’s now a staple I can’t imagine the holidays without. Bookmark this recipe because once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat every Christmas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 45 minutes, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the holiday magic.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like cinnamon rolls, eggs, and milk—no special grocery trips required.
• Perfect for Holiday Gatherings: Ideal for Christmas brunch, potlucks, or even as a festive dessert.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone from toddlers to grandparents will rave about this indulgent, comforting dish.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of soft, gooey cinnamon rolls, creamy custard, and a drizzle of icing is pure holiday perfection.

What sets this recipe apart is how it transforms pre-made cinnamon rolls into something utterly magical. By layering them in a casserole dish and infusing them with a rich custard, the result is a dessert-meets-breakfast mashup that’s soft, decadent, and loaded with holiday flavor. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or enjoying a quiet morning at home, this dish will bring smiles all around. It’s comforting, festive, and couldn’t be easier to whip up!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a rich and festive casserole that’s perfect for Christmas morning.

• 2 cans (12.4 oz each) of refrigerated cinnamon rolls: These are the star of the show. Use your favorite brand for the best flavor.
• 4 large eggs: They create the custard base that makes this casserole extra creamy.
• 1 cup (240 ml) of whole milk: Adds richness to the custard. You can substitute with almond milk if needed.
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: For an extra pop of warm spice.
• ⅓ cup (40 g) of powdered sugar: For the optional glaze drizzle.
• 2 tablespoons of milk: To thin out the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.

These ingredients are easy to find and work together beautifully to create a dish that feels special without any fuss. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even swap out the cinnamon rolls for apple-filled rolls or pumpkin spice rolls for a fun twist!

Equipment Needed

To make this Cozy Christmas Cinnamon Roll Casserole, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• 9×13-inch baking dish: Perfect for layering the cinnamon rolls and custard.
• Whisk: For mixing the custard ingredients evenly.
• Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl works great for preparing the custard.
• Sharp knife: To cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces.
• Spatula: Handy for spreading the glaze over the baked casserole.

If you don’t have a 9×13-inch baking dish, you can use two smaller dishes or even a deep pie pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly and keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Open the cinnamon roll cans and separate the rolls. Cut each roll into quarters and place the pieces evenly across the baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, making sure they’re all coated with the custard.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. The foil helps to prevent the top from browning too quickly while ensuring the custard sets properly.
6. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. While the casserole is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Add more milk if needed to achieve a drizzle-like consistency.
8. Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Drizzle the glaze over the top while it’s still warm for the ultimate gooey finish.
9. Serve warm and enjoy the festive flavors with your loved ones!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tips to ensure your cinnamon roll casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Don’t skip the foil: Covering the casserole for the first part of baking ensures the custard sets without drying out the top.
• Check for doneness: The casserole is ready when the center no longer jiggles and a toothpick comes out clean.
• Use room-temperature eggs: They blend better with the milk and vanilla, creating a smoother custard.
• Customize the glaze: Add a dash of maple syrup or almond extract to the glaze for a unique holiday twist.
• Prep ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it fresh in the morning for an easy holiday breakfast.

With a few simple tweaks, you’ll have a cinnamon roll casserole that’s perfectly tailored to your holiday needs!

Variations & Adaptations

Here are some fun ways to make this recipe your own:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls and ensure the powdered sugar is certified gluten-free.
• Seasonal Twist: Swap out cinnamon rolls for pumpkin spice rolls or apple-filled rolls for an autumn-inspired variation.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk or coconut milk for the custard, and use a dairy-free powdered sugar glaze.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the casserole before baking for added crunch.
• Extra Festive: Add a sprinkle of red and green sugar sprinkles to the glaze for a fun holiday touch.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish truly yours. It’s a versatile recipe that can adapt to your family’s favorite flavors!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cinnamon roll casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. Pair it with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for the ultimate cozy breakfast or brunch experience.

• Serving: Slice into squares and serve with an extra drizzle of icing if desired. A dollop of whipped cream can take it to the next level!
• Storage: Cover any leftovers tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or reheat the whole casserole in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through.

The flavors deepen as it sits, so leftovers are just as delicious—if not more—than the first bite!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional highlights for this recipe:

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving.
• Protein: Packed with protein thanks to the eggs and milk in the custard.
• Carbohydrates: Perfect for a quick energy boost during busy holiday mornings.
• Allergens: Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs—be sure to check ingredient labels for specifics.

While it’s undeniably indulgent, this casserole is a great way to treat yourself and loved ones during the holidays. You can make adjustments for dietary needs without sacrificing flavor!

Conclusion

This Cozy Christmas Cinnamon Roll Casserole is the kind of recipe that brings people together. It’s warm, comforting, and full of holiday cheer. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or just looking for a special breakfast to enjoy with your family, this dish is sure to be a hit. I love how easy it is to whip up, and the flavors never fail to impress.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how you customize it! Did you add nuts or switch up the glaze? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your variations! Wishing you a holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and delicious memories around the table.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh the next morning for a stress-free breakfast.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated ones?

Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will work beautifully. Just ensure they’re fully cooked before adding the custard mixture.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Wrap tightly and store for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through.

What’s the best way to customize the glaze?

Try adding a splash of maple syrup, a pinch of nutmeg, or even some orange zest to the glaze for a unique holiday twist.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

Yes, with a few substitutions! Use vegan cinnamon rolls, dairy-free milk, and a flaxseed egg substitute to make it vegan-friendly.

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