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Irresistible Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake

cinnamon roll french toast bake - featured image

A cozy and indulgent breakfast casserole combining gooey cinnamon rolls with custardy French toast, perfect for special occasions or lazy mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 frozen cinnamon rolls with icing included, thawed slightly and cut into 1 to 1.5 inch pieces
  • 68 slices thick brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 g)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) melted butter, for dotting on top
  • Optional: powdered sugar glaze (icing packet from cinnamon rolls or 1 cup powdered sugar whisked with 2 tablespoons milk and a splash of vanilla)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Slice the thawed cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces about 1 to 1.5 inches each.
  3. Cut brioche or challah slices into cubes roughly the same size as the cinnamon roll pieces. Place bread and cinnamon roll chunks evenly in the baking dish.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs until fully combined. Add 2 cups whole milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
  5. Pour the custard evenly over the bread and cinnamon rolls. Gently press down to help custard soak into every piece. Let sit for about 10 minutes to absorb. For make-ahead, cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
  6. Dot the top with 2 tablespoons melted butter.
  7. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until puffed and golden brown. Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes to firm up the custard.
  9. Drizzle with cinnamon roll icing or homemade glaze.
  10. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Let the custard soak into the bread and cinnamon rolls for at least 10 minutes or overnight for best texture and flavor. Use day-old brioche or challah for better soaking. Dotting melted butter on top before baking helps achieve a golden, crispy crust. Tent with foil if top browns too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon roll, French toast bake, breakfast casserole, easy breakfast, brunch, cinnamon, custard, holiday breakfast