Imagine waking up to a warm, sweet, and comforting breakfast that takes less than an hour to make. Our Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake transforms classic cinnamon rolls into a delightful dish full of rich, spiced flavors. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into this fast and flavorful recipe that will brighten your morning!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe simplifies the classic cinnamon roll experience by combining the flavors in a convenient bake, making it perfect for busy mornings.
- Deliciously Indulgent: With a rich custard base and warm cinnamon rolls, this dish is a delightful treat that feels like a dessert for breakfast.
- Perfect for Sharing: Designed to serve multiple people, it's an ideal choice for brunch gatherings or family breakfasts, ensuring everyone gets a taste.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite ingredients like fruits or nuts, making it versatile to suit different tastes and preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cans refrigerated cinnamon roll dough
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Flavor Additions
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Icing from the cinnamon roll cans
This dish starts with cinnamon roll dough. I use two cans, each with 12 rolls. The rolls bring a sweet and fluffy base to the bake. I add six large eggs for richness and protein. The milk and heavy cream make it creamy and smooth.
To boost flavor, I mix in vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. These spices add warmth and depth. Maple syrup sweetens the mix, making every bite delightful.
If you want extra crunch, chopped pecans are a great choice. They add texture and nutty flavor. Finally, don’t forget the icing! It comes from the cinnamon roll cans and brings a sweet finish.
Using these ingredients, you create a dish that is both fun and easy to make.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the bake evenly.
2. Next, grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. This keeps the bake from sticking.
3. Open the two cans of refrigerated cinnamon roll dough. Cut each roll into quarters.
4. Place the quartered cinnamon rolls in the greased dish. If you want, sprinkle chopped pecans over the rolls.
Mixing the Egg Mixture
1. In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg.
3. Pour in 1/4 cup of maple syrup for sweetness. Whisk until everything blends well.
4. Pour this egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls. Make sure every piece gets soaked.
5. Gently press down with a spatula. This helps the cinnamon rolls absorb the mixture better.
Baking Instructions
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You want the top to turn golden brown.
2. Check that the center is set. It should not jiggle when you shake the dish.
3. While the bake cooks, prepare the icing. Place the icing packets from the cinnamon roll cans in warm water. This softens the icing.
4. Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
5. Drizzle the warmed icing over the top. This adds a sweet touch and makes it look great.
Tips & Tricks
Presentation Tips
Serve this dish warm in square portions. I like to garnish it with a dusting of powdered sugar. A few chopped pecans on top add a nice crunch. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence. This makes every bite feel special.
Baking Tips
To ensure even soaking of the cinnamon rolls, make sure to press down gently after pouring the egg mixture. This helps all pieces absorb the tasty liquid. If your oven runs hot or cold, check the bake at 25 minutes. You may need to adjust the time so it turns golden brown and sets in the center.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding vanilla or almond extract can boost the flavors nicely. You can also mix in fresh berries, like blueberries or raspberries, for a fruity twist. These small changes can make your dish even more delicious and fun!
Pro Tips
- Use Day-Old Bread: For an even better texture, use slightly stale cinnamon rolls. This helps them absorb the egg mixture more effectively without becoming too soggy.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger can elevate the flavor profile of your French toast bake.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dish the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Perfectly Drizzled Icing: Heat the icing packets in warm water for a few minutes before drizzling. This makes it easier to pour and creates a beautiful finish.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can switch to whole eggs or use egg whites. Egg whites cut fat and calories. This keeps the dish lighter. You can use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk. These choices add a nutty flavor. They also make the dish dairy-free for some.
Flavor Variations
You can create a chocolate chip cinnamon roll French toast bake. Just mix in chocolate chips with the cinnamon rolls. For a seasonal twist, try apple or pumpkin flavors. You can layer in cooked apples or pumpkin puree. This adds a sweet touch and makes it festive.
Serving Variations
You can serve this dish as a breakfast or dessert. For breakfast, drizzle with maple syrup. For dessert, top with whipped cream or ice cream. You can also mix in different syrups or toppings. Try caramel sauce or fresh fruit for more fun flavors.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftovers of your cinnamon roll French toast bake, let it cool first. Place the cooled bake in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, try to cover it well to keep it moist.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating this dish is easy. You can use an oven or microwave. If using the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bake in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15 minutes or until warm. If you use a microwave, heat a single portion for about 30 seconds. Check to see if it's warm. If not, heat in 10-second bursts.
To keep the texture nice, avoid reheating too long. This will help the bake stay soft and fluffy.
Freezing Suggestions
You can freeze both uncooked and cooked versions. For uncooked bake, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover it well with plastic wrap and foil. It can freeze for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed.
If you freeze cooked portions, let them cool first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. To thaw, put them in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven or microwave as mentioned above. Enjoy your delicious cinnamon roll French toast bake anytime!
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish the night before. Here are some tips:
- Cut the cinnamon rolls and place them in the baking dish.
- Mix the egg mixture and pour it over the rolls.
- Cover the dish and store it in the fridge overnight.
- Bake it in the morning after letting it sit for a bit at room temp.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! You can try other types of bread. Here are some options:
- Brioche adds a rich flavor.
- Challah gives a nice texture.
- Croissants make it flaky and light.
- Whole grain bread adds more fiber.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
Look for these signs to check for doneness:
- The top should be golden brown.
- The center should be set and not jiggly.
- Use a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- If it’s browning too fast, cover it with foil.
You now have all the steps to create a delicious cinnamon roll French toast bake. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and enjoy the tasty results. Don't forget to add your favorite toppings to make it even better. This dish is perfect for breakfast or dessert. Try different variations to keep things fun. Store extras safely and reheat them easily. With these tips, you can make this treat any time. Happy baking!
