Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake is a perfect breakfast treat that combines the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the soft, custardy goodness of French toast. Imagine layers of fluffy bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture, all topped with a cinnamon-sugar swirl and drizzled with icing. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with the smell of warm cinnamon and makes mornings feel extra special.
I love making this bake when I have a little extra time in the morning because it’s so easy to prepare the night before. Just pop it in the oven the next day, and you have a warm, comforting breakfast waiting for you. It’s always a hit with family and friends, and I find that the sweet cinnamon flavors never get old. Plus, I usually add a handful of chopped nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a little extra crunch and sweetness.
Serving this cinnamon roll French toast bake with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup makes it feel like a special weekend treat. I often find myself sneaking in a second helping because it’s simply hard to resist. Whether it’s for a cozy brunch or a holiday morning, this dish brings a happy, cozy vibe to the table every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cinnamon rolls: These are the star ingredient. Store-bought ones work great for convenience. If you want to make it healthier, try whole wheat cinnamon rolls or use a low-sugar version.
Eggs and dairy: Eggs help bind and create the custard texture. I prefer whole milk and heavy cream for richness, but you can swap with almond or oat milk and use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Spices: Cinnamon is essential for that warm flavor. Nutmeg is optional but adds a nice touch. If you’re out of nutmeg, a pinch of allspice or cloves works well.
Sugar and glaze: Granulated sugar sweetens the custard, while the icing glaze adds the classic cinnamon roll finish. For less sugar, reduce the granulated sugar in the custard and use a sugar-free glaze or a drizzle of honey.
How Can I Make Sure the Cinnamon Rolls Soak Up the Custard Well?
Soaking the cinnamon rolls in the custard mixture is key for a soft, tender bake. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut the rolls into pieces, then pour the custard evenly over them, pressing gently to get all pieces soaked.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight—I usually leave mine overnight for maximum soaking.
- Before baking, let the dish sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to help it bake evenly.
This soak-time lets the custard fully penetrate every bite, giving that perfect custardy texture without drying out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×9 inch baking dish – I like this size because it’s perfect for fixing a cozy, serving-sized portion.
- Mixing bowls – for whisking the custard ingredients easily and getting everything smooth.
- Whisk – makes blending the eggs, milk, and spices simple and quick.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your ingredients.
- Plastic wrap or aluminum foil – great for covering and refrigerating the dish.
- Oven – to bake your cinnamon roll French toast to golden perfection.
- Serving spoon or spatula – for bringing out nicely sliced portions and drizzling glaze.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Fruit add-ins: Toss in chopped apples, berries, or sliced bananas before baking for extra sweetness and texture.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for crunch and richness.
- Different spices: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to spice things up.
- Cheese: Mix cream cheese into your glaze or swirl a bit into the custard for a creamy twist.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Icing/glaze from cinnamon rolls or:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour for soaking the cinnamon rolls in custard (you can also soak overnight for best results). Baking takes about 35-45 minutes. Plan for about 2 hours total from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Pan and Cinnamon Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Cut your cinnamon rolls into roughly 1-inch pieces and spread them evenly in the dish.
2. Mix the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until smooth and combined.
3. Soak the Cinnamon Rolls:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Press down gently to make sure the rolls soak up the custard. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to allow the cinnamon rolls to absorb the custard well.
4. Bake the Dish:
Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Then bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
5. Make and Drizzle the Glaze:
While the bake cools slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth (if you don’t have ready-made cinnamon roll icing). Drizzle the glaze generously over the warm French toast bake.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve warm with optional fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup. This dish is deliciously gooey, cinnamon-swirled, and topped with sweet icing — perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch!
Can I Use Frozen Cinnamon Rolls for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw frozen cinnamon rolls before cutting and soaking them to ensure even cooking and the best texture.
Can I Prepare the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake the night before and refrigerate it covered. This allows the cinnamon rolls to soak up the custard for a richer flavor, and you’ll have an easy bake-and-serve breakfast.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Definitely! Swap whole milk and heavy cream for your favorite plant-based milk and cream alternatives, like almond milk and coconut cream, and use a dairy-free icing or glaze.