Irresistible Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe for Thanksgiving Morning

The smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls wafting through the kitchen on Thanksgiving morning is one of life’s simple pleasures. This cinnamon roll casserole takes everything you love about those gooey, sweet rolls and turns it into a dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s the ultimate comfort food to kick off your holiday festivities, and trust me, it’s so good, you’ll be tempted to make it all year round.

I first made this recipe during a hectic Thanksgiving when I wanted something fun and indulgent for breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen. Enter: the cinnamon roll casserole. It’s quick, easy, and delivers all the cozy flavors you expect from a traditional cinnamon roll, but with way less effort. Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with a hot cup of coffee or a festive glass of apple cider.

Whether you’re hosting a full house or just want to treat your family to a special breakfast, this cinnamon roll casserole is a game-changer. It’s got the soft, pillowy texture of cinnamon rolls, a rich and creamy custard baked in, and a drizzle of icing that makes it simply irresistible. Let’s dive into the details of making this perfect Thanksgiving morning dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cinnamon roll casserole isn’t just another breakfast dish—it’s a celebration on a plate. Here’s why you’re going to fall in love with it:

• Quick & Easy: You can whip it up in under 15 minutes and let the oven do the rest! Perfect for a busy Thanksgiving morning.
• Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of grocery staples, and you might already have most of them in your kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this sweet treat—it’s always the first dish to disappear.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep it the night before, then pop it in the oven in the morning for a stress-free start to your holiday.
• Customizable: Add nuts, fruits, or even a drizzle of caramel to make it your own.
• Unbelievably Delicious: It’s soft, gooey, and bursting with cinnamon flavor—everything you love about cinnamon rolls in one easy dish.

What sets this recipe apart is the custard-like layer that forms around the cinnamon rolls as they bake. It keeps them tender and moist, while the icing adds that classic finishing touch. It’s not just a casserole—it’s an experience!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Canned Cinnamon Rolls: These are the heart of the recipe, and using pre-made rolls saves so much time. Look for your favorite brand.
• Eggs: Four large eggs to create a rich and creamy custard base.
• Milk: Whole milk is best for creaminess, but you can substitute almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
• Heavy Cream: Adds extra richness to the custard—don’t skip this!
• Vanilla Extract: Just a splash for a warm, sweet aroma.
• Ground Cinnamon: Because you can never have too much cinnamon flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a touch of caramel-like flavor.
• Icing: Use the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls or make your own with powdered sugar and milk.

Optional extras include chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or dried cranberries for a festive touch. You can even sprinkle on some powdered sugar for an extra pop of sweetness after baking!

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a ton of fancy equipment for this recipe, which is part of its charm. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch casserole dish works perfectly for this recipe.
• Mixing Bowls: One large bowl for preparing the custard mixture.
• Whisk: For blending the eggs, milk, and other ingredients smoothly.
• To cut the cinnamon rolls into smaller pieces.
• Spatula: To spread the icing evenly over the casserole.

If you don’t have a whisk, a fork works as a great alternative. And if your baking dish is smaller, you can split the mixture into two pans—it’ll bake just as well!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters. Spread the pieces evenly in the greased baking dish.
3. Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, ¾ cup (180 ml) of whole milk, ½ cup (120 ml) of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ cup (50 g) of brown sugar until smooth.
4. Pour Over the Rolls: Slowly pour the custard mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
5. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Check at the 30-minute mark and cover with foil if the top is browning too quickly.
6. Let It Cool: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. The custard will settle slightly as it cools.
7. Add the Icing: Warm the icing that came with your cinnamon rolls in the microwave for about 10 seconds, then drizzle it generously over the top of the casserole.
8. Serve: Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy warm with your favorite holiday beverage!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some pro tips to make sure your cinnamon roll casserole turns out perfect every time:

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. You want it to be golden and slightly puffed, not dry.
• Line Your Dish: If you’re worried about sticking, consider lining your baking dish with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Warm the Icing: Heating the icing before drizzling ensures it spreads evenly over the casserole.
• Make It Ahead: Prep everything the night before and refrigerate the casserole unbaked. In the morning, bake it directly from the fridge—just add 5 extra minutes to the baking time.
• Boost the Flavor: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mixture for a more complex spice profile.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls and ensure your other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Festive Additions: Add dried cranberries or raisins to the mix for a holiday-inspired twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the top before baking for extra texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap the milk and heavy cream for almond milk or coconut milk, and use dairy-free cinnamon rolls.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add mini chocolate chips to the casserole and drizzle with chocolate sauce instead of icing.

Personally, I love adding a handful of chopped pecans and a dash of nutmeg for a warm, nutty twist that feels extra festive.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This casserole is best served warm and fresh out of the oven, but it’s also fantastic reheated. Here’s how to serve and store it:

• Serving Suggestions: Pair it with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or apple cider for the ultimate Thanksgiving breakfast. Add a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair.
• Storage: Cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.

The flavors of the casserole deepen over time, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown for one serving of cinnamon roll casserole:

• Calories: Approx. 310
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Sugar: 22 g

The cinnamon in this recipe is not only delicious but also known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. If you opt for nuts or dried fruit, you’ll add vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats to the mix. Keep in mind that canned cinnamon rolls do contain gluten and dairy, so adapt the recipe as needed for dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dish that brings the warmth, sweetness, and joy of Thanksgiving morning to your table, this irresistible cinnamon roll casserole is the answer. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to be a hit with your family and guests. Plus, who doesn’t love waking up to the smell of cinnamon and sugar baking in the oven?

This recipe has become a cherished tradition in my home, and I hope it becomes one in yours too. Give it a try, and let me know how you made it your own! Leave a comment below—I’d love to hear your variations and any tips you have to share. Here’s to a cozy, delicious Thanksgiving morning filled with love, laughter, and cinnamon rolls!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge overnight. Bake it in the morning, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of canned?

Absolutely. If you have extra time, homemade cinnamon rolls will take this casserole to the next level. Just make sure they’re slightly underbaked so they don’t dry out.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to a month. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.

What can I use instead of brown sugar?

If you don’t have brown sugar, you can substitute it with white sugar or coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

You can try a flaxseed egg or a store-bought egg substitute. The texture might be slightly different, but it’ll still be delicious!

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