Craving a sweet start to your day? This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake is your answer! It combines the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls with the fluffy texture of classic French toast. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that impresses anyone at your table. Let's dive in and discover how to make this easy and tasty breakfast treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches.
- Deliciously Indulgent: The combination of cinnamon rolls and a creamy custard creates a rich, satisfying breakfast that everyone will love.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like nuts or fresh fruits to personalize each serving and suit your taste.
- Perfect for Sharing: This bake serves multiple people, making it an ideal dish for gatherings or family breakfasts.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (including icing packet)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
- Butter for greasing the baking dish
To make this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake, you need simple ingredients. First, grab two cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. They are the star of this dish. Don't forget the icing packet that comes with them.
Next, you will need six large eggs. These will create a rich custard. One cup of whole milk adds creaminess to the mix. For flavor, use one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract.
Ground spices are key here. Add one teaspoon of ground cinnamon for warmth. A half teaspoon of ground nutmeg gives a nice touch. Then, mix in a quarter cup of pure maple syrup for sweetness.
For some crunch, you can include a half cup of chopped pecans. They are optional but tasty! Lastly, use butter to grease your baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
These ingredients come together to create a warm and comforting dish. Enjoy gathering them, as they will make your kitchen smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This makes sure your bake cooks evenly.
2. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter. This keeps your dish from sticking.
3. Open the cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. Cut each roll into quarters. Spread the pieces evenly in the dish.
Egg Mixture Preparation
1. In a medium bowl, crack 6 large eggs. Whisk them well until blended.
2. Add 1 cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ cup of pure maple syrup. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour this egg mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the dish. Use a spatula to gently press down on the rolls. Make sure they are well-coated.
Baking Process
1. If you want, sprinkle ½ cup of chopped pecans over the top. This adds a nice crunch.
2. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
Greasing your baking dish is key. This step helps the rolls not stick. Use butter to coat the dish well. You want to ensure easy serving later.
Spread the quartered cinnamon rolls evenly in the dish. This helps them bake uniformly. If they are too crowded, some may not cook right. An even layer gives the best results.
Perfecting the Recipe
You can adjust the sweetness to your taste. If you like it less sweet, cut back on the maple syrup. For a bolder flavor, add more ground cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices bring warmth and depth.
Add the icing right after baking. This keeps it soft and gooey. Drizzle it while the bake is still warm. It will melt into the rolls, making each bite delightful.
Pro Tips
- Use Day-Old Cinnamon Rolls: If you have leftover cinnamon rolls, using them in this bake will add even more flavor and texture to the dish.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, or different nuts to customize your French toast bake.
- Serve with Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries, banana slices, or even a fruit compote can complement the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls beautifully.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can switch things up with your cinnamon roll French toast bake. One fun idea is to make a chocolate chip version. Just add some mini chocolate chips to the cinnamon roll pieces before you pour the egg mixture over them. The chocolate melts and creates a gooey treat.
Another option is to add fruit. You can use apples or blueberries. For apples, chop them up and mix them with the cinnamon rolls. For blueberries, sprinkle them on top before pouring the egg mix. Both options add a fresh twist to this tasty dish.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free cinnamon rolls at your store. They work just as well in this recipe. Just check the labels to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
For those who want a dairy-free option, substitute the whole milk with almond milk or oat milk. You can also replace the eggs with a mix of flaxseed and water. This way, you can still enjoy this dish without the dairy.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers, let the bake cool completely. Then, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. The Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake stays good in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, use the oven for the best texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bake in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm. For quick reheating, you can use the microwave. Use a microwave-safe plate and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds.
If you want to freeze it, cut it into portions first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To thaw, move the portions to the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above for the best results.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap. In the morning, simply remove the wrap and bake. This keeps it fresh and saves time.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The bake is done when it is puffed and golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If it comes out with wet batter, it needs more time. Bake for 25-30 minutes, but check it early if your oven runs hot.
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work great. Just make sure they are not too soft. Cut them into quarters and follow the same steps. You will get a fresher taste and a unique texture.
This recipe for baked cinnamon rolls is simple and fun. We covered all the steps from ingredients to baking. Remember to grease the dish well for best results. You can adjust flavors and even think about different diets. After baking, you can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them too. Enjoy creating your masterpiece and sharing it with others. The joy of a warm cinnamon roll dish is hard to beat. Happy baking!
