If you’re searching for a delightfully cozy breakfast to wow your family or friends, look no further than this Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup and Pecans Recipe. It’s a scrumptious combination of fluffy cinnamon rolls baked with a rich egg custard, topped with crunchy pecans and luscious maple syrup that elevates every bite. This dish transforms a simple cinnamon roll into a warm, crowd-pleasing centerpiece that’s bursting with sweet, spiced, and nutty flavors you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup and Pecans Recipe are straightforward yet essential, each playing a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and perfect color. From buttery goodness to warming cinnamon and creamy custard, these components come together effortlessly to create a magical breakfast treat.
- Unsalted butter (¼ cup, melted): Adds richness and ensures the casserole doesn’t stick while giving a golden crust.
- Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls (2 tubes, 35 ounces): The star base of this dish, providing fluffy cinnamon swirls and sweetness.
- Large eggs (6): Create the custard that soaks into the cinnamon rolls, making them tender and custardy inside.
- Heavy cream (½ cup): Gives the custard a creamy texture and helps balance out the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Enhances the cinnamon flavor bringing warm spice to every bite.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds a sweet aromatic depth that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- Pure maple syrup (1 cup, divided): Infuses the casserole with natural sweetness and finishes the dish with that classic maple drizzle.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Introduce a wonderful crunch and nutty contrast that elevates this breakfast casserole.
- Frosting from the cinnamon rolls (warmed): The final luscious touch that turns this dish into a morning indulgence.
How to Make Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup and Pecans Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F. This temperature is just right to bake the casserole so it turns perfectly golden on top without drying out inside.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Pour the melted unsalted butter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and spread it evenly across the bottom. This butter layer not only prevents sticking but also creates a slightly crisp, buttery crust that’s incredibly satisfying.
Step 3: Arrange the Cinnamon Rolls
Take your Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls and cut them into 8 rounds if they aren’t pre-segmented. Place these rounds snugly on the bottom of the buttered baking dish. Don’t forget to set aside the accompanying frosting—it will shine later!
Step 4: Mix Your Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and combined. This custard blend is the secret to turning ordinary rolls into a dreamy French toast casserole.
Step 5: Pour the Custard Over Rolls
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon rolls in the baking pan. It’s okay if the custard fully covers the rolls—this soaking step is crucial to infuse every bite with custardy softness and spice.
Step 6: Add Maple Syrup and Pecans
Drizzle half a cup of pure maple syrup evenly over the custard-soaked rolls, then sprinkle the chopped pecans on top. The syrup adds sweet depth, while the pecans give a beautifully crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft rolls.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the casserole turns a gorgeous golden brown on top, and the custard looks set. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing about halfway through baking—just wait!
Step 8: Finish With Maple Syrup and Frosting
Once out of the oven, immediately pour the remaining half cup of maple syrup over the warm casserole. Then, drizzle the warmed cinnamon roll frosting on top. This final step adds a glossy, sweet finish that makes this casserole irresistible.
How to Serve Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup and Pecans Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this casserole with a few extra toasted pecans on top and a sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch of finesse. For an extra fresh note, a handful of sliced strawberries or a dollop of whipped cream can complement the cozy cinnamon flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pairing this Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup and Pecans Recipe alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage creates a perfect balance between sweet and savory. Fresh fruit or a simple green salad can lighten things up and make your brunch feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, serve the casserole directly in the baking dish with small plates so everyone can dig in family-style. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a drizzle of extra maple syrup and a sprinkle of pecans for a pretty presentation. Adding a dusting of cinnamon or a sprig of fresh mint can elevate the visual appeal, too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy a delicious breakfast later in the week without starting from scratch.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully! Wrap the cooled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and the edges are slightly crisp again. You can also microwave shorter if in a hurry, but the oven maintains the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use another type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are lovely alternatives that add crunch and nutty flavor. Just be sure to chop them roughly to match the texture of pecans for the best experience.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative, using a dairy-free cream or coconut milk, and ensuring the cinnamon rolls are dairy-free, you can make a delicious dairy-free version of this casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Definitely! Assemble everything up to the baking step and cover the dish tightly. Refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh the next morning. This saves time and lets the flavors meld perfectly.
What if I don’t have Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls? Can I make cinnamon rolls from scratch?
You can, but keep in mind homemade cinnamon rolls take longer to prepare. If you want to try a scratch version, just be prepared for additional time to rise and bake, though the results are incredibly rewarding.
How sweet is this dish? Can I reduce sugar?
This casserole is pleasantly sweet thanks to the cinnamon rolls and maple syrup, but if you prefer less sweetness, try using less syrup on top or a roll variety with a lighter icing. The flavors will still shine through beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like waking up to a warm, fragrant pan of Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup and Pecans Recipe. It’s a simple yet indulgent breakfast that feels special any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish brings comfort and joy with every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how this cozy casserole will become a beloved favorite in your kitchen!
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Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup and Pecans Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon French Toast Casserole combines the indulgent flavors of soft, gooey cinnamon rolls with a rich custard and a crunchy pecan topping, all baked to golden perfection. Topped with warm icing and pure maple syrup, this easy-to-make breakfast casserole is perfect for family gatherings or a special weekend treat.
Ingredients
Base
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (57 grams, melted, ½ stick)
- 35 ounces Pillsbury Grands! Cinnamon Rolls (992 grams, 2 (17.5-ounce) tubes)
Custard
- 6 large eggs (300 grams)
- ½ cup heavy cream (114 grams)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (6 grams)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (8 grams)
Toppings
- 1 cup pure maple syrup (312 grams, divided)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (114 grams)
- Frosting from the cinnamon rolls (warmed)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole evenly.
- Butter the Baking Dish: Pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch (3-quart) baking pan and spread it around to coat the bottom and sides, preventing sticking and adding flavor.
- Arrange Cinnamon Rolls: Cut the cinnamon roll dough into 8 rounds if not pre-segmented, then place all the rolls snugly into the baking dish. Set the provided icing aside for later.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, beat the six large eggs until smooth. Add the heavy cream, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract, then mix thoroughly to combine into a custard.
- Pour Custard Over Rolls: Slowly pour the custard mixture over the cinnamon rolls in the dish, making sure to cover them completely so they soak up the liquid and become tender.
- Add Maple Syrup and Pecans: Drizzle half a cup of pure maple syrup evenly over the custard-soaked rolls, then sprinkle one cup of chopped pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Finish with Syrup and Icing: After baking, remove the casserole from the oven, pour the remaining half cup of maple syrup evenly over the rolls, and drizzle with the warmed frosting for a sweet, glossy finish.
Notes
- For best results, use slightly chilled cinnamon rolls to maintain shape during baking.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
- Allow the casserole to rest 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly and enhance flavor melding.
- Use real pure maple syrup for authentic sweetness and richness.
- Warm the frosting gently to make it easier to drizzle but avoid overheating, which can alter texture.
