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
Scale
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.
