Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake Easy and Tasty Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in a breakfast treat that combines cinnamon rolls and French toast? This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake is easy to make and tastes divine! With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that’s perfect for brunch or a cozy morning at home. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will impress your family and make your mornings sweeter!

Ingredients

To make a delicious Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake, gather these simple ingredients:

– 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (12 rolls each)

– 6 large eggs

– 1 cup of milk (whole or almond milk)

– 1/2 cup heavy cream

– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

– 1/4 cup maple syrup

– Optional toppings: Whipped cream, fresh berries (such as strawberries or blueberries)

These ingredients mix together to create a tasty dish that is both sweet and comforting. The cinnamon rolls serve as a perfect base. Eggs and cream make a rich custard. The vanilla and cinnamon add warmth and flavor. Brown sugar and maple syrup enhance the sweetness. Feel free to add berries and whipped cream for a lovely finish. Each ingredient plays a role, making this bake a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key. A hot oven helps the bake rise and cook evenly. Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish. Generously grease it with non-stick spray or butter. This prevents sticking. You want every bite to come out clean.

Assemble the Cinnamon Roll Base

Now, open the cans of cinnamon rolls. Be careful! The rolls can pop out. Use kitchen scissors or a sharp knife to cut each roll into quarters. This makes it easier to layer. Evenly distribute the cut pieces in the greased dish. Ensure you cover the bottom well. This forms a nice base for your bake.

Create the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Mix until it is well combined and frothy. This custard mixture will soak into the cinnamon rolls, making them rich and tasty.

Bake the Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Pour the custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces. Use a spatula or your hands to press down on the rolls. This helps them soak up the custard. Next, drizzle 1/4 cup of maple syrup over the top. It adds sweetness and flavor. Now, place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes. The top should turn golden brown, and the center should set. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Even Baking

To bake your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake evenly, spread the custard mixture well. Make sure every piece of cinnamon roll gets soaked. If not, some parts may dry out while others stay soggy. Use a spatula to press the rolls gently down into the custard. This helps them soak up all the tasty goodness.

Check for doneness with a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the bake. If it comes out clean, your dish is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes. The top should look golden and slightly puffed.

Preparing the Icing

To make icing easy to drizzle, microwave the icing that comes with the rolls. Heat it for 10 to 15 seconds. This softens it, making it flow better. You can also add a few drops of milk for a thinner icing.

For icing variations, try adding vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon. This gives the icing a fun twist. You can even mix in some cocoa powder for a chocolate flavor.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

For a beautiful plate, serve the bake warm on individual plates. Cut the bake into squares for easy serving. Top each square with a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries add color and flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives a nice finish. This creates an inviting and gourmet look for your family or guests.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can easily change the taste of your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake. Here are some fun ideas:

– Nuts or chocolate chips: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the mix. Chocolate chips also make a great addition. They melt and create a rich, sweet bite.

– Fruit: You can mix in sliced apples or bananas. They add natural sweetness and freshness to the dish. Just chop them into small pieces and scatter them among the cinnamon roll pieces.

Alternative Ingredient Options

If you have dietary needs, there are options for you:

– Dairy-free or vegan: Use almond milk instead of regular milk. Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream. You can replace eggs with a mixture of ground flaxseed and water.

– Gluten-free: Look for gluten-free cinnamon rolls. Many brands offer tasty options that work well in this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this bake with some tasty sides and drinks:

– Breakfast sides: Serve with crispy bacon or sausage. Fresh fruit salad is also a great choice. It adds color and flavor.

– Drinks: Enjoy with coffee, tea, or fresh juice. A sweet orange juice or a smooth latte perfectly complements the cinnamon flavors.

Storage Info

Short-term Storage

To keep your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake fresh, store leftovers in the fridge. Place the bake in an airtight container. If you do not have one, use plastic wrap to cover the dish tightly. This keeps moisture in and prevents the bake from drying out. It will stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. When ready to eat, just reheat a portion in the microwave.

Long-term Storage

For longer storage, you can freeze the bake. First, let it cool completely. Then, cut it into squares and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag or container. This way, you can enjoy it later. It will stay good for up to three months in the freezer.

To reheat, take a piece out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, heat it in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until warm. If you prefer, you can also bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help it regain its fresh taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can use frozen cinnamon rolls. Here are some pros and cons:

– Pros:

– They are easy to store and last longer.

– You can bake them fresh whenever you want.

– Cons:

– They need extra time to thaw and rise before use.

– The texture may differ slightly from fresh rolls.

If you choose frozen, let them sit at room temp for about 30 minutes. Then, cut and use as you would with refrigerated rolls.

How can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare this dish ahead of time for a quick bake later. Here’s how:

– Night Before:

1. Prepare the cinnamon rolls and custard mixture.

2. Assemble everything in the greased dish.

3. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge.

– Baking Day:

– Remove the dish from the fridge 20 minutes before baking to bring it to room temp.

– Bake as instructed for about 30-35 minutes.

This way, you enjoy a hot breakfast with minimal morning fuss!

What are some common mistakes to avoid?

Here are some common problems and tips to avoid them:

– Baking Time Issues:

– Check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out wet, bake a bit longer.

– Custard Soaking Problems:

– Make sure every roll piece is well coated. Press them down gently to soak the custard.

– Avoiding Sogginess:

– Don’t skip the drizzling of maple syrup. It adds flavor and helps with texture.

– Let the bake cool for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps firm it up.

By following these tips, you’ll achieve a perfect bake every time!

This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a tasty cinnamon roll French toast. You learned how to prepare, bake, and serve this dish, including tips for perfecting it. Consider adding nuts or fruit for unique flavors. Store your leftovers wisely to enjoy later. With just a few steps, you can impress at breakfast or brunch. Try it out and make it your own! Happy cookin