A finished plate of cinnamon roll french toast bake ready to serve

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake

Quick Answer

To make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake, soak rich bread in a sweet custard, bake it until the center sets, and serve it while the top still has some color and lift. It works because the custard actually reaches the bread instead of sitting around it like paperwork.

Jump to Recipe

This cinnamon roll French toast bake soaks rich, gooey cinnamon rolls in a sweet custard overnight, so all you do in the morning is bake it. It's dessert and breakfast having a very good argument, and breakfast wins.

It's a great make-ahead breakfast for a holiday morning or houseful of guests. Let it soak overnight for the best texture, and the oven does the rest in the morning.

Prep15 minutes
Cook40 minutes
Total55 minutes
Serves8 servings
DifficultyEasy

Ingredients

  • 1 pound cinnamon rolls
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups milk
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. 1Heat the oven to 350°F and butter a baking dish.
  2. 2Tear or cut the cinnamon rolls into pieces and spread them in the dish.
  3. 3Whisk the eggs, milk, cream cheese, vanilla, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
  4. 4Pour the custard over the bread and press lightly so the top pieces get acquainted with the liquid.
  5. 5Bake until the center is set and the top has browned edges and soft ridges.

Pro Tips

  • Let the bread soak for a few minutes before baking if it looks dry on top.
  • A richer bread gives you a better bake than sandwich bread here.
  • Do not pull it too early or the middle stays loose.

Substitutions

Brioche, challah, croissants, or cinnamon rolls all work.
Maple syrup can replace some of the brown sugar.
Berries or pecans can go on top if the bake wants more texture.

Storage Instructions

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Make Ahead

Assemble the night before and bake in the morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the night before and bake in the morning.

How do I store leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake?

Usually yes. Cool it completely, pack it well, and freeze for up to 2 months if the texture of the dish supports it.

What should I serve with Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake?

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake works best with simple sides or toppings that support the main texture instead of competing with it.