If you are searching for a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a cozy hug in every bite, the Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This dish takes the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls and elevates them into an effortless, crowd-pleasing casserole that cooks gently all morning, filling your home with the most irresistible aroma. It’s perfect for family breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or any time you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple yet indispensable, coming together to create a symphony of flavors and textures—from the soft, sweet cinnamon rolls to the creamy, spiced custard, and the crunchy pecans that add a delightful contrast.
- 2 (12-ounce) tubes cinnamon roll dough, cut in quarters: The star of the casserole, providing that classic fluffy cinnamon swirl.
- 3 eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and create the rich custard base.
- 1/2 cup half-and-half or whipping cream: Adds creaminess and depth to the custard mixture.
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup: Brings a natural sweetness with a hint of warmth.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with sweet floral notes.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Enhances the cinnamon rolls’ spice for that classic comforting taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans: Provides a satisfying nutty crunch that balances the soft casserole.
How to Make Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Crock Pot
Start by generously greasing a 6-quart crock pot with cooking spray to make sure your casserole doesn’t stick and can be served easily. This little prep step makes cleanup just as easy as the recipe itself.
Step 2: Layer the Cinnamon Rolls
Place your cinnamon roll quarters evenly across the bottom of the crock pot. This forms the base layer and ensures that each bite is loaded with that fluffy, cinnamon-sweet goodness.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, half-and-half, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk everything together until well blended. This spiced custard is what transforms the cinnamon rolls into a luscious, pudding-like casserole texture.
Step 4: Pour the Custard Over Rolls
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the cinnamon rolls, making sure to cover them evenly so they soak up all those rich, flavorful hints, turning every bite perfectly moist and fragrant.
Step 5: Sprinkle with Pecans
Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans on top. These nuts add crunch and a toasty note that perfectly contrasts with the soft dough and silky custard.
Step 6: Add the First Layer of Icing
Spoon one container of the cinnamon rolls’ included icing over the top. As it slowly melts during cooking, it infuses the casserole with its signature creamy sweetness.
Step 7: Cook on Low
Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on LOW for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Cooking slowly allows the casserole to set beautifully and turn golden brown, giving you that irresistible texture and flavor.
Step 8: Finish with More Icing
When the casserole is cooked and golden, turn off the crock pot and spoon the second container of icing over the top. Serve it warm for the ultimate indulgence.
How to Serve Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning presentation, try garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a few extra chopped pecans, or a drizzle of warm maple syrup. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also add a beautiful pop of color and fresh flavor.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a luscious star on its own, but it pairs delightfully with fresh fruit salad, crisp bacon, or a simple green salad to balance the sweetness and keep the meal well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming touch at brunch parties, or layer it with fresh fruit and yogurt in parfait glasses for a delightful twist on presentation. This recipe also shines styled on a rustic wooden board surrounded by breakfast staples.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it just as good, if not better, the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze leftovers in a tightly sealed container for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain texture and flavor before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through. For a crispier top, you can also reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade dough can add a personal touch and fresh flavor, just be sure to cut it into similar quarters for even cooking.
What size crock pot is best for this casserole?
A 6-quart crock pot is ideal as it provides enough space for the layers to cook evenly without overfilling.
Can I prepare the casserole the night before?
Yes! Assemble the casserole in the crock pot insert, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, just cook it on LOW for the stated time.
Is it possible to make this dairy-free or vegan?
For dairy-free, substitute half-and-half with coconut cream and use vegan cinnamon roll dough if available. For eggs, try a flax egg replacement, but the texture might vary slightly.
How can I tell when the casserole is done?
It should be golden brown on top and set in the center, similar to a baked custard. A slight jiggle is okay, but it shouldn’t be liquidy.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is such a warm and inviting breakfast that brings people together effortlessly. It’s sweet, cozy, and incredibly easy to make, which means you can enjoy a gourmet-style brunch without any stress. Give this a try soon—you might just find it becoming your new favorite way to start the day with comfort and joy.
Print
Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a deliciously easy breakfast dish combining soft cinnamon rolls with a creamy spiced egg mixture, topped with crunchy pecans and sweet icing. Perfect for a hassle-free morning treat, it’s slow-cooked in a Crock Pot, resulting in a golden, custardy casserole that’s warm, comforting, and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Casserole
- 2 (12-ounce) tubes cinnamon roll dough, each cut into quarters
- 3 eggs
- 1/2 cup half-and-half or whipping cream
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
Icing
- 2 containers of icing that come with the cinnamon rolls
Instructions
- Spray the Crock Pot: Grease a 6-quart Crock Pot thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Layer Cinnamon Rolls: Arrange the cinnamon roll quarters evenly at the bottom of the greased Crock Pot to form the base layer.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined to create a flavorful custard.
- Pour Mixture: Slowly pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls in the Crock Pot, allowing it to soak into the rolls.
- Add Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Add Icing: Spoon one container of the cinnamon roll icing evenly over the mixture to add sweetness and moisture.
- Cook: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on LOW heat for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the casserole is set, golden brown, and cooked through.
- Finish: Once cooked, turn off the Crock Pot and spoon the second container of icing on top of the casserole for a rich finishing touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your Crock Pot model; start checking around 2 1/2 hours.
- Use half-and-half for a creamier texture or substitute with whipping cream if preferred.
- You can replace pecans with walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
- Make sure to grease the Crock Pot well to make serving easier and prevent sticking.
- This recipe serves 8, perfect for larger family breakfasts or brunch gatherings.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the microwave.
