Cinnamon Roll Casserole: The Easiest, Most Delicious Breakfast Bake You’ll Ever Make

There are few scents in the culinary world as instantly comforting and universally loved as the sweet, spicy aroma of baking cinnamon rolls. But let’s be honest: kneading, rising, and rolling dough early on a Saturday morning is often more effort than we’re willing to commit. That’s where the magic of the Cinnamon Roll Casserole comes in. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a brilliant kitchen hack that transforms two cans of store-bought cinnamon rolls into a gooey, rich, bread-pudding-like masterpiece, perfect for brunch, holidays, or any day you deserve a little extra sweetness.

Forget the individual rolls this revolutionary method turns those swirls of buttery dough into irresistible bite-sized pieces, suspended in a lush, brown sugar-cinnamon custard. The result is a breakfast bake with crispy tops, tender, caramelized middles, and that classic, decadent icing drizzled over every inch. If you’re searching for a spectacular, low-effort centerpiece for your next family gathering, your quest ends here. The Cinnamon Roll Casserole delivers maximum flavor for minimal fuss, ensuring every single serving is pure heaven.

This recipe for Cinnamon Roll Casserole is designed for convenience without sacrificing that homemade quality everyone craves. It utilizes simple pantry staples to elevate the flavor profile of the canned dough, creating a depth of taste that mimics hours of hard work. Get ready to bake the most requested breakfast item in your home!

Why This Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole is Your New Weekend Obsession

The term “casserole” often conjures images of savory dinners, but when applied to cinnamon rolls, it describes a delightful amalgamation of textures and tastes that make traditional breakfast pastries jealous. The structural genius of the Cinnamon Roll Casserole lies in its ability to combine the best aspects of classic bread pudding, French toast, and, of course, a fresh-baked cinnamon roll, all in one dish. This blending of concepts creates a depth and complexity that individual rolls simply cannot match.

You’ll love this recipe because it solves the eternal cinnamon roll dilemma: how to get enough of that gooey center. By cutting the rolls into quarters and bathing them in a rich custard, every piece becomes infused with the sweet, milky mixture. As the dish bakes, the edges crisp up, offering a satisfying crunch, while the core remains incredibly soft, moist, and delightfully sticky a textural paradise that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. The brown sugar and butter mixture doesn’t just coat the rolls; it creates a caramelized base during baking, forming a sort of sticky-bun layer underneath the dough quarters.

The sheer effortlessness of this Cinnamon Roll Casserole is another massive selling point. Using refrigerated dough means zero proofing time and no complicated ingredient measurements. It’s truly a dump-and-bake recipe, making it perfect for busy parents, novice bakers, or anyone who wants a spectacular treat without the associated stress. Imagine waking up, spending ten minutes prepping, and having a jaw-dropping breakfast ready in half an hour. That’s the power of this recipe!

Furthermore, the Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a spectacular showstopper. Served warm, fresh from the oven, and generously drenched in that sweet, reserved icing, it presents beautifully. It’s naturally self-portioned (or easily shareable, depending on how you scoop it) and travels well, making it an ideal candidate for potlucks, brunches, or bringing cheer to a neighbor. Whether you serve it alongside a strong cup of coffee or as a decadent dessert after a light dinner, this casserole proves that sometimes, the simplest recipes yield the most spectacular results. For other indulgent breakfast ideas, why not check out my recipe for Churros con Chocolate? It’s another winner for those special mornings.

The Magic of the Baked Cinnamon Roll Casserole

One aspect often overlooked is how quickly this dish adapts to your schedule. Unlike traditional baking, where precision is everything, the forgiving nature of the refrigerated dough means you can prep this casserole the night before. Simply assemble the entire dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. In the morning, pop it straight into the preheated oven, adding just a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the chill. This “make-ahead” functionality is priceless when hosting holiday brunches or needing a quick grab-and-go option for guests.

When discussing baked goods, the ratio of spice to sweetness is crucial. This recipe elevates the included cinnamon rolls by adding an extra teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the butter and brown sugar mixture. This reinforcement ensures that the classic warm spice flavor permeates the entire dish, preventing the rich custard from overwhelming the iconic cinnamon swirl taste. This small addition is what transforms a simple baked dish into a truly memorable Cinnamon Roll Casserole.

Why You Should Try This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe Today

If you have been searching for a foolproof recipe that guarantees success every time, the Cinnamon Roll Casserole is your answer. It takes the stress out of baking while maximizing the flavor and visual appeal. This recipe is a confidence booster in the kitchen, requiring basic assembly skills and rewarding you with professional-level results.

The primary reason to try this Cinnamon Roll Casserole immediately is its versatility. While it excels as a weekend breakfast, its rich, dessert-like qualities make it suitable for almost any occasion. Planning a celebratory brunch? This casserole serves a large group easily and elegantly. Need a comforting dessert on a chilly evening? Serve a warm scoop topped with vanilla ice cream it transforms into a sticky-bun sundae experience. Its robustness also makes it a fantastic item to bake for gifting; wrap a portion beautifully, and you instantly have the perfect housewarming or thank-you present.

Beyond convenience, this recipe offers superior texture. When baked individually, canned cinnamon rolls often dry out slightly on the exposed edges. By submerging the cut pieces in a creamy custard, we ensure that every internal surface remains moist and tender. The custard acts as a protective blanket, preventing dryness while infusing the dough with richness from the eggs and dairy. This technique means no more chewy, dry roll centers; only soft, pillowy perfection.

Moreover, the ingredient list is incredibly accessible. You likely have the eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon already stocked. The only specialized items are the cans of rolls, which are available in virtually every grocery store. This accessibility minimizes last-minute grocery runs and allows for spontaneous baking sessions. The use of large “Grands” style rolls is deliberate, as these offer a thicker, more substantial dough that holds up beautifully under the weight of the custard, resulting in a heartier, more satisfying casserole slice.

This dish also allows for personal customization, which encourages culinary exploration. While the base recipe is perfect, the structure is robust enough to handle additions like toasted pecans, chopped apples, or even a dash of nutmeg in the custard for seasonal flair. This ability to easily adapt the recipe means your Cinnamon Roll Casserole can evolve with the seasons and your personal cravings. It’s a perfect partner for dessert, much like a stunning Basque Cheesecake, but designed for the breakfast table!

Unbeatable Flavor and Effortless Preparation

The secret weapon in this recipe is the simple addition of brown sugar and melted butter tossed directly with the cut dough pieces. This step, which takes less than a minute, dramatically enhances the overall flavor profile. Brown sugar, unlike granulated white sugar, contains molasses, which provides a deeper, almost malty sweetness and helps create that wonderfully sticky, caramelized crust on the bottom of the casserole. Coupled with the fresh cinnamon, this coating ensures that the classic flavor we associate with baked cinnamon goods is intense and satisfying.

Preparation is genuinely minimal, following a straightforward sequence: cut the rolls, coat them in flavor, add the custard, and bake. There are no complicated mixing techniques or precise timing requirements beyond the baking stage. This simplicity is what elevates the Cinnamon Roll Casserole from a recipe to a life hack, giving you glorious results without demanding much of your time or attention.

Gathering Your Ingredients for the Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Achieving a truly outstanding Cinnamon Roll Casserole starts with selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients. While the core component is store-bought dough, the homemade custard and spice blend are what give this dish its gourmet edge. Below is a detailed breakdown of the necessary items and why they are essential for recipe success.

Detailed Ingredients List

• 2 (12.4 ounce) cans refrigerated cinnamon rolls (such as Pillsbury Grands!, 8 rolls per can): We specifically recommend the larger “Grands” style rolls. The thicker dough prevents the pieces from dissolving into the custard entirely during the long bake, ensuring you have distinct, fluffy pieces of roll after baking. Crucially, save the icing containers!
• 4 large eggs: These form the base of the custard. Eggs are essential for binding the liquid components and setting the casserole, transforming the milky mixture into a lush, baked pudding that surrounds the dough.
• ½ cup whole milk or half-and-half: The choice of dairy affects richness. Whole milk is sufficient, but half-and-half is highly recommended. Half-and-half contains a higher fat content, resulting in a creamier, more decadent custard that prevents the final casserole from tasting watery or thin.
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar: This is a non-negotiable ingredient. Light brown sugar provides moisture and the necessary molasses content to create a deep, caramelized flavor coating the dough pieces. Ensure it is firmly packed when measuring for accuracy.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Butter acts as the carrier for the brown sugar and cinnamon, ensuring an even coating on the dough pieces before the custard is added. Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall salinity of the dish.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A crucial flavoring agent. Vanilla enhances the sweetness and adds aromatic depth to the egg custard, complementing the cinnamon beautifully. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor payoff.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: While the rolls already contain cinnamon, this extra teaspoon is mixed with the brown sugar and butter to intensify the spice level and ensure the whole dish tastes like an authentic, high-quality cinnamon dessert.
• Pinch of salt: Often overlooked in sweet recipes, a small pinch of salt (preferably fine sea salt) is vital. It balances the overwhelming sweetness of the sugar and icing and brings out the deeper, underlying flavors of the vanilla and cinnamon.
• The 2 containers of icing included with the cinnamon rolls: The ultimate finishing touch. Using the included icing saves time and perfectly matches the flavor profile of the dough. It melts slightly over the warm casserole, soaking into the top layer.

Achieving the perfect flavor balance is about appreciating the role of each component. For instance, increasing the quality of the dairy (opting for half-and-half or even heavy cream diluted slightly) significantly impacts the final texture of the custard. Similarly, ensuring the brown sugar is fully dissolved in the melted butter before tossing with the rolls guarantees maximum caramelization on the baking sheet. This attention to detail elevates this simple hack into a truly gourmet breakfast.

Essential Tools for Baking Success

While this Cinnamon Roll Casserole is delightfully straightforward, having the right tools makes assembly and cleanup even easier. Focusing on accurate measuring and proper mixing containers will streamline your preparation process.

Utensils Checklist:

• 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: This standard rectangular dish size is mandatory for this recipe. It provides the perfect surface area for the dough quarters to spread and ensures the correct depth for the custard to set without overflowing or resulting in an overly dense bake. Glass or ceramic dishes work best as they retain heat evenly.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for cleanly quartering the sticky cinnamon rolls. A non-serrated chef’s knife works perfectly.
• Very Large Mixing Bowl: You will need ample space to toss the dough pieces with the brown sugar mixture and, subsequently, the custard. Using a bowl that seems slightly too large prevents spills and ensures effective, gentle coating of the pieces.
• Small, Microwave-Safe Bowl: Used specifically for melting the butter quickly.
• Medium-Sized Bowl and Whisk: Necessary for preparing the egg and milk custard. Whisking ensures the eggs are fully incorporated and slightly frothy, which aids in creating a light, even custard texture.
• Rubber Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for gently folding the ingredients together. A rubber spatula is particularly useful for scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring all pieces are evenly coated without crushing the soft dough.
• Non-Stick Cooking Spray or Butter: For generously greasing the baking dish, preventing the caramelized sugar and sticky dough from adhering to the bottom.

Having these tools laid out before you begin ensures a smooth transition between preparation steps. Remember, the key to the success of the Cinnamon Roll Casserole is the proper coating, so don’t skimp on the size of your mixing bowl!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering the Cinnamon Roll Casserole

This recipe is incredibly straightforward, but precision in pre-baking preparation ensures the ultimate gooey texture and golden finish. Follow these detailed steps closely to create your perfect Cinnamon Roll Casserole.

1. Preparation and Preheating

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Proper oven temperature is vital for achieving the correct balance of set custard and fluffy dough. Next, generously grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Use softened butter and thoroughly coat the sides and bottom, or use a high-quality non-stick cooking spray. This step is critical to prevent the caramelized brown sugar from cementing the casserole to the dish.

2. Cutting the Cinnamon Rolls

   Open both cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. Immediately set the two small containers of icing aside do not discard them! Place the 16 rolls (8 from each can) onto a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut each cinnamon roll into four evenly sized pieces (quarters). Precision isn’t paramount, but aim for relatively uniform chunks to ensure even baking. Place all the cut pieces into your very large mixing bowl.

3. Preparing the Flavor Mixture

   In the small, microwave-safe bowl, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. This should take about 30 seconds to 1 minute, depending on your microwave. Once melted, stir in the ½ cup of light brown sugar (packed) and the 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until the mixture is uniform and the sugar is starting to dissolve into the butter. This creates our sticky-bun base flavor.

   Pour this rich brown sugar and butter mixture immediately over the cut cinnamon roll pieces in the large mixing bowl. Toss gently using a rubber spatula or large spoon until the roll pieces are evenly coated. Do not over-mix or aggressively stir, as you want the dough quarters to retain their shape. The pieces should look glossy and slightly sticky.

4. Creating the Custard

   In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs, ½ cup of whole milk or half-and-half, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously for about 30 to 60 seconds. You are looking for a mixture that is fully blended, homogenous, and slightly frothy on top. This aeration helps create a lighter final custard.

5. Assembling the Casserole

   Pour the prepared egg and milk custard mixture directly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the large mixing bowl. Fold the ingredients together gently once more. The goal here is simply to ensure all the roll pieces are submerged or coated in the liquid acting as the “glue” that holds the Cinnamon Roll Casserole together and keeps the rolls moist.

   Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the pieces out evenly so they form a mostly flat layer across the bottom of the dish. Some pieces will inevitably overlap, which is fine, as this encourages the development of those wonderfully gooey pockets.

6. Baking the Casserole

   Place the baking dish carefully into the preheated oven (375°F). Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Cooking time can vary depending on your oven and the material of your dish. Start checking for doneness around the 25-minute mark. The casserole is done when the edges are visibly golden brown and bubbling enthusiastically, and the custard is entirely set (gently press the center; there should be no visible liquid pooling).

   If the top begins to brown too quickly before the center is set, loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil for the last 5 to 10 minutes of baking.

7. Glazing and Serving

   Remove the Cinnamon Roll Casserole from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Let it cool for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period allows the steam to escape and slightly firms up the custard before the icing is applied.

   Open both containers of reserved icing. If the icing seems very thick and doesn’t drizzle easily, you can whisk in a tiny amount (about ½ teaspoon) of milk or warm water to loosen its consistency. Alternatively, if you like a super runny glaze, microwave the icing containers for 5-10 seconds.

   Drizzle the entire amount of icing evenly over the warm casserole. The residual heat will melt the glaze slightly, allowing it to seep into all the nooks and crannies. Serve the Cinnamon Roll Casserole immediately while warm, savoring the combination of sticky custard, tender dough, and sweet glaze.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Bake

• Temperature Control: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature if possible. This helps them mix more thoroughly and ensures the custard doesn’t shock the dough when they are combined.
• The Overnight Hack: For ultimate convenience, complete Steps 1 through 5 the night before. Cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. In the morning, remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats, and bake as directed (you may need an extra 5-10 minutes due to the cold temperature).
• Non-Stick is Non-Negotiable: Do not skip greasing the pan thoroughly. The brown sugar creates a delicious but stubborn caramel that will stick if the dish is not properly prepared.

Tips, Variations, and Making This Cinnamon Roll Casserole Your Own

The beauty of the basic Cinnamon Roll Casserole recipe is its adaptability. Once you master the primary technique, you can easily introduce new flavors and textures to customize the dish for different seasons or occasions. Here are some suggestions and tips to avoid common baking mistakes.

Delicious Ingredient Alternatives and Variations

If you want to move beyond the traditional recipe, here are several popular adaptations for your next Cinnamon Roll Casserole:

• Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped, toasted pecans or walnuts along with the cinnamon roll pieces before adding the custard. The nuts add a lovely counterpoint texture to the soft dough.
• Apple Pie Flavor: For a fall twist, toss the dough pieces with ¼ cup of finely diced, peeled apple (like Granny Smith) that has been mixed with a dash of extra cinnamon and nutmeg. This adds moisture and a pleasant tartness.
• Cream Cheese Kick: While the included icing is excellent, you can upgrade it. Beat softened cream cheese (4 oz), 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla until smooth. Use this richer frosting instead of the packaged glaze.
• Gluten-Free Version: Although refrigerated gluten-free cinnamon rolls are less common, they are available in some specialty stores. If using gluten-free dough, ensure the baking time is closely monitored, as gluten-free pastries can sometimes dry out faster.
• Vegan Option: This requires significant substitution. You would need vegan-friendly refrigerated rolls (Pillsbury is not usually vegan), plant-based milk (oat or almond milk), and an egg substitute (such as flax eggs or commercial egg replacer), and vegan butter.
• Coffee Boost: Stir 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules or finely ground espresso powder into the custard mixture for a deep, mocha flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.

If you’re looking for more creative ways to use simple ingredients in baking, Follow my boards on Pinterest for more easy breakfast ideas!

Avoiding Common Casserole Mistakes

While the Cinnamon Roll Casserole is foolproof, minor errors can affect texture. Keep these troubleshooting tips in mind:

• The Runny Middle: If the custard in the center hasn’t set, it means the casserole needs more time. The key indicator is that the center should be firm when gently pressed, and the internal temperature should reach 185°F (85°C). If the top is already dark, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking for 5-10 minute increments until set.
• Overly Sticky Bottom: This usually happens when the pan wasn’t adequately greased, or too much brown sugar mixture pooled in one spot. Ensure you grease the pan right up to the edges. If it sticks, let it cool for 15 minutes instead of 5; sometimes a slight cooling helps the caramel release.
• Dry Dough Pieces: This occurs from overbaking or using less rich dairy (like skim milk). Always use whole milk or half-and-half, and stick closely to the 25-30 minute baking window. Remember, the custard is what keeps the dough moist, so don’t let it bake until the custard is hard.
• Icing Disaster: Applying icing to a steaming hot casserole will cause it to melt instantly and disappear. Wait the mandated 5 minutes. The casserole should be warm, not scalding, for the perfect drizzle that melts slightly but holds its shape.

Mastering the timing and heat is essential for a perfect Cinnamon Roll Casserole. By implementing these tips and using the recommended ingredients, you ensure a gorgeously gooey, perfectly baked result every time.

Understanding the Nutritional Aspects of Your Delicious Breakfast Casserole

The Cinnamon Roll Casserole is, without a doubt, a decadent treat designed for enjoyment, not dieting. When considering the nutritional aspects, it is important to remember that this dish is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and sugar, and is best consumed as an occasional indulgence or for special celebrations.

Since this recipe relies heavily on store-bought components (the cinnamon rolls and icing), the precise nutritional content will vary slightly depending on the brand of dough used (e.g., Pillsbury Grands vs. a store brand). However, we can provide a general estimation based on an average serving size from a 9×13 dish, assuming the casserole yields 12 generous servings.

Estimated Nutritional Value (Per Serving, 1/12th of Casserole):

• Calories: 350 – 450 kcal (highly dependent on the icing amount and dairy choice).
• Total Fat: 18g – 25g (primarily from the butter, high-fat dairy, and the enriched dough).
• Saturated Fat: 8g – 12g.
• Carbohydrates: 45g – 60g (a significant portion derived from refined flour and sugars).
• Sugars: 30g – 40g (added sugar from the brown sugar coating, dough, and icing).
• Protein: 7g – 10g (contributed mainly by the four large eggs and the milk/half-and-half).

Please note: These figures are estimates. For exact figures, you should use an online nutrition calculator inputting the specific brands and measurements used in your kitchen.

Ingredient Benefits (In Context)

While the focus of the Cinnamon Roll Casserole is flavor, some ingredients do offer nutritional contributions:

• Eggs: The four large eggs provide a substantial amount of protein, which is vital for muscle repair and satiety. Eggs are also packed with essential vitamins like choline and B vitamins. The protein content helps slow the digestion of the high amount of carbohydrates in the dough.
• Milk/Half-and-Half: Dairy contributes calcium, necessary for bone health, and Vitamin D. Using half-and-half increases the fat content, which, in moderation, helps the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins present in other foods.
• Cinnamon: Beyond flavor, cinnamon is a potent spice known for its antioxidant properties. Although the amount consumed in one serving is small, studies have also suggested cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar, offering a small counter to the high sugar content of the dessert.

When enjoying this Cinnamon Roll Casserole, it’s best to view it as a treat. Serving it alongside fresh fruit, a source of fiber and vitamins, such as berries or citrus fruit, can help create a more balanced brunch plate. Remember that joyous eating is part of a healthy lifestyle, and allowing yourself to enjoy decadent dishes like this Cinnamon Roll Casserole occasionally is important!

FAQs About the Cinnamon Roll Casserole

The Final Word on the Easy Cinnamon Roll Casserole

The Cinnamon Roll Casserole stands as a testament to the fact that convenience and quality can indeed coexist in the kitchen. By utilizing simple, store-bought ingredients and combining them with a rich, homemade custard, we transform a canned product into a truly spectacular, crowd-pleasing dish. This recipe is more than just a quick breakfast; it’s a comforting, gooey, and utterly delicious experience that brings warmth and cheer to any table.

We’ve covered everything you need: the necessary ingredients, the simple process of cutting and coating the rolls, the easy custard preparation, and the crucial tips for achieving a perfect bake golden on the outside, sticky and tender on the inside. Whether you are hosting a festive holiday brunch or simply treating your family to a cozy weekend breakfast, this Cinnamon Roll Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Remember the importance of thoroughly greasing your pan and drizzling that perfect icing while the casserole is still warm.

Don’t wait until the next holiday to try this recipe. Grab those cans of refrigerated rolls today and discover how easy it is to create a truly unforgettable breakfast bake. If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below, or share your delicious creation on social media! For more easy and comforting recipes, check out my other Spanish-inspired favorites, like my delicious Tortilla de Patatas. Happy baking!

Ultimate Cinnamon Roll Casserole

This incredibly easy breakfast bake combines refrigerated cinnamon rolls, rich brown sugar butter, and a creamy egg custard to create a pull-apart casserole drizzled with signature icing. It's perfect for brunch or a holiday morning.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole Base & Icing

• 2 cans (12.4 ounce) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (such as Grands!, 8 rolls per can)
• 2 containers icing Reserved from cinnamon roll cans

Flavor & Custard Mixture

• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Plus extra for dusting, optional
• Pinch salt

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk

Method

 

Preparation and Cutting

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Open the cans of cinnamon rolls, setting both containers of icing aside for later use. Place the rolls onto a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut each of the 16 cinnamon rolls into four evenly sized pieces (quarters). Place all the cut pieces into a very large mixing bowl.

Mixing the Flavors and Custard

1. In a small bowl, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in the ½ cup of light brown sugar and the 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until well combined. Pour this mixture over the cut cinnamon roll pieces in the large mixing bowl. Toss gently until the roll pieces are evenly coated with the brown sugar and butter mixture.
2. In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs, ½ cup of whole milk or half-and-half, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt. Whisk until the custard mixture is fully blended and slightly frothy.

Assembly and Baking

1. Pour the egg and milk custard mixture over the cinnamon roll pieces in the large mixing bowl. Fold the ingredients together gently once more to ensure all the roll pieces are coated in the liquid.
2. Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the pieces out evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and bubbling, and the custard is fully set (a knife inserted near the center comes out clean).

Glazing and Serving

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. If the reserved icing seems too thick, whisk in a tiny amount of milk (about ½ teaspoon per container) to loosen it.
2. Drizzle the entire amount of icing evenly over the warm casserole. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, you can prep this casserole the night before. Assemble up through Step 5, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap, and refriger refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and add 5-10 minutes to the total baking time to compensate for the chilled ingredients.