If you’re craving a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a big, delicious hug, the Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish transforms classic cinnamon rolls into a gooey, custardy casserole that gently cooks all morning long, filling your kitchen with the most inviting aromas. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy weekend brunch or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe hits every note of sweetness and spice, delivering a show-stopping breakfast that literally makes mornings better.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this casserole is simple but essential, each one playing a special role in balancing flavor, texture, and richness. From the cinnamon roll dough itself to the warm spices and creamy custard, everything works together to create that perfect melt-in-your-mouth bite.
- Cinnamon roll dough: Using 2 tubes cut into quarters makes layering easy and ensures fluffy, tender bites.
- Eggs: Bind the casserole together, adding structure and richness to the custard base.
- Half-and-half or whipping cream: Adds creamy silkiness, making each piece beautifully moist.
- Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that deepens flavor and complements cinnamon perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses warm sweetness and rounds out the spice profile.
- Cinnamon: Essential spice that gives the casserole its signature flavor and inviting aroma.
- Nutmeg: Adds a subtle, fragrant warmth that enhances the cinnamon’s depth.
- Chopped pecans: Provide satisfying crunch and a nutty contrast to tender rolls.
- Icing from the cinnamon rolls: The best finishing touch, melting into a luscious glaze.
How to Make Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Crock Pot
Start by giving your 6-quart Crock Pot a generous spray with cooking spray. Greasing the crock pot well prevents sticking and helps keep those cinnamon roll quarters intact and easy to serve after cooking.
Step 2: Layer the Cinnamon Rolls
Take your cinnamon roll dough, cut into quarters, and place the pieces evenly across the bottom of the crock pot. This even layering sets the stage for a consistent bake, ensuring each bite has that fluffy dough packed full of cinnamon goodness.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine eggs, half-and-half, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk everything until smooth and well combined—this flavorful custard will soak into the cinnamon pieces, turning the casserole irresistibly creamy.
Step 4: Pour the Mixture and Add Pecans
Slowly pour your custard mixture over the cinnamon rolls in the crock pot, allowing the liquid to gently seep between the layers. Then sprinkle chopped pecans on top to add a delightful crunch that balances the softness of the casserole.
Step 5: Add the First Layer of Icing
Spoon one container of the icing that comes with your cinnamon rolls over the top of the mixture. This melts and caramelizes slightly during cooking, creating pockets of sugary glaze throughout the casserole.
Step 6: Cook Until Golden and Set
Cover the crock pot and cook on LOW for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is golden brown on top and the custard is set but still tender inside. This slow cooking lets flavors bloom while keeping the texture perfect.
Step 7: Finish with Icing and Serve
Once done, turn off the crock pot and spoon the second container of icing on top for a luscious, glossy finish. Serve the casserole warm, and get ready for those ooey-gooey cinnamon roll vibes to delight every bite.
How to Serve Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While the casserole is already incredible on its own, a sprinkle of fresh chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon can add a beautiful finishing touch. For an extra cozy flair, try adding a drizzle of warm maple syrup or a few fresh berries on the side to cut through the sweetness with a pop of color.
Side Dishes
Pair this cinnamon roll casserole with simple, fresh sides like crisp fruit salad or tangy yogurt. The brightness balances the richness of the casserole perfectly without overwhelming those warm, cinnamon-spiced flavors that make this dish so special.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress guests? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions or layer the casserole in a clear crock pot so guests can see those beautiful cinnamon spirals swimming in custard. Another fun idea is to top each serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent brunch twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day breakfast or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole before cooking by assembling everything in a freezer-safe crock pot insert or baking dish. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as directed, adding extra cook time if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, microwave individual servings for about 30-45 seconds or warm the whole casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil until warmed through. Adding a little extra icing on top after reheating brings back that fresh-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the cinnamon roll dough is sturdy enough to hold up during slow cooking. Gluten-free rolls might have a slightly different texture, but the flavors will still shine beautifully in this casserole.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
For a vegan twist, try replacing eggs with a flax egg mixture and use a plant-based cream substitute. Just be aware the texture will be a bit different, but you can achieve a delicious version with these adjustments.
Can I add other nuts besides pecans?
Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts work well and provide a nice crunch. Just toast them slightly beforehand to enhance their flavor and texture.
How can I tell when the casserole is fully cooked?
The casserole should be golden brown on top and the center should be set but still slightly soft. If you gently shake the crock pot and the custard doesn’t jiggle excessively, it’s ready to come out.
Can this recipe be doubled?
For larger gatherings, you can double the ingredients and use two crock pots or a larger slow cooker if you have one. Just make sure not to overcrowd your crock pot to ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably comforting and special about waking up to the aroma of a warm cinnamon roll casserole brewing in the crock pot. This Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is pure breakfast magic, effortlessly combining classic flavors with a hands-off approach that lets you relax while your kitchen fills with irresistible scents. Whether it’s for a holiday brunch or a lazy weekend treat, this recipe is a delicious way to make mornings unforgettable. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite breakfast tradition.
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 warm, comforting breakfast dish perfect for lazy mornings or special occasions. Using store-bought cinnamon roll dough, this easy recipe layers sweet rolls with a rich egg custard, spices, and pecans, all slow-cooked to golden perfection in a crock pot. Topped with creamy icing, it makes a deliciously indulgent treat that requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll Base
- 2 (12-ounce) tubes cinnamon roll dough, each cut into quarters
Egg Mixture
- 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
Toppings
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
- 2 containers of icing from cinnamon roll tubes (about 8 ounces total)
Instructions
- Spray the Crock Pot: Grease a 6-quart crock pot with cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking during slow cooking.
- Layer Cinnamon Rolls: Arrange the quartered cinnamon rolls evenly across the bottom of the prepared 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 fully combined and smooth.
- Pour Mixture: Slowly pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the crock pot to soak them thoroughly.
- Add Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Add Icing: Spoon one container of the cinnamon roll icing over the top of the pecans and mixture for added sweetness and creaminess while cooking.
- Cook: Cover the crock pot with its lid and cook on LOW for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the casserole is golden brown on top and fully set in the center.
- Finish: Once cooking is complete, turn off the crock pot and spread the second container of icing over the hot casserole. Serve warm for the best taste.
Notes
- Do not open the lid frequently during cooking to maintain consistent heat and ensure even baking.
- If your crock pot runs hot, start checking the casserole around 2 hours to avoid overcooking.
- For added fruitiness, consider adding fresh berries before pouring the egg mixture.
- Use pecans or substitute with walnuts for different nutty flavors.
- This casserole can be kept warm in the crock pot on the ‘keep warm’ setting for up to an hour before serving.
