If you are craving the cozy, sweet comfort of cinnamon rolls but want something that can cook itself while you handle your morning hustle, let me introduce you to the Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe. This dish takes the beloved cinnamon roll to a whole new level by layering it into a soft, custardy casserole that slowly bakes in your slow cooker. It is perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or any time you want a warm, sweet treat without babysitting the oven. Every bite is a blend of fluffy dough, warm spices, and gooey icing—all made effortlessly in one pot!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe begins with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the casserole’s luscious texture, rich flavor, and inviting aroma.
- Cinnamon roll dough: Using two tubes of cinnamon roll dough cut into quarters ensures a soft and flaky base full of cinnamon sugar goodness.
- Eggs: They bind the casserole together and add a custard-like richness to the dish.
- Half-and-half or whipping cream: Adds creaminess and a tender crumb that keeps the casserole moist.
- Maple syrup: Brings natural sweetness and a subtle depth of flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances every component with a warm, sweet fragrance.
- Cinnamon: The star spice that gives this dish its signature cozy aroma and taste.
- Nutmeg: A pinch adds warmth and complexity without overpowering.
- Chopped pecans: A nutty crunch that contrasts delightfully with the soft layers.
- Cinnamon roll icing: The final luscious drizzle that makes every bite irresistibly sweet and creamy.
How to Make Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crock Pot
Start by greasing your 6-quart Crock Pot with cooking spray. This simple step ensures that the casserole won’t stick and will slide right out when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Layer the Cinnamon Rolls
Cut the cinnamon roll dough into quarters and arrange them evenly at the bottom of the Crock Pot. This creates the hearty base that will soak up the egg mixture perfectly.
Step 3: Mix the Egg Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. This mixture infuses the casserole with creamy richness and spiced sweetness.
Step 4: Combine and Add Pecans
Carefully pour the egg mixture over the layered cinnamon rolls, making sure every piece gets a little love. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on top for that delightful texture contrast.
Step 5: Add the First Layer of Icing
Spoon one container of the cinnamon roll icing over the mixture. This will melt into the casserole as it cooks, creating pockets of sugary gooeyness.
Step 6: Crock Pot Cooking Time
Cover the crock pot and cook on LOW for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. The casserole is done when it turns golden brown and is set in the center—a beautiful, soft, and fluffy masterpiece.
Step 7: Final Touches
Turn off the crock pot and spoon the remaining container of icing on top just before serving. This fresh icing layer adds creaminess and a beautiful glossy finish that guests will adore.
How to Serve Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon can elevate the dish visually and add a bit of crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft casserole.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a cup of hot coffee or chai tea to mellow out the sweetness and round out your breakfast spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the casserole in rustic bowls or on a wooden platter with additional cinnamon sticks as decoration. Layering with fresh fruit on the side adds vibrant colors and balances the decadence beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps beautifully and tastes even better when reheated gently.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked casserole by assembling it in a freezer-safe Crock Pot liner or dish. Freeze for up to a month, then thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as usual.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the microwave or oven until warm throughout. Adding a little extra icing or butter before warming can revive that fresh-from-the-pot creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of half-and-half?
While regular milk will work, half-and-half or whipping cream gives that extra creamy texture that makes this casserole truly decadent.
Is it possible to make this recipe in the oven instead of a Crock Pot?
Yes, you can bake it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 30-40 minutes until set and golden, but the Crock Pot gives it a uniquely soft and moist texture.
Can I omit the nuts if I have allergies?
Absolutely! The pecans add great crunch, but leaving them out won’t affect the overall flavor or texture much.
What type of cinnamon roll dough is best to use?
Refrigerated store-bought cinnamon roll tubes are convenient and delicious for this recipe, but you can also use homemade dough if you want to get fancy.
How long can I leave the casserole on the warm setting?
It’s best to enjoy the casserole soon after cooking, but if you need to keep it warm, a couple of hours on the warm setting is fine without drying it out.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe is truly a breakfast game changer—effortless to prepare and packed with all the sweet, gooey goodness you love about cinnamon rolls. Whether feeding a crowd or treating yourself, it offers a warm hug in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved recipe in your own kitchen!
Print
Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crock Pot Cinnamon Roll Casserole is a deliciously easy breakfast or brunch dish that combines soft cinnamon roll dough with a rich, spiced egg custard, pecans, and maple syrup. Slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot, it offers a warm, gooey, and comforting treat topped with creamy icing, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy morning at home.
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 that come with cinnamon rolls
Instructions
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Spray the inside of a 6-quart crock pot with cooking spray to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.
- Layer the Cinnamon Rolls: Arrange the cinnamon roll quarters evenly across the bottom of the crock pot, forming a base layer.
- Mix the Eggs: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half (or whipping cream), maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Egg Mixture: Carefully pour the egg and spice mixture over the cinnamon rolls in the crock pot, ensuring that the rolls are evenly coated.
- Add Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Add the First Icing Layer: Spoon one container of the icing onto the surface of the mixture, distributing it evenly but not mixing it in.
- 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 and the custard is set but still moist.
- Finish and Serve: Turn off the crock pot, spoon the second container of icing on top of the warm casserole, and serve immediately for a decadent treat.
Notes
- Cooking time may vary depending on your crock pot model; start checking around 2 1/2 hours.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute half-and-half with coconut cream and use dairy-free cinnamon rolls and icing.
- Adding pecans adds a nice crunchy texture, but they can be omitted or replaced with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- This casserole can be prepared the night before by assembling it in the crock pot insert and refrigerating, then cooking in the morning (add extra cooking time if starting cold).
- Use fresh cinnamon roll dough for the best texture and flavor.
