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Easy Overnight Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake Recipe with Cream Cheese

overnight cinnamon roll french toast bake - featured image

A cozy and indulgent French toast bake combining cinnamon rolls, eggs, milk, and cream cheese, prepared overnight for a stress-free, delicious brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 large cinnamon rolls (store-bought, unbaked; recommended Pillsbury)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or 2% milk (can substitute almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese, softened (Philadelphia brand recommended)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) packed brown sugar
  • A pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for greasing the dish and adding richness)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting or optional glaze)

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Unroll the cinnamon rolls and slice each into 6 to 8 pieces (about 48 pieces total). Arrange evenly in the prepared dish.
  3. In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and spreadable. Add a teaspoon of milk if needed to loosen.
  4. Dollop spoonfuls of cream cheese over the cinnamon roll pieces and gently swirl with a butter knife or spatula to create pockets.
  5. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until fully combined and slightly frothy.
  6. Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls and cream cheese. Press down gently to help pieces soak up the liquid without mashing.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours.
  8. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove cover and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and custard is set.
  9. If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking.
  10. Let the bake cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature eggs, milk, and cream cheese for a smoother custard. Do not skip the overnight soak for best texture. If the top browns too fast, tent with foil. Softening cream cheese properly and swirling gently creates creamy pockets without density. Can be adapted for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon roll, french toast bake, cream cheese, overnight recipe, brunch, easy breakfast, comfort food