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Best Slow Cooker Cinnamon Roll Casserole for Christmas Morning

slow cooker cinnamon roll casserole - featured image

A hands-off, overnight slow cooker cinnamon roll casserole that creates a soft, custard-like texture with caramelized edges. Perfect for a stress-free Christmas morning breakfast that feeds a crowd.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for topping)
  • 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prep the slow cooker (5 minutes): Spray the inside of your slow cooker generously with non-stick cooking spray.
  2. Cut the cinnamon rolls (10 minutes): Open both cans of cinnamon rolls and set the icing packets aside in the fridge. Cut each roll into quarters (or sixths if using a smaller slow cooker). Place the pieces in a large bowl.
  3. Make the custard (5 minutes): In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and pale yellow.
  4. Layer the casserole (10 minutes): Pour half the cut cinnamon roll pieces into the slow cooker. Drizzle half the melted butter over them, then sprinkle half the brown sugar. Repeat with the remaining rolls, butter, and brown sugar. Pour the custard evenly over everything. Gently press down with a spatula to submerge the pieces.
  5. Add the topping (optional, 5 minutes): If using nuts or dried fruit, sprinkle them over the top and press in gently.
  6. Cover and refrigerate (overnight, 8-12 hours): Cover the slow cooker with aluminum foil, then put the lid on. Place the whole insert in the fridge overnight.
  7. Cook on low (morning of, 2.5-3 hours): In the morning, remove the foil, put the lid back on, and cook on LOW for 2.5 to 3 hours. The casserole is done when the center is set and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Add the glaze (5 minutes before serving): Microwave the reserved icing packets for 10-15 seconds until pourable. Drizzle generously over the top. Let it sit for 5 minutes so the glaze sets slightly.
  9. Serve warm: Scoop directly from the slow cooker.

Notes

The overnight soak is non-negotiable for the best texture. Do not cook on HIGH. Use the foil trick to prevent condensation. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after cooking before glazing. Double the glaze if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker cinnamon roll casserole, Christmas breakfast, overnight breakfast casserole, cinnamon roll casserole, holiday breakfast