Delicious Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Easy Overnight Recipe for Breakfast Bliss

Posted on July 31, 2025

Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Roll Casserole - featured image

The first time I made this Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Roll Casserole, my kitchen smelled like a bakery on a sunny morning! Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of cinnamon rolls mingling with fresh strawberries and a hint of vanilla. Honestly, it’s a breakfast dream come true. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for lazy weekends or special brunch gatherings. I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for something fun and easy to whip up, and let me tell you, it has quickly become a family favorite!

What I love about this casserole is its versatility. You can prepare it the night before, which means less stress in the morning. Just pop it in the oven when you wake up, and in no time, you’ll have a scrumptious breakfast ready to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just treating yourself on a Sunday morning, this recipe is a game-changer. Plus, it’s a great way to use those fresh strawberries when they’re in season. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get started on this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Roll Casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Roll Casserole is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a delightful experience! Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for it:

Quick & Easy: You can prepare this casserole in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already, so no fancy grocery runs are needed!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or just a cozy weekend, this casserole is sure to impress.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a delightful dish that gets rave reviews from everyone, including picky eaters!
Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of soft, sweet cinnamon rolls with fresh strawberries and a creamy custard is pure bliss!

This isn’t just any cinnamon roll casserole; it’s a special twist that brings together the flavors of strawberry shortcake with the comfort of cinnamon rolls. The secret? The creamy custard that soaks into the cinnamon rolls, making every bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Trust me, this dish has the kind of flavor that makes you close your eyes and savor the moment. It’s comfort food reimagined and perfect for impressing your guests without any stress!

Ingredients Needed

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:
- 2 cans of refrigerated cinnamon rolls, 12 oz each (don’t forget the icing)
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%, for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup whipped cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh strawberries, for garnish
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

These ingredients are all about convenience and flavor. I suggest using fresh strawberries when they’re in season for the best taste. If you can’t find fresh ones, frozen will do in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and drain them first. Oh, and if you want to make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free cinnamon rolls available in most grocery stores!

Equipment Needed

Gathering your kitchen tools can streamline the cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Sharp knife (for slicing strawberries)
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven mitts (safety first!)

If you don’t have a 9×13 inch baking dish, any similar-sized dish will work. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly. I often use glass bakeware because it cooks evenly and lets you see how the casserole is browning!

Preparation Method

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly.
Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Open the cans of cinnamon rolls and separate them. Cut each roll into quarters and place them into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Add the Strawberries: Evenly distribute the sliced strawberries over the cinnamon rolls. Don’t be shy; the more berries, the better!
Make the Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.
Pour Over Rolls: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cinnamon rolls and strawberries, making sure everything is coated.
Allow to Soak: Let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes so the cinnamon rolls can absorb some of the custard.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the middle. You can check with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Prepare the Icing: While the casserole is baking, prepare the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls according to the package instructions.
Serve: Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle the icing over the top, and if desired, top with whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and a dusting of powdered sugar before serving.

One tip I’ve learned is to keep an eye on the casserole as it bakes. Ovens can vary, and you want that perfect golden brown crust without burning the edges. The smell while it’s baking is pure bliss, so be prepared for everyone to gather in the kitchen!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfect every time:

Don’t Skip the Soaking: Letting the cinnamon rolls soak in the custard mixture is crucial for flavor and texture. It prevents dry spots and enhances the overall richness.
Monitor the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking your casserole around the 25-minute mark. You want it to be set but not overcooked.
Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to add in some vanilla bean paste or almond extract for a twist on the classic flavor.
Watch for Common Mistakes: Sometimes, people rush the cooling process. Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to cut into squares.
Multitask: While the casserole is baking, whip up some fresh whipped cream or brew your favorite coffee. It’s a great time to prepare a cozy atmosphere!

Variations & Adaptations

While this Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Roll Casserole is delicious as-is, here are some fun variations to try:

Berry Medley: Swap out strawberries for a mix of fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. This gives you a more colorful and fruity twist!
Chocolate Chip Delight: Add chocolate chips to the mix for an indulgent treat. Just sprinkle them over the cinnamon rolls before adding the custard.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a crunchy texture. Just sprinkle them on top before baking.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free cinnamon rolls to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap the milk for a dairy-free alternative, like almond or oat milk, and use dairy-free whipped cream to keep it deliciously vegan!

Experimenting with these variations can lead to exciting new flavors and keep your breakfast routine fresh!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This casserole is best served warm, straight from the oven. Here are some serving tips:

Presentation: Serve in squares, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberries for a beautiful presentation.
Complementary Dishes: Pair it with crispy bacon or sausage for a balanced breakfast spread.
Storage: You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Flavor Development: The flavors of the casserole can deepen overnight, so leftovers are just as tasty!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Roll Casserole is not only a treat for your taste buds but also offers some nutritional benefits:

Approx. 300 calories per serving (based on 12 servings).
High in vitamin C from fresh strawberries, which boosts immunity and skin health.
Provides a good source of calcium from milk and eggs.
Can be made gluten-free and dairy-free to accommodate various dietary needs.

As someone who loves to keep things balanced, I appreciate that you can indulge in this dish while still feeling good about what you’re eating.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon Roll Casserole is truly a breakfast recipe worth trying! It’s easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. I love how you can customize it based on what’s in season or your personal taste preferences. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a go-to in your household.

So why not give it a whirl? I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts or any variations you tried. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of this delightful casserole!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare it the night before and bake it in the morning.
Can I use frozen strawberries? Absolutely! Just thaw and drain them before adding to the casserole.
How do I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I use other fruits? Yes! Feel free to experiment with different berries or even peaches!
Is this recipe suitable for special diets? You can make it gluten-free and dairy-free with the right substitutions!

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