Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole: Heavenly Holiday Brunch Hack!

Tired of the same old breakfast options during the holiday season? Looking for something that combines the festive flavors of fall with the comfort of a warm, gooey morning treat? This Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole is about to become your new holiday tradition! With the beloved taste of pumpkin pie transformed into an irresistible cinnamon roll bake, this recipe delivers pure breakfast magic in every bite.

In this recipe guide, you’ll discover how to create this showstopping pumpkin pie cinnamon roll casserole with minimal effort, learn tips for perfect texture, explore flavor variations, and get answers to common questions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or treating your family to a special weekend breakfast, this casserole is guaranteed to impress.

Why This Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole Works

• Uses convenient refrigerated cinnamon rolls as the perfect base
• Combines two beloved treats – pumpkin pie and cinnamon rolls – into one irresistible dish
• Prep takes less than 15 minutes for maximum holiday entertaining ease
• Make-ahead friendly for stress-free holiday mornings
• Perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors that everyone loves

Choosing the Right Ingredients for Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Best Cinnamon Rolls for This Recipe

For the ultimate pumpkin pie cinnamon roll casserole, opt for premium refrigerated cinnamon rolls with cream cheese icing. The Pillsbury Grand’s variety offers larger rolls that create a substantial base, while Trader Joe’s and Annie’s brands provide excellent all-natural options with outstanding flavor.

Pumpkin Perfection

Always choose 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) for the cleanest pumpkin flavor. Libby’s is consistently reliable, but organic store brands work wonderfully too. The pure pumpkin allows you to control the sweetness and spice levels.

Substitutions

If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade cinnamon roll dough works beautifully. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can replace heavy cream, and plant-based butter substitutes well in the pumpkin layer.

Ingredients & Prep for Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Casserole Base Essentials

• 2 packages refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
• 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Pumpkin Layer Preparation

Reserve the icing packets and cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. The smaller pieces ensure better distribution of the pumpkin mixture throughout the casserole for that perfect texture in every bite.

Optional Enhancements

Consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or 1/3 cup white chocolate chips for extra indulgence. A sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top creates a delightful caramelized finish.

Step-by-Step Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole Instructions

Pre-Cooking Prep for Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Open cinnamon roll packages, set aside the icing packets, and cut each roll into quarters.
3. Arrange the cinnamon roll pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Creating the Pumpkin Filling for Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, heavy cream, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
2. Pour this luscious pumpkin mixture evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces, ensuring all pieces are coated.

If you’re looking for more amazing breakfast treats, check out our No-Knead Cranberry Walnut Bread for another holiday favorite!

Baking Your Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

1. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the center is set and the tops are golden brown.
3. Check doneness by inserting a knife in the center – it should come out clean with no wet batter.

Finishing Your Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

1. While still warm, drizzle with the reserved icing packets.
2. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set properly.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Achieving the Ideal Texture

• Don’t overmix the pumpkin filling – a few small lumps are fine and help maintain fluffiness.
• For gooier results, reduce baking time by 5 minutes; for a more set casserole, add 5 minutes.
• The casserole will continue to set as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems slightly jiggly in the center when removed from the oven.

Tool Recommendations

A glass baking dish provides the best results as it conducts heat evenly. If using metal, reduce the temperature by 25°F. A silicone spatula is perfect for gently folding ingredients without deflating the mixture.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds, or warm the entire casserole in a 300°F oven for 15 minutes. For best results, add a splash of cream before reheating to maintain moisture.

Flavor Variations for Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Seasonal Twists

• Maple Pecan: Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the pumpkin mixture and top with toasted pecans
• Chai Spice: Replace pumpkin pie spice with 1 tablespoon chai spice blend for a complex flavor profile
• Apple-Pumpkin: Fold in 1 cup of diced sautéed apples to the pumpkin mixture before pouring

Browse our Pinterest boards for even more amazing breakfast inspiration that will transform your holiday mornings!

Dietary Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free cinnamon rolls (Katz brand works well)
• Reduced Sugar: Cut brown sugar to 1/4 cup and use cinnamon rolls with less icing
• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and use vegan butter

Serving Suggestions for Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

This pumpkin pie cinnamon roll casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. Try serving with crisp apple slices or fresh berries. For an extra indulgent brunch, offer a side of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream for guests to add as desired.

Coffee is the ultimate companion – try a medium roast with notes of caramel or vanilla to complement the pumpkin spice flavors. For a non-caffeinated option, spiced apple cider or chai tea makes a wonderful pairing.

If you love the combination of cranberry and sweet breads, you might also enjoy our No-Knead Rosemary Cranberry Bread for a more savory option!

FAQs About Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Can I make this pumpkin pie cinnamon roll casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking and add 5-7 minutes to the baking time.

Can I freeze this casserole?

This casserole can be frozen after baking and cooling completely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 325°F oven until warmed through.

My casserole seems too wet in the middle. What went wrong?

This usually means it needs more baking time. Every oven is different, so next time try baking for 5-10 minutes longer. Also ensure you’re using pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which has higher moisture content.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Par-bake homemade cinnamon rolls for 10 minutes before adding the pumpkin mixture to ensure they don’t get soggy.

For more delicious cinnamon roll variations, check out our Heavenly Red Velvet Cinnamon Rolls recipe!

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Pie Cinnamon Roll Casserole brings together the best of two beloved treats in one showstopping breakfast dish. Perfect for holiday mornings, weekend brunches, or any time you want to make breakfast feel special, it delivers cozy fall flavors with minimal effort.

The combination of soft, gooey cinnamon rolls and creamy pumpkin pie filling creates a texture and flavor experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Best of all, the simple preparation means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time making memories with those you love.

Give this recipe a try this season and discover why thousands of home cooks have made it part of their holiday tradition. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your family will crown you breakfast champion!