Overnight Orange Roll Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a breakfast treat that feels both indulgent and refreshing, the Overnight Orange Roll Casserole is an absolute must-try. This delightful dish combines the gooey, cinnamon-spiced warmth of orange rolls with a bright, citrusy twist that wakes up your taste buds. It’s a perfect balance of soft, buttery bread infused with a luscious orange custard, topped with a creamy, zesty glaze. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or just want to start your day with something special, this casserole is easy to prepare ahead and sure to impress. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become one of your favorite breakfast traditions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient is carefully chosen to contribute essential flavor, texture, and color. From the rich butter to the fresh orange zest, these elements blend together to create a harmonious and crave-worthy casserole.

• 1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds a rich, buttery base that keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.
• 2 cans refrigerated orange rolls, quartered: The star of the dish, bringing that tender cinnamon swirl infused with orange flavor.
• 4 eggs: Bind the casserole together and add a fluffy, custard-like texture.
• 1/3 cup heavy whipping cream: Enriches the custard mixture, making the casserole irresistibly creamy.
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar: Offers a gentle sweetness with a subtle molasses depth that complements the orange zest.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and warms up the citrus notes.
• Zest and juice of 1 orange: The fresh orange zest and juice provide that bright, tangy punch that defines this dish.
• For the icing: 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon orange zest, 3-4 tablespoons orange juice, 2 tablespoons melted butter — all combine into a luscious glaze that brings everything together.

How to Make Overnight Orange Roll Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Rolls

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F when you’re ready to bake. To ensure the rolls don’t stick and get that lovely buttery flavor on the bottom, pour the melted butter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and swirl it around to coat the surface. Then, arrange the orange roll quarters evenly in the dish, creating a comfy nest for your custard soak.

Step 2: Make the Orange Custard Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together your eggs, heavy whipping cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and both the zest and juice from your fresh orange. This custard base is beautifully fragrant and sweet, ready to soak into the rolls and elevate their flavor to pure magic.

Step 3: Combine and Chill

Pour that luscious custard mixture evenly over the arranged roll pieces. If you’re prepping this dish a day ahead, cover it tightly with foil and pop it in the refrigerator overnight. This soaking time is what gives the casserole its incredible texture by allowing the flavors to meld deeply and the rolls to absorb all that creamy goodness.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Uncover your casserole and slide it into the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the rolls are cooked through and just soft in the center. The scent wafting from your oven will have everyone rushing to the kitchen.

Step 5: Make the Zesty Icing and Serve

While your casserole cools for about 10 minutes, prepare the icing by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, orange zest, and 3 tablespoons of orange juice. Stir in the melted butter and adjust the consistency with more juice or powdered sugar as needed. Drizzle this glossy, aromatic icing generously over the warm casserole, and you’re ready to dive into the perfect morning indulgence!

How to Serve Overnight Orange Roll Casserole

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add a fresh contrast, sprinkle extra orange zest or even thin slices of fresh orange over the icing. A few fresh mint leaves lend a lovely color pop and aroma that brighten the dish even further. For a touch of crunch, toasted pecans or almonds complement the tender rolls beautifully.

Side Dishes

This casserole shines on its own, but pairing it with fresh berries or a simple fruit salad offers a refreshing balance. If you want to round out your brunch, crispy bacon or a light spinach salad with a citrus vinaigrette are fantastic companions that won’t compete with the casserole’s citrus notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a lovely brunch buffet, consider making individual portions by layering the casserole in small ramekins or mason jars. Drizzle the orange glaze just before serving to keep each portion looking fresh and inviting. Another fun idea is to serve it alongside a homemade whipped cream flavored lightly with orange zest, offering an extra layer of indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Overnight Orange Roll Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled will preserve the texture and flavor. When ready to enjoy, simply warm individual slices gently in the microwave or oven.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole, either before baking or after it’s cooled completely. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and consider adding a fresh drizzle of the orange icing before serving to revive that fresh flavor.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a microwave-safe dish for about 30-60 seconds until warmed through, or place in a preheated 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to regain a bit of that freshly baked texture. Adding a sprinkle of fresh orange zest after reheating can lift the flavors wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen orange rolls instead of refrigerated ones?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw frozen orange rolls completely before cutting and assembling. The texture may change slightly but the flavor will still be delightful.

Is it necessary to make the icing from scratch?

Not at all. If you’re short on time, you can use the icing that comes with the canned orange rolls for a quick finish. However, the homemade orange glaze really adds an extra layer of brightness and richness if you have a few extra minutes.

Can I use a different type of citrus for this casserole?

While this recipe shines brightest with orange, you can experiment with lemon or even grapefruit zest and juice for a different but equally fresh flavor twist.

How long can I leave the casserole in the fridge before baking?

Up to 24 hours is ideal for the best flavor and texture. The custard has enough time to soak into the rolls perfectly, making every bite soft and flavorful.

Is this casserole suitable for feeding a crowd?

Definitely! The recipe scales up easily, and since it’s made in a 9×13-inch dish, it’s perfect for brunch parties or family gatherings.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about waking up to the aroma of an Overnight Orange Roll Casserole baking in the oven. It’s comforting yet refreshingly bright, simple yet impressive. Take a little time to prepare it the night before and treat yourself and your loved ones to a breakfast that feels like a celebration. I promise, this will become a go-to recipe whenever you want a warm hug of flavor with a citrusy twist.

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