Irresistibly Bright Overnight Orange Roll Casserole – 7 Powerful Reasons This Make-Ahead Brunch Is Pure Magic

Oh my dear friends, thank you for being here. Truly. This recipe? It has a story.

I served this Overnight Orange Roll Casserole when my neighbor stayed over one weekend. The next morning, she took one bite, paused, and said, “How does this taste so bright and soft at the same time?” I just smiled and told her I’d share the recipe.

And today, I’m sharing it with you.

This casserole is citrusy, fluffy, buttery, and perfectly sweet — with fresh orange zest and juice bringing sunshine into every single bite. The best part? You prep it the night before. Morning-you will be so grateful.

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Now let’s make something unforgettable.

Overview of Overnight Orange Roll Casserole

This is a make-ahead breakfast casserole made with soft orange rolls soaked in a citrus custard, then baked until golden and slightly crisp on top while staying pillowy inside.

Why You’ll Love It

• Make-ahead convenience
• Bright citrus flavor
• Soft, custardy center
• Perfect for holidays or weekend brunch
• Feeds a crowd
• Smells incredible while baking

What It Tastes Like

Imagine orange sweet rolls meeting French toast. The top is lightly golden, the inside is tender and fluffy, and the orange glaze melts into every nook.

It’s bright. It’s comforting. It’s special.

Full Ingredients (Complete & Detailed)

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Casserole Base

• 2 cans (12.4 oz each) refrigerated orange sweet rolls (with icing reserved)
• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup fresh orange juice (about 2 oranges)
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for greasing)

Optional Orange Glaze (If Not Using Packet Icing)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• ½ teaspoon orange zest

Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Zester
• Plastic wrap

How to Make Overnight Orange Roll Casserole

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Step 1: Prepare Dish

Grease a 9×13 baking dish with melted butter.

Cut orange rolls into quarters and arrange evenly in the dish.

Step 2: Make Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together:

• Eggs
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Orange juice
• Orange zest
• Sugar
• Vanilla
• Cinnamon
• Salt

Pour mixture evenly over rolls.

Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 6 hours or overnight.

The rolls will absorb that beautiful citrus custard.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until golden and set in the center.

Step 5: Glaze & Serve

Warm reserved icing or whisk fresh glaze ingredients.

Drizzle generously over warm casserole.

Serve immediately.

What to Serve with Overnight Orange Roll Casserole

This casserole pairs beautifully with:

• Fresh berries
• Scrambled eggs
• Crispy bacon
• Greek yogurt
• Freshly brewed coffee

For a full brunch spread, try these from my kitchen:

• https://poulef.com/gluten-free-banana-bread
• https://poulef.com/no-bake-energy-bites
• https://poulef.com/vegan-chocolate-chip-cookies
• https://poulef.com/protein-cookie-dough
• https://poulef.com/easy-homemade-carbonara

A mix of sweet and savory makes brunch unforgettable.

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Use fresh orange zest — it makes a difference.
• Let sit overnight for best texture.
• Don’t overbake; center should be set but soft.
• Add chopped pecans for crunch.
• Sprinkle powdered sugar before serving for presentation.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days.
Reheat: Microwave individual slices 30–40 seconds.
Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.

General Information

Make-ahead breakfast casseroles became popular in American kitchens in the mid-20th century — perfect for holidays and gatherings.

The citrus twist makes this version feel fresh and elevated, while still comforting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without refrigerating overnight?

Yes, but refrigerate at least 2 hours minimum.

Can I use homemade orange rolls?

Absolutely.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based milk and cream alternatives.

Can I add nuts?

Yes — pecans or sliced almonds work beautifully.

Why is my casserole soggy?

It may need a few more minutes baking.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 10 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	380 kcal
Carbohydrates	48g
Sugar	28g
Protein	7g
Fat	17g
Saturated Fat	8g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	420mg

Interactive Element

If you make this Overnight Orange Roll Casserole, I would absolutely LOVE to see it.

Save it and share your version on Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/

Leave a comment below and tell me — did your guests ask for the recipe too?

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