I grew up eating orange rolls. You know the ones … by Pillsbury. Yep, each year on Christmas morning, these were our special treat. And you know what? Mom was right. Christmas morning should be as simple as popping open a can, placing some rolls on a cookie sheet and spreading on the orange-flavored icing when they are finished baking. But these orange rolls are getting harder to find, and I do like the idea of actually making something sorta from scratch.
PinAren’t these dishes fun? They are made by Vietri. I found these at Corzine & Co., but you can find a link for a full listing of retailers at the end of today’s article.
This recipe blends my nostalgia for the Pillsbury orange roll in an easy-to-make French toast casserole that you can make ahead, on the 24th, in no time at all. Then, simply bake on Christmas morning, and voila! You have the best breakfast around. Add some eggs and bacon if you need the protein, but really, all anyone will want is a scoop of this deliciousness with a side of fruit. I promise.
PinChristmas Day breakfast is served!
If you want it even more like the Pillsbury rolls, drizzle on some icing. I found a good recipe for mimicking the real deal here.PinFresh fruit, French toast casserole, festive dishes, poinsettias, hot chocolate and even a plaid napkin with a Christmas tree napkin holder … that’s what I’m talking about! Sugar crash to commence 90 minutes after consuming … open presents quickly, and then nap!
1large loaf of French bread from Panerasliced and diced (or about 10 cups of one-inch cubed French bread)
18-ounce package cream cheese, softened
8large eggs
1cup2 % milk
1cuphalf-and-half
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1teaspooncinnamon
Zest of 1 orange
Juice of same orange
2Tablespoonspowdered sugar
Topping:
2Tablespoonspowdered sugar
1cupchopped bourbon pecansoptional (I prefer the ones at Whole Foods and Trader Joe's.)
Instructions
Coat a 9 x13-inch glass baking dish with butter.
Arrange the bread cubes in the baking dish. Place the cream cheese in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Add the eggs,1 at a time, beating after each addition. Add the milk, half-and-half, vanilla, cinnamon, orange zest, orange juice and powdered sugar; mix until smooth.
Pour this mixture over the top of the bread cubes and cover with plastic wrap. Chill overnight.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Remove the dish from the refrigerator, remove plastic wrap, and let stand for 20 minutes. Bake 45 to 50 minutes (test by sticking a knife in the center). Sprinkle with additional powdered sugar and chopped bourbon pecans just before serving.
Notes
Adding some orange-flavored gooey icing may be just what you want. If this is you, check out this recipe HERE for some icing to drizzle over the top!
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