Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for an irresistibly fun twist on a classic breakfast treat, Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are about to become your new obsession. This playful mash-up combines the gooey, spiced swirls of cinnamon rolls with the comforting custard dip of classic French toast, then transforms them into golden, poppable bites perfect for brunch, special mornings, or anytime you need comfort in a hurry. Whether you’re making these for kids, a festive brunch crowd, or just to add some extra joy to your weekend, this recipe delivers major flavor and nostalgia in every bite-sized piece.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: just a handful of familiar ingredients come together to create something truly magical! Each component has its part to play, from enhancing richness and spice to ensuring your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites have the perfect texture and color.
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: Store-bought cinnamon rolls offer all the flavor and spiral fun, plus a sweet icing for drizzling.
- Large eggs: Eggs create that essential creamy custard bath, binding everything together and giving the bites that classic French toast flavor.
- Milk: Just enough milk ensures the custard is light and soaks nicely into each piece.
- Vanilla extract: A tiny splash of vanilla deepens the bakery aroma and makes the whole kitchen smell inviting.
- Ground cinnamon: Extra cinnamon means extra comfort, reinforcing that signature swirl in every bite.
- Pinch of salt: Just a pinch sharpens the sweetness and brings all the flavors together.
- Butter (for cooking): Butter in the skillet helps crisp up the edges and infuses every bite with a golden finish.
- Maple syrup and icing (for serving): Sweet dips and drizzles transform each bite into a bakery-worthy finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Step 1: Prep the Cinnamon Rolls
Start by opening the can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls—a satisfying little pop!—and carefully pulling out those rolled swirls. Cut each roll into quarters for perfect bite-sized pieces. This not only makes them easier to cook but ensures you get maximum golden edges and gooey cinnamon in every morsel.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until everything is completely blended and slightly frothy. This cozy custard will transform your cinnamon roll pieces, giving them all the magic of French toast in one dreamy dunk.
Step 3: Dip and Soak
Drop the cinnamon roll quarters into the custard mixture, making sure each piece gets fully coated—don’t rush this step! A thorough soak means they’ll cook up moist and flavorful, with that delightful French toast outer crust.
Step 4: Sizzle and Cook
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a generous tablespoon of butter, swirling it to cover the pan. Add the soaked cinnamon roll bites in batches, giving each a little space. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they’re puffed, golden brown, and the cinnamon swirls caramelize at the edges—it’s pure breakfast joy!
Step 5: Serve Warm with Toppings
Once cooked through, transfer the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites to a plate and keep warm while you finish the rest. Don’t forget the best part: drizzle the included icing right over the top, and serve with maple syrup on the side for dipping. Every bite is a heavenly mix of spiced bread, glaze, and syrupy comfort.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Garnishes
The finishing touches can take your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites from delicious to unforgettable. Try a flourish of the included icing over the bites, then add a shower of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of extra cinnamon on top for bakery-level visuals and taste. For a special touch, a handful of finely chopped pecans or toasted walnuts brings crunch and pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
Side Dishes
Round out your breakfast spread by pairing these bites with sides that balance their sweetness. Fresh fruit salad or citrus wedges cut through the richness, while creamy Greek yogurt brings a cool, tangy contrast. For heartier appetites, crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage are classic companions, playing off the sweetness of your French toast bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn serving into a celebration by threading your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites onto skewers for a fun, dunkable breakfast-on-a-stick. Arrange them in a big, colorful platter with piles of fresh berries and a trio of dips: maple syrup, the included icing, and perhaps a chocolate sauce. Kids (and adults) will love picking their favorites, and it makes for a stunning brunch centerpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have any bites left, pop them into an airtight container once fully cooled. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep the icing separate so you can drizzle it after reheating for the best texture and presentation.
Freezing
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are surprisingly freezer-friendly! Spread cooled bites out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge overnight or gently reheat from frozen for a fast, delicious treat.
Reheating
To reheat, arrange the bites on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes, or microwave in short bursts until heated through. Finish with a fresh drizzle of icing and your breakfast will taste just-out-of-the-skillet, no matter the day.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of refrigerated dough?
Absolutely! If you have time and love making from-scratch cinnamon rolls, go for it—just bake them, cool slightly, and cut into quarters before following the recipe steps. The flavor will be even more special and personal.
What’s the best way to ensure the bites aren’t soggy?
Make sure you don’t over-soak the cinnamon roll pieces in the custard mixture—just enough to coat them is perfect. Cooking them at medium heat allows the outsides to crisp while the insides stay tender, never mushy.
Can these be made gluten-free or dairy-free?
Yes! Look for gluten-free cinnamon roll dough (many stores carry it), and swap the milk for a non-dairy option like almond or oat milk. Use plant-based butter for cooking, and check that your icing is dairy-free too.
How can I make them extra crispy?
After pan-frying, pop the cooked French toast bites into a 375°F oven for about 5 minutes. This quick bake gives gorgeous crisp edges without drying them out—especially great if you’re making a big batch.
Do these work for brunch parties or as a make-ahead dish?
Definitely! You can prep everything in advance, even cooking the bites ahead of time. Reheat in the oven just before guests arrive, then set out the icing and maple syrup for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing brunch display.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: they capture all the comfort of your favorite cinnamon rolls and the nostalgia of French toast, but in a sharable, snackable package. Whether you’re whipping them up for a special occasion or just to bring a little joy to your morning routine, I hope you’ll try this recipe and fall in love with every bite!
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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a delightful twist on classic French toast, combining the flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of bite-sized French toast. Perfect for a special breakfast or brunch treat!
Ingredients
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites:
- 1 can (12.4 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking)
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Icing (included with cinnamon rolls)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: Open the can of cinnamon rolls and cut each roll into quarters.
- Cook the Bites: Dip the cinnamon roll pieces into the egg mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Serve: Remove from the skillet and keep warm while cooking the remaining pieces. Serve warm with icing drizzled on top and maple syrup for dipping.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the coated cinnamon roll bites in batches and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, finish the bites in a 375°F oven for 5 minutes after pan-frying.
- Great for brunch or as a fun weekend breakfast treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 6 bites
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 390mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
