Introduction
When I’m craving something sweet, indulgent, and utterly delicious, Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites always come to mind. Combining two classic breakfast favorites—cinnamon rolls and French toast—these bite-sized treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth in the most glorious way. Whether you’re making them for a special brunch, a cozy weekend breakfast, or just because you deserve something sweet, these bites are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
I came up with this recipe after one of those mornings when I couldn’t decide between French toast and cinnamon rolls. I figured, why not combine both? The result was these warm, cinnamon-spiced bites that are crispy on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, and coated with a decadent glaze. It’s like having the best of both worlds in one bite-sized piece.
What makes this recipe even better is that it’s incredibly easy to make. You only need a few ingredients, and it comes together quickly—perfect for those lazy mornings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile! You can make it with pre-made cinnamon rolls, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can use homemade dough. Either way, these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are bound to become your new favorite breakfast treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
These cinnamon roll French toast bites can easily be customized. Want to add a bit of fruit or nuts? Go ahead! You can also try making them with different types of syrup or whipped cream for extra sweetness.
Budget-Friendly
With just a few basic ingredients like cinnamon rolls, eggs, and butter, this recipe is an affordable way to make something special. Plus, the ingredients are ones you likely already have on hand, so you won’t need to run to the store.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing included)
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup milk
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1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
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1/4 cup maple syrup (for serving)
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Optional: powdered sugar (for dusting)
How to Make This Recipe
Making Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites is incredibly simple, and it doesn’t take long to bring this sweet treat to life. Here’s how to make these crispy, gooey bites that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the cinnamon rolls
Start by opening the can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. Remove the rolls and set aside the icing (you’ll need it later). Slice each cinnamon roll into small bite-sized pieces—aim for about 4-5 pieces per roll. This step will ensure each piece cooks evenly and absorbs the delicious French toast coating.
Step 2: Whisk the egg mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. The egg mixture is what will coat your cinnamon roll pieces, giving them that familiar French toast texture and flavor. Whisk until the eggs are fully beaten and the ingredients are well combined.
Step 3: Heat the skillet
Place a large skillet or frying pan on the stove over medium heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan and allow it to melt completely. The butter will create a rich, golden crust on the cinnamon roll bites as they cook, adding flavor and texture.
Step 4: Dip the cinnamon rolls
Once the butter is hot and bubbly, it’s time to dip the cinnamon roll pieces into the egg mixture. Take each piece of cinnamon roll and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess mixture drip off before placing the coated roll pieces into the skillet.
Step 5: Cook the French toast bites
Place the cinnamon roll pieces into the skillet in a single layer. You may need to cook the pieces in batches depending on the size of your skillet. Cook the pieces for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. The goal is to create a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft and gooey.
Step 6: Drizzle with icing
Once the cinnamon roll French toast bites are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. While they’re still warm, drizzle the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls over the top. The icing will melt slightly, creating a sweet, sticky glaze that coats each bite.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
For an extra indulgent touch, you can sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top for a little sweetness and a touch of elegance. Serve your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or your favorite topping. Enjoy!
Quick and Easy
The best part about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, you’ll have a delicious, indulgent breakfast or brunch ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a special treat to enjoy with family or need something simple yet satisfying for a weekend morning, these cinnamon roll French toast bites are the perfect choice.
Customizable
One of the great things about these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites is that you can easily customize them to suit your taste. Want to add a bit of fruit? Try topping your bites with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a fresh, fruity twist. You can also try sprinkling chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.
If you want to make them even more decadent, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness. For a spicier kick, a pinch of nutmeg in the egg mixture can give these bites a warm, holiday-inspired flavor.
Perfect for Guests
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are also great for serving guests. The bite-sized pieces make them easy to serve and eat without fuss, and they’re sure to be a hit at your next brunch gathering. You can easily make a large batch if you’re feeding a crowd, and they pair wonderfully with coffee or a mimosa. They’re simple to prepare but feel indulgent enough to impress your guests.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls for this recipe?
Yes! If you prefer to make your own cinnamon rolls, you can absolutely use them instead of store-bought ones. Just be sure to slice them into bite-sized pieces before dipping them in the egg mixture, as homemade rolls tend to be larger.
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the cinnamon roll bites and cook them as directed. Afterward, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm them up in a skillet for a few minutes.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Absolutely! These bites freeze really well. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven or microwave. You can even toast them to regain that crispy texture.
Can I add extra ingredients like fruit or nuts?
Definitely! You can add fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas, or blueberries to the cinnamon roll bites before cooking. Nuts like walnuts or pecans can also be sprinkled on top for extra flavor and crunch. Be creative with the toppings!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them before serving for the best taste and texture.