Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

Irresistible Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

Whipping up delectable cinnamon roll french toast bites can turn an ordinary morning into a sweet celebration of flavor.

Each morsel carries the comforting essence of classic breakfast treats.

Soft bread cubes absorb a rich custard mixture, promising incredible texture in every bite.

Warm spices dance through the kitchen, creating an irresistible aroma that draws everyone to the table.

Simple ingredients combine to craft something magical and indulgent.

Crispy edges and tender centers make these miniature delights perfect for leisurely weekend breakfasts or spontaneous brunch gatherings.

You won’t be able to resist these delightful morsels that blend the best of two beloved breakfast classics.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites for Cozy Brunches

  • A speedy morning treat that transforms cinnamon rolls into irresistible French toast bites in just minutes.
  • Perfect for picky eaters and families, these bite-sized morsels are fun to eat and even more enjoyable to make together.
  • Easily adapts to both refrigerated cinnamon rolls and bread, making it a flexible recipe for spontaneous weekend cooking adventures.
  • Uses one skillet, simple ingredients, and creates minimal mess, allowing more time for enjoying breakfast and less time washing dishes.

All You Need for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Main Ingredients:

Cinnamon Rolls or Bread: .

  • Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, sweet base that adds rich flavor and texture to the French toast bites. Refrigerated rolls work best for quick preparation.
  • Bread: A classic alternative with a neutral base that absorbs egg mixture perfectly. Slightly stale bread works great for better absorption.
Egg Mixture Base:
  • Eggs: Provides rich binding and creates the classic French toast custard. Fresh eggs ensure the best texture and flavor.
  • Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth coating for the bites. Whole milk recommended for richness.
  • Vanilla Extract: Brings warm, sweet depth to the egg mixture. Pure vanilla extract offers the best flavor.
Spice and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds warm, sweet spice that complements the cinnamon rolls. Fresh, high-quality ground cinnamon makes a difference.
  • Nutmeg: Provides subtle, aromatic warmth to the overall flavor profile. Freshly grated nutmeg is more potent than pre-ground.
Cooking and Coating Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a golden, crispy exterior and prevents sticking. Unsalted butter allows better flavor control.
  • Cinnamon Sugar: Sweet coating that adds extra crunch and flavor. Mix equal parts ground cinnamon and granulated sugar.
Glaze Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates smooth, sweet drizzle for topping. Sifted sugar prevents lumps in the glaze.
  • Milk: Thins the glaze to desired consistency. Adjust amount for perfect drizzling texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds subtle sweetness.

Easy Steps to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Step 1: Slice Up The Rolls

  • Slice refrigerated cinnamon rolls into four equal pieces
  • For bread option, cut into bite-sized cubes

Step 2: Create Magical Egg Wash

Ingredients:
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Nutmeg

Whisk all ingredients together in a mixing bowl until thoroughly combined

Step 3: Bathe The Bites

Gently dunk each cinnamon roll piece into the egg mixture, ensuring complete coverage

Step 4: Sizzle And Brown

  • Heat butter in a large skillet over medium temperature
  • Place coated bites into the pan
  • Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy

Step 5: Dust With Sweet Goodness

Create a cinnamon sugar mixture and lovingly coat warm bites

Step 6: Drizzle The Finishing Touch

Ingredients:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Whisk ingredients until smooth and silky

Step 7: Serve And Celebrate

Generously drizzle glaze over warm bites and enjoy immediately with friends and family

Tips for the Fluffiest Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

  • Precise Roll Cutting: Use a sharp knife to slice cinnamon rolls evenly into four uniform pieces for consistent cooking and texture.
  • Perfect Egg Mixture Balance: Whisk eggs, milk, and spices thoroughly to ensure every bite is equally flavored and has a creamy, smooth coating.
  • Control Cooking Temperature: Maintain medium heat while frying to achieve golden-brown exteriors without burning the delicate cinnamon roll pieces.
  • Quick Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Toss warm bites immediately in cinnamon sugar mixture while hot to help sugar adhere and create a delightful crispy exterior.
  • Smooth Glaze Technique: Gradually add milk to powdered sugar and stir until reaching a drizzle-friendly consistency that flows beautifully over the French toast bites.

Save and Reheat French Toast Bites Without Losing Texture

  • Store leftover French toast bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Spread cooled bites on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
  • Warm refrigerated or frozen bites at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until heated through, restoring crispiness.
  • Zap refrigerated bites for 15-20 seconds, but expect slightly softer texture compared to oven reheating.

Best Sides for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

  • Pair these cinnamon roll French toast bites with a creamy vanilla latte that mirrors the dessert's warm spices and enhances its rich, sweet profile.
  • Serve alongside fresh mixed berries or a light raspberry compote to add a tangy contrast and brighten the dense, sweet bites.
  • Top with homemade whipped cream infused with a hint of cinnamon or maple to amplify the breakfast treat's warmth and indulgence.
  • Enjoy with cold milk or a fresh-squeezed orange juice to balance the richness and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet, buttery bites.

French Toast Bite Variations Worth Trying

  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace regular cinnamon rolls with gluten-free cinnamon rolls or use gluten-free bread cubes for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Alternative: Substitute eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
  • Low-Carb Version: Swap traditional rolls with almond flour-based keto cinnamon rolls or use low-carb bread cubes to reduce carbohydrate content.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine for those with lactose intolerance.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites FAQ Roundup

  • Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade cinnamon rolls work perfectly! Just ensure they’re cooled slightly before cutting into bite-sized pieces for easier handling.

  • How do I prevent the French toast bites from becoming soggy?

Don’t soak the cinnamon roll pieces too long in the egg mixture. A quick dip is enough to coat them without making them overly wet. Pat off excess liquid before cooking.

  • What's the best way to get a crispy exterior?

Use a non-stick skillet or griddle and cook over medium heat. Make sure the butter is hot but not burning, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior.

  • Can I make these ahead of time?

These are best served fresh and warm. While you can prepare the components in advance, the bites are most delicious when cooked and served immediately for maximum crispiness and flavor.

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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe


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4.8 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Indulgent “Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites” blend classic breakfast magic with irresistible sweetness. Crispy edges, gooey centers, and rich cinnamon flavor promise a delightful morning treat you’ll savor with pure breakfast bliss.


Ingredients

Scale

Cinnamon:

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Bread:

  • 1 can (12 ounces / 340 grams) refrigerated cinnamon rolls
  • 4 thick slices of brioche bread, cubed (alternative)

Eggs and Dairy:

  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) milk
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Spices:

  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sugars:

  • ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • ½ cup (60 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Slice refrigerated cinnamon rolls into four equal pieces or cube bread into 1-inch segments for uniform cooking.
  2. Create a rich custard base by whisking eggs with milk, introducing vanilla, ground cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg until fully incorporated.
  3. Carefully submerge each roll piece or bread cube into the egg mixture, ensuring complete coverage for maximum flavor absorption.
  4. Warm a skillet or griddle, gently melting butter to create a smooth, non-stick cooking surface.
  5. Strategically place the egg-coated pieces onto the heated surface, allowing them to transform into golden-brown delicacies.
  6. Rotate each bite every 2-3 minutes, ensuring even caramelization and thorough internal cooking.
  7. Transfer the freshly cooked morsels into a waiting bowl of cinnamon sugar, gently tumbling to coat each piece with a sweet, spicy layer.
  8. Craft a silky glaze by blending powdered sugar with milk and vanilla, whisking until achieving a smooth, pourable consistency.
  9. Artfully drizzle the glossy glaze over the warm cinnamon roll bites, creating an enticing visual and flavor finale.
  10. Serve immediately while the bites remain warm and the glaze glistens, promising a delectable breakfast treat.

Notes

  • Swap refrigerated cinnamon rolls with homemade or bakery-fresh rolls for richer flavor and texture.
  • Create gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread or certified gluten-free cinnamon rolls, ensuring even coating with egg mixture.
  • Prevent soggy bites by patting bread or rolls dry before dipping and using medium heat to achieve crispy golden exterior.
  • Make ahead by preparing egg mixture and cutting rolls night before, storing separately in refrigerator to save morning prep time.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 650 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Jessica Martinez

Jessica Martinez

Pastry Chef & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Organic Baking Techniques, Gluten-Free Recipe Development, Southwestern Dessert Specialties, Food Styling and Photography

Education

Santa Fe Community College (SFCC)

  • Program: Certificate in Patisserie
  • Focus: Cultivating disciplined kitchen preparation for a safe, organized, and sanitary workstation; mastering the timely production of nutritious, visually appealing pastries; safely operating standard pastry equipment; and honing core patissier techniques for professional pastry work.

Jessica brings the sweet side to Urban Organic with her passion for baking and love for the Southwest. She trained at Santa Fe Community College and has built a career creating beautiful, gluten-free, and organic desserts that feel both nostalgic and new.

She believes baking should be fun, creative, and open to everyone, no matter your diet or skill level. Jessica’s recipes are simple enough to follow, but special enough to remember.

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