If you’re craving a breakfast that combines the best of two classic comfort foods, look no further than Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites. This indulgent treat takes the beloved cinnamon roll and transforms it into bite-sized French toast, making it a fun and delicious option for breakfast or brunch. Golden on the outside and soft on the inside, these French toast bites are loaded with the sweet, warm flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, with a rich buttery finish.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, including store-bought cinnamon rolls, eggs, and milk, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare. The cinnamon rolls are pan-fried in a buttery skillet, then drizzled with the included icing or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness. Perfect for a weekend breakfast, holiday mornings, or whenever you’re craving something special, these bites are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you serve them as a fun finger food or a decadent breakfast dish, Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are guaranteed to make your morning a little sweeter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Using refrigerated cinnamon rolls cuts down on prep time while still delivering big flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: Fun and bite-sized, these treats are perfect for little hands and picky eaters.
- Customizable: Add toppings like powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream for a personal touch.
- Indulgent: The combination of cinnamon rolls and French toast is a decadent breakfast or brunch option.
- Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings or special occasions.
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Ingredients
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
- Large eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon
- Butter
- Powdered sugar (optional, for serving)
- Maple syrup or icing from the cinnamon rolls (optional, for serving)
Variations
- Fruit Toppings: Serve with fresh berries, banana slices, or a drizzle of fruit syrup.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
- Spiced Version: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth.
- Nuts: Top with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Non-Dairy Version: Use almond milk or oat milk and dairy-free cinnamon rolls for a vegan alternative.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt butter to coat the surface.
Step 2
While the skillet heats up, cut each cinnamon roll into quarters, making bite-sized pieces.
Step 3
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined.
Step 4
Dip each cinnamon roll piece into the egg mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
Step 5
Place the coated cinnamon roll pieces into the hot skillet, cooking in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6
Once the cinnamon roll bites are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 7
Drizzle with the icing from the cinnamon roll can or top with maple syrup. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cook in batches to ensure the bites are crispy and golden.
- Keep the heat medium: Avoid cooking over high heat to prevent burning. Medium heat ensures an even golden brown.
- Customize your toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Serve immediately: These are best enjoyed fresh out of the skillet while they’re still warm and crispy.
- Leftover cinnamon rolls: This recipe is a great way to repurpose leftover cinnamon rolls for a new breakfast experience.
How to Serve
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a fresh orange juice for a full breakfast.
- Perfect for special occasions like birthdays or holidays—serve them family-style on a large platter.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
- Enjoy with a drizzle of extra maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave for best results.
Freezing
Freeze leftover bites on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. Reheat by baking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Reheating
To reheat, place the bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warm and crispy again.
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Yes! Just make sure they are cooked and cooled before cutting them into pieces.
2. How do I make these dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cinnamon rolls, almond milk, and a plant-based butter substitute.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh, but you can prepare the cinnamon roll pieces and egg mixture ahead of time and refrigerate for easy assembly in the morning.
4. Can I add more spices?
Yes, a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or even cardamom would pair beautifully with the cinnamon.
5. How do I prevent the cinnamon roll bites from becoming soggy?
Ensure the cinnamon rolls are coated evenly in the egg mixture but not soaked. Also, cook them in batches and at a medium heat to maintain crispiness.
6. Can I make this in the oven?
You can bake the cinnamon roll pieces in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispness.
7. Can I freeze the cinnamon roll bites?
Yes, freeze them after cooking, and reheat them in the oven for a quick breakfast.
8. What can I serve with these cinnamon roll bites?
Pair with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a side of bacon for a balanced breakfast.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.
10. Can I use a different type of roll?
You can try using other sweet rolls like sticky buns, but the flavor will vary from the classic cinnamon roll taste.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the ultimate breakfast indulgence, combining the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the crispy, egg-coated goodness of French toast. Quick, easy, and incredibly delicious, these bites are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself to a weekend breakfast or preparing something special for a brunch gathering. Customize with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a decadent twist on two classic favorites that will leave everyone asking for more.
PrintCinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the perfect combination of sweet, fluffy cinnamon rolls and crispy French toast. Dipped in a rich egg batter, pan-fried to golden perfection, and topped with syrup or icing, they’re a fun and indulgent breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients
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1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
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2 large eggs
-
1/4 cup milk
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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2 tablespoons butter
-
Powdered sugar (optional, for serving)
-
Maple syrup or icing from the cinnamon rolls (optional, for serving)
Instructions
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Preheat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat.
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Open the can of cinnamon rolls and separate the rolls. Cut each roll into 4 bite-sized pieces.
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In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
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Melt butter in the griddle or skillet.
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Dip each cinnamon roll bite into the egg mixture, coating it evenly. Then place it onto the hot skillet.
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Cook the bites for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
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Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Drizzle with the icing from the cinnamon rolls or maple syrup, and optionally dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
-
For an extra sweet treat, add some chopped fruit like bananas or berries on top.
- These also work well for a quick breakfast or brunch when serving a crowd.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American