Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

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When I say these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites disappeared in seconds, I mean it. I made a tray thinking it would last a couple of days as a fun weekend breakfast treat, but the moment they hit the table, they were gone. Warm, gooey, swirled with cinnamon and coated in a sweet glaze, these bite-sized beauties are everything you’d want in a cozy breakfast snack.

What makes them so magical is the way they blend the comfort of a cinnamon roll with the crisp golden edges of classic French toast. It’s like your favorite diner breakfast and a bakery indulgence had a baby. I knew I was onto something good when my family kept sneaking back to the kitchen for “just one more.”

I’ve played around with versions of this idea before, but this one finally nails the perfect texture. Slightly crisp on the outside, melt-in-your-mouth soft inside, and dripping with a glaze that pulls everything together. They’re almost too good to save for breakfast, which is why I’ve also served them as a dessert more than once!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

These bites are a mashup of two irresistible favorites, making them endlessly craveable. They’re quick and easy, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or a special brunch spread. The caramelized cinnamon swirl creates that warm bakery aroma that instantly makes your kitchen feel like home. Plus, they’re finger-friendly and fun to eat, which means both kids and adults will go wild for them.

Ingredients

Cinnamon Rolls: Use store-bought canned cinnamon rolls or homemade if you prefer. They bring the signature swirl and sweet flavor.

Eggs: Essential for the custard base that gives French toast its soft, rich texture.

Milk: Helps thin the egg mixture and adds a creamy texture. Whole milk is ideal.

Vanilla Extract: Adds a layer of warmth and depth to the custard.

Ground Cinnamon: To double down on the cinnamon flavor.

Butter: For pan-frying the bites to golden perfection.

Powdered Sugar and Milk (for glaze): These create the drizzle that makes them look bakery-worthy.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Step 1: Prep the Cinnamon Rolls

Open the can of cinnamon rolls and separate each roll. Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut each roll into quarters. Set aside the icing packet that comes in the can—you’ll use it later.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and a touch of ground cinnamon. This is your French toast batter.

Step 3: Dip and Soak

Toss the cinnamon roll pieces into the custard mixture and let them sit for about a minute to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Cook Until Golden

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter. Cook the soaked cinnamon roll bites in batches, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and cooked through. This usually takes about 6–8 minutes.

Step 5: Glaze and Serve

Warm the icing packet slightly (10–15 seconds in the microwave) and drizzle it generously over the bites. For extra flair, you can whisk powdered sugar with a splash of milk to make additional glaze if needed.

Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cinnamon-loaded magic!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

For a fun seasonal twist, try adding a pinch of pumpkin pie spice to the custard in the fall. If you’re looking for something richer, replace the milk with half-and-half. Want to make it dairy-free? Use almond or oat milk and pan-fry with coconut oil instead of butter.

You can also use crescent roll dough rolled in cinnamon sugar if you don’t have cinnamon rolls. For the glaze, swap the vanilla icing with a maple syrup drizzle or even a tangy lemon glaze for contrast. Kids especially love a chocolate drizzle version using Nutella or melted chocolate chips.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These bites are perfect as-is, but they shine even brighter when served with a few fun extras. A fresh fruit salad on the side balances the sweetness with something light. They also pair beautifully with a warm mug of chai or coffee.

If you’re serving brunch, stack them high on a plate with toothpicks for easy sharing. Add a bowl of warm maple syrup or vanilla yogurt on the side for dipping. Or turn them into a full-on breakfast board with scrambled eggs, bacon, and orange slices.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt you will), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or microwave them for about 15–20 seconds.

You can also freeze them before glazing—just let them cool completely, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes, then glaze fresh.

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard and cut the cinnamon rolls ahead. Store them separately and dip/fry just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.

What kind of cinnamon rolls work best for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?

Canned cinnamon rolls with icing work wonderfully, especially the ones with flaky layers. Homemade cinnamon rolls will taste amazing but might need longer to cook.

Can I bake the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites instead of frying?

You can. Arrange them on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.

How do I keep Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites from becoming soggy?

Don’t over-soak them in the custard. A quick toss is enough. Also, make sure your skillet is hot enough so they cook quickly and develop a crust.

Are Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites good for kids?

Absolutely! They’re finger-sized, sweet, and fun to eat. Great for breakfast, snacks, or even party trays.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love the warmth of cinnamon and sweet breakfast treats, you should definitely try The Best Homemade Cinnamon Roll Icing Recipe. It pairs perfectly with these bites or can be used to upgrade any roll or pancake.

You might also enjoy the Southern Hummingbird Cake Recipe for a decadent Southern dessert that’s packed with tropical flavor.

For something savory, check out Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions to balance out your breakfast or brunch menu.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites recipe made your morning magical, don’t forget to pin it to your breakfast or brunch board on Pinterest. Share it on Facebook to spread the sweetness or tag someone who would love this! Bookmark it, save it, and come back to it whenever you need a quick and cozy treat.

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