Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

Cozy Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe For Breakfast Joy

Breakfast just got a delightful upgrade with these heavenly cinnamon roll French toast bites that combine two beloved morning treats into one irresistible bite.

Sweet spices and soft bread mingle together, creating a mouthwatering fusion that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds.

The crispy edges and soft center make these little morsels absolutely addictive.

Warm notes of cinnamon dance through each piece, promising a flavor explosion in every single bite.

Simple ingredients transform an ordinary morning into something extraordinary.

Weekend brunch or weekday breakfast, these bites bring joy and comfort to your table.

Prepare to fall in love with the most delectable morning treat that will become your new breakfast obsession.

Why Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Deserve a Spot at Breakfast

  • Transform Ordinary Breakfast: Upgrade classic cinnamon rolls into a delightful French toast experience that turns a simple morning meal into something extraordinary.
  • Quick and Playful Preparation: Whip up these bite-sized treats in minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous weekend brunches with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Kid-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Create a fun, interactive breakfast that children will love, with cute bite-sized pieces they can easily pick up and enjoy with their favorite toppings.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Customize with various toppings like maple syrup, cream cheese glaze, fresh berries, or powdered sugar to match different taste preferences and make each bite unique.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Ingredient Lineup

Main Ingredients:
  • Cinnamon Rolls: Soft, sweet pastries that form the base of this delightful breakfast treat.
  • Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the French toast batter.
  • Milk: Creates a creamy and smooth texture for the batter.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, sweet depth of flavor to the dish.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Brings a classic, warm spice that complements the cinnamon rolls.
Cooking and Serving Ingredients:
  • Butter, Maple Syrup: Essential for cooking and adding moisture and sweetness to the French toast bites.
  • Powdered Sugar, Whipped Cream, Fresh Berries: Optional toppings that add extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: From Start to Finish

Step 1: Bake Cinnamon Rolls

Grab your refrigerated cinnamon rolls and pop them in the oven.

Cook them just shy of the package instructions to keep them slightly firm.

After pulling them out, let the rolls cool down for a quick 5 minutes.

Slice each roll into cute one-inch chunks that will become your tasty bites.

Step 2: Whip Up Delicious Batter

Grab a mixing bowl and crack open some eggs.

Pour in milk, splash of vanilla, and sprinkle ground cinnamon.

Whisk everything together until the mixture looks smooth and has tiny bubbles.

Make sure to mix well so the cinnamon doesn’t just float on top.

Step 3: Coat Roll Pieces

Take your adorable cinnamon roll pieces and dive them into the egg mixture.

Use a fork to help them get completely soaked on all sides.

Let excess batter drip off so they’re not too soggy.

Step 4: Prepare Cooking Surface

Warm up a non-stick skillet over medium heat.

Drop in some butter and let it melt until it gets bubbly but doesn’t turn brown.

Step 5: Cook to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the battered roll pieces into the skillet.

Don’t crowd them – give each bite some space.

Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Flip them over and cook another 1-2 minutes.

Add more butter between batches if needed.

Step 6: Create a Stunning Presentation

Transfer your crispy bites to a serving plate.

Drizzle with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze while they’re still warm.

Feel free to sprinkle:
  • Fresh berries
  • Powdered sugar
  • Whipped cream

Enjoy your magical breakfast creation!

Tips for Extra-Fluffy Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

  • If your cinnamon rolls are too firm, briefly microwave them for 10-15 seconds to soften before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
  • Whisk the French toast mixture thoroughly and continuously to ensure the cinnamon distributes evenly and doesn't settle at the bottom.
  • Use medium heat to achieve a golden-brown exterior without burning the delicate cinnamon roll pieces.
  • Quickly dip and drain each piece to avoid soggy bites, letting excess batter drip off for a crispy, light texture.
  • Experiment with toppings like toasted nuts, caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of sea salt to add unexpected flavor dimensions.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: Flavors to Try Next

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace refrigerated cinnamon rolls with gluten-free cinnamon rolls or make homemade gluten-free rolls using alternative flour blends like almond or coconut flour.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Substitute eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap traditional cinnamon rolls for keto-friendly cloud bread or almond flour-based rolls, using monk sweetener and reducing carbohydrate content.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Use lactose-free milk, coconut milk, or almond milk instead of regular milk, and replace butter with dairy-free margarine or coconut oil.

Plating Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Like a Pro

  • Breakfast Bliss Plate: Arrange these delightful bites on a colorful ceramic plate with a small pitcher of warm maple syrup nearby for drizzling.
  • Sweet Morning Companion: Pair the cinnamon roll French toast bites with a hot cup of coffee, cappuccino, or fresh fruit smoothie to complete the breakfast experience.
  • Berry Beautiful Garnish: Scatter fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries around the plate to add a burst of color and natural sweetness to the presentation.
  • Creamy Dreamy Topping: Create a quick cream cheese glaze by mixing powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and softened cream cheese, then drizzle generously over the warm bites for extra indulgence.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: Storing for Later

  • Store leftover cinnamon roll French toast bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture.
  • Warm the stored bites in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispy texture. Alternatively, use a toaster oven or air fryer for quick and even reheating.
  • Pack the cooled French toast bites in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 1 month for future enjoyment. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls work perfectly. Just ensure they’re slightly firm and cooled before cutting into bite-sized pieces.

  • What if I don't have vanilla extract?

No worries. You can substitute with almond extract or simply skip it. The cinnamon and eggs will still provide plenty of flavor.

  • How do I prevent the cinnamon roll bites from falling apart?

Cut the rolls when they’re slightly cooled and handle them gently. Using a fork to dip and turn helps maintain their shape during battering and cooking.

  • Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! Kids love these bite-sized treats. They’re fun to eat, easy to customize with toppings, and make breakfast feel like a special occasion.

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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe


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4.8 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Indulgent cinnamon roll french toast bites bring sweet breakfast magic to your morning table. Crispy edges, warm spices, and creamy centers make these mini delights irresistible for weekend brunch companions.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Toppings and Optional Garnishes:

  • Maple syrup
  • Cream cheese glaze
  • Fresh berries
  • Powdered sugar
  • Whipped cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to package instructions for cinnamon rolls. Remove rolls 1-2 minutes early to maintain slight firmness. Cool for 5 minutes, then slice into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
  2. Create a rich batter by whisking eggs, milk, vanilla, and ground cinnamon in a medium bowl until thoroughly blended and slightly foamy. Ensure cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
  3. Submerge each cinnamon roll piece into the batter, using a fork to coat completely and allow excess liquid to drain.
  4. Warm a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Melt butter until it bubbles but doesn’t brown.
  5. Arrange battered pieces in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes for crispy exterior. Replenish butter between batches as needed.
  6. Transfer crispy bites to a serving plate. Embellish with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze while hot. Optional garnishes include fresh berries, powdered sugar dusting, or a dollop of whipped cream.

Notes

  • Softening Rolls Early ensures the cinnamon rolls maintain a slightly firm texture, preventing them from becoming too mushy when dipped in the French toast batter.
  • Whisking Thoroughly helps distribute the ground cinnamon evenly throughout the egg mixture, creating a more consistent flavor in every bite.
  • Controlling Pan Heat prevents burning and allows for even golden-brown caramelization, giving the bites a perfect crispy exterior and soft interior.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation can be achieved by using gluten-free cinnamon rolls and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
  • Make-Ahead Tip involves preparing the bites and storing them in an airtight container, then reheating in a toaster oven for a quick breakfast option.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Dessert
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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