Why settle for one breakfast favorite when you can enjoy them both? Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites combine the gooey, sweet goodness of cinnamon rolls with the golden, custardy delight of French toast. These bite-sized treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a fun dessert. They’re quick to make, customizable, and packed with irresistible flavor—making them a sure hit for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are an irresistible twist on two breakfast classics. The soft, gooey cinnamon rolls are transformed into crispy French toast bites, coated in cinnamon sugar, and served with a creamy dip. They’re quick, fun to make, and totally customizable with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering or enjoying them as a weekend treat, these bites will be the star of the show!
Ingredients
To make these delicious bites, you’ll need:
- 1 can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the sugar coating)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese icing (from the cinnamon roll can)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
- If using store-bought cinnamon rolls, bake them according to the package instructions. Let them cool slightly, then cut each roll into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the French Toast Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to create your French toast batter.
Step 3: Coat the Cinnamon Roll Bites
- Dip each cinnamon roll piece into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated but not soggy. Be gentle so they hold their shape.
Step 4: Cook the Bites
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter. Place the coated cinnamon roll pieces in the pan and cook until golden brown on all sides, flipping as needed. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Once cooked, remove the bites from the skillet and place them on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (mix white sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish), and bake for 10 minutes at 375°F to finish cooking through.
- Warm the cream cheese icing in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make it dippable. Drizzle over the bites or serve on the side for dipping.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use Day-Old Cinnamon Rolls: For firmer bites that hold their shape better, use day-old cinnamon rolls. Fresh rolls tend to be a bit softer and may not hold up as well when dipped in the batter.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: For even browning, cook the bites in batches, giving them enough space to crisp up on all sides.
- Spiced Up Batter: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the egg mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Bread Options: Swap out cinnamon rolls for brioche, challah, or any sweet bread for a fun twist on this recipe.
- Add Crunch: Top the finished bites with chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a bit of crunch.
- Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk to make the recipe dairy-free without compromising flavor.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These cinnamon roll French toast bites are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with some tasty sides. Fresh berries, crispy bacon, or scrambled eggs make perfect companions. For an extra cozy touch, pair them with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai, or hot chocolate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Leftovers: Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them on a skillet over low heat to keep them crispy, or place them in the oven at 350°F. Avoid microwaving, as they may become soggy.
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cinnamon rolls and prepare the egg mixture the night before. Assemble and cook just before serving for the best results.
2. Can I freeze these bites?
While freezing is possible, the texture may change when reheated. These are best enjoyed fresh.
3. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will add a special touch to this dish. Just be sure to bake them and let them cool before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
4. What’s the best way to keep these warm for serving?
To keep the bites warm without drying them out, place them in a warm oven (200°F) while you finish cooking the rest.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the perfect combination of two beloved breakfast dishes, made even better in bite-sized form! They’re fun to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a lazy weekend breakfast or a festive brunch, these treats will add a touch of sweetness to your day.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 5 servings
Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
Method: Baking, Pan-frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian