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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the perfect solution when you crave both cinnamon rolls and French toast but do not want to choose. You get the gooey center of a cinnamon roll surrounded by a tender, custardy coating, all cooked up in less than half an hour. These are every bit as special as weekend brunch at your favorite café, but easy enough for busy mornings.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls: make this fast and bring sweet cinnamon flavor choose the brand with the best icing if you can
- Large eggs: create a rich custard to coat each bite choose eggs with bright yolks for extra richness
- Milk: thins the custard so it soaks in without getting heavy whole milk gives a richer result but any works
- Vanilla extract: brings out the bakery flavors use real vanilla for the best flavor
- Ground cinnamon: bumps up the coziness try freshly ground if you love a strong cinnamon note
- Butter: adds richness and helps with browning use unsalted for more control
- Powdered sugar: turns these from pantry to patisserie-quality sift for the prettiest finish
- Maple syrup or icing: finishes things off go for real maple or use the icing from the cinnamon rolls
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the rolls:
- Open the can and remove the icing for later Cut each cinnamon roll into small pieces about the size of a big marble Try to keep them similar so they cook evenly
- Mix the custard:
- Whisk eggs milk vanilla and cinnamon in a medium bowl until smooth This will make sure every bite tastes like cinnamon toast
- Coat the pieces:
- Place a few cinnamon roll pieces at a time into the egg mixture Turn them gently so they soak up the custard but do not get soggy This step is key to that French toast flavor
- Cook the bites:
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat Once melted and sizzling add the custardy pieces in a single layer Let them cook for about two to three minutes per side until you see deep golden spots Flip them gently so they stay whole
- Finish and serve:
- Transfer bites to a serving plate Drizzle with icing from the cinnamon roll can or maple syrup Dust with powdered sugar if you like Serve warm for best flavor and texture
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Cinnamon is always a favorite in my kitchen It reminds me of cozy mornings with my sister when we tried to recreate bakery treats from scratch These bites take me right back
Storage Tips
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge They re best enjoyed fresh but you can reheat them in the microwave or a skillet to recapture that soft center and crisp edges If making ahead store the cooked bites and the icing separately and assemble just before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to make these dairy free almond milk and any plant butter work just as well For a fun twist use orange zest or swap the cinnamon in the custard for pumpkin pie spice You can use homemade cinnamon roll dough too but store bought keeps things easy
Serving Suggestions
Serve these at brunch as a crowd pleasing centerpiece Stack them in a bowl alongside fresh fruit and scrambled eggs for a full breakfast For a special dessert top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and extra drizzle of icing or syrup
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Yes, homemade cinnamon rolls work well; bake them first, then follow the same slicing and dipping steps.
- → How can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute almond milk for milk and use plant-based butter to keep the bites fully dairy-free.
- → What toppings go well with these bites?
Powdered sugar, reserved icing, or a drizzle of maple syrup enhance the sweetness and add flavor.
- → How do I prevent the bites from sticking?
Ensure your skillet is evenly coated with melted butter and avoid overcrowding the pan during cooking.
- → Can these be prepared in advance?
Cooked bites keep well in a low oven to stay warm until serving, but are best enjoyed fresh for peak texture.
- → What is the best bread substitute if I don’t have cinnamon rolls?
Brioche or challah cubes tossed with cinnamon and sugar can be used for a similar flavor and texture.