If you’re looking to bring the best of brunch into a single, unforgettable bite, you simply have to experience Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups. This recipe turns humble sandwich bread into pockets of swirled cinnamon sugar bliss, then coats them in custard and sizzles them golden in a pan—combining the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls and French toast in one irresistible treat. Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a celebratory snack, these bite-sized roll-ups deliver the magic of a bakery-style pastry with the ease of a skillet recipe you can whip up in minutes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just a handful of kitchen basics that each play a starring role. These are the building blocks that give Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups their creamy inside, cinnamon sugar swirls, and toasty exterior.
- Bread: Soft, regular sandwich bread works perfect here—its flexibility allows for easy rolling and soaking up the custard.
- Cream Cheese: Room temperature is best, so it spreads easily and melts into gooey goodness inside each roll-up.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the cream cheese filling for that classic “frosted” flavor.
- Cinnamon: The star spice in our swirl, bringing depth and warmth with every bite.
- Granulated Sugar: Combines with cinnamon for the essential cinnamon-sugar mix that makes each roll-up taste like a cinnamon bun.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and turn the outer layer into true French toast—rich and golden.
- Milk: Whisks with eggs to make the custard light and fluffy; whole milk brings extra creaminess.
- Butter: For pan-frying—ensure a crispy, golden exterior while adding delicious buttery flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Just a splash enhances the custard and ties together all the sweet, bakery-style notes.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Start by beating the cream cheese with powdered sugar until completely smooth and lump-free. This mixture forms your sweet, tangy “frosting” swirl for the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups. Set it aside so it’s ready for rolling—it should be easily spreadable, not stiff.
Step 2: Flatten the Bread
Take each slice of sandwich bread and gently roll it out with a rolling pin. Flat bread is much easier to roll around the filling and keeps your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups nice and compact. If you don’t have a rolling pin, a sturdy drinking glass will do the trick!
Step 3: Add the Filling and Cinnamon Sugar
Spread a thin but generous layer of the cream cheese filling onto each slice of bread. Sprinkle a heaping spoonful of cinnamon sugar evenly on top—be generous here, this is where you get all the flavor of a cinnamon roll packed into every bite.
Step 4: Roll Them Up
Tightly roll up each slice, pressing gently to seal. The tighter you roll, the more beautiful your spiral will be—and the less likely the filling will escape while cooking. Set the rolled-up pieces aside with the seam side down.
Step 5: Dip in Custard
In a shallow dish, whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla extract together. Dip each roll-up into the mixture, turning until fully coated. Don’t let them sit too long or they’ll get soggy; a quick dunk does the job.
Step 6: Cook to Golden Perfection
Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the soaked roll-ups seam side down and cook, turning often, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if needed—and enjoy the incredible aroma that fills your kitchen!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
Garnishes
For a bakery-fresh finish, dust your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups with a little extra powdered sugar, drizzle them with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze, or top with fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor. Even a tiny sprinkle of extra cinnamon makes them look irresistible.
Side Dishes
These roll-ups shine alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt, fruit salad, or a simple side of crispy bacon or sausage. The contrast of creamy, tart, or salty sides brings out the sweetness and richness of the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups, making your breakfast or brunch feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups stacked in a tower, lined up on a platter for a brunch buffet, or even as finger food with toothpicks and a bowl of dip. For parties, cut them into bite-sized pieces and let guests dunk them in chocolate or extra cream cheese glaze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra roll-ups, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating brings back their freshly-made texture, so don’t worry if you can’t finish the whole batch right away!
Freezing
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups freeze beautifully! Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep well for up to two months—perfect for unexpected cravings or quick breakfasts.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the roll-ups in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until hot and crisp. The microwave also works, but the texture will be a little softer. Either way, they’re just as dreamy as the day you made them!
FAQs
Can I make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap regular cream cheese for a plant-based alternative and use your favorite non-dairy milk. They’ll still be delicious, and everyone at the table can enjoy them.
What type of bread should I use for this recipe?
Soft, white sandwich bread is easiest to roll up, but you can use whole wheat or even brioche for an extra indulgent treat. Avoid bread that’s super crusty—it’s harder to flatten and roll.
Can I assemble Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups the night before?
You can prep the roll-ups and store them tightly wrapped in the fridge (before dipping in custard) overnight. In the morning, just dip them and cook—perfect for busy weekends or feeding a brunch crowd.
What’s the best way to serve these for a party?
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are naturally party-friendly! Cut them in half, stack them on a platter, and serve with little cups of glaze or chocolate for dipping. Kids and adults alike love them as sweet finger food.
Can I bake these instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Arrange the dipped roll-ups on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes, turning once for even browning. They won’t be quite as crispy as pan-fried but are just as tasty (and a little lighter).
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to surprise someone—or just indulge your inner brunch lover—Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are a dream come true. Every bite is filled with gooey cinnamon sugar and wrapped in a toasty hug, making any morning feel special. Go ahead and give them a try; your kitchen just might become everyone’s new favorite breakfast spot!
PrintCinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 roll‑ups (serves 4)
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch
- Method: Pan‑fry
- Cuisine: American
Description
A deliciously fun mash‑up of cinnamon roll and French toast—soft bread rolled around cream‑cheese cinnamon‑sugar filling, dipped in custard, and pan‑fried to golden perfection.
Ingredients
8 slices sandwich bread (white or brioche),4 oz cream cheese, softened,2 tbsp powdered sugar,1 tsp ground cinnamon,3 tbsp granulated sugar,2 eggs,1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%),1 tsp vanilla extract,2 tbsp butter (for pan),Optional: fresh berries, maple syrup, extra powdered sugar
Instructions
Step 1 – Make cream cheese filling: Beat together softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.,Step 2 – Flatten bread: Trim crusts (optional) and flatten each slice with a rolling pin until pliable.,Step 3 – Assemble roll‑ups: Spread a thin layer of cream‑cheese filling on each slice; sprinkle with cinnamon sugar (1 tsp cinnamon + 3 tbsp granulated sugar); roll tightly and place seam‑side down.,Step 4 – Prepare custard: Whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla in a shallow dish.,Step 5 – Pan‑fry: Melt butter over medium heat. Quickly dip each roll‑up in custard, then place in skillet. Cook, turning frequently, until all sides are golden and crisp (about 2–3 min per side).,Step 6 – Serve: Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with berries or drizzle with maple syrup.
Notes
Work in batches to avoid crowding the pan.,For a lighter bake version, assemble and dip, then bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway.,Preassemble roll‑ups ahead and refrigerate before custard dipping if prepping.,To make dairy‑free, use vegan cream cheese and non‑dairy milk.
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