If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels downright magical but takes less than a half hour to make, allow me to introduce you to Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups. These little wonders combine the nostalgic swirl of a classic cinnamon roll with the golden, custardy warmth of French toast—each bite is creamy in the center, crackling with cinnamon sugar on the outside, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, impressing weekend guests, or simply treating yourself on a cozy morning, this recipe is bound to become your go-to for breakfast brilliance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love about this recipe is how it transforms basic kitchen staples into something extraordinary—you probably have everything you need already! Each ingredient is carefully chosen to create that sweet, velvety filling, fluffy texture, and that hallmark cinnamon sparkle that makes Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups so special.
- Soft white bread (8 slices, crusts removed): Choose the fluffiest bread you can find—removing the crusts ensures the roll-ups are tender and easy to shape.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Letting your cream cheese soften makes it easy to mix and spread for a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth center.
- Powdered sugar (1/4 cup): This adds a smooth, not-too-sweet finish to the cream cheese without any graininess.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Pure vanilla deepens the flavor and gives the filling that unmistakable bakery aroma.
- Cinnamon sugar (1/2 cup granulated sugar + 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon): This blend provides the signature flavor and that crackly, caramelized crust we crave.
- Large eggs (2): Eggs add richness and help the roll-ups hold their perfectly-cooked shape.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Mixing milk with eggs yields a custard-like soak for plush French toast texture.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, for cooking): Melting butter in the pan ensures each roll-up gets beautifully golden and crisp.
- Maple syrup or icing (for serving, optional): Add a drizzle for that final touch of indulgence.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
Step 1: Make the Sweet Cream Cheese Filling
In a small mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. This becomes the luscious core of each Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Up, so don’t rush—ensure every bit is creamy and ready for spreading.
Step 2: Prepare and Flatten the Bread
Lay each slice of soft, crustless bread on a clean surface and gently flatten with a rolling pin. You’re after a thin, pliable slice that won’t crack when rolled—think thin enough to bend, but sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Step 3: Spread and Roll
Spread a generous tablespoon of the sweet cream cheese mixture evenly over each slice of bread. Starting at one end, tightly roll up the bread so the filling stays put in the center. Repeat until all slices are filled and rolled—this is where they start looking like mini cinnamon rolls!
Step 4: Dip in Custard
In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs and milk to make a custard base. Carefully dip each roll-up, making sure to coat all sides without soaking them through. This step ensures that each Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Up turns out golden and custardy when cooked.
Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Gently roll each dipped bread log through the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing lightly so it sticks all around. This is the magic moment when your kitchen starts to smell like a bakery, and each roll-up gets its sparkling cinnamon “crust.”
Step 6: Cook Until Golden Brown
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt a bit of butter to coat the surface. Working in batches, cook your roll-ups, turning occasionally until they’re evenly browned on all sides—about 5 to 6 minutes total. The outside becomes crisp and caramelized while the inside stays gooey and sweet.
Step 7: Serve Warm—and Enjoy!
Once all the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are finished, pile them onto a plate. Serve immediately with a drizzle of maple syrup or that classic icing for an extra dose of decadence. Get ready—it’s time for bite-sized breakfast bliss!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
Garnishes
These roll-ups are absolutely divine with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dribble of simple glaze (just mix powdered sugar and a splash of milk). For a touch of color and freshness, try scattering a few fresh berries on top, or add a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch and contrast.
Side Dishes
For a full breakfast spread, pair your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups with crisp bacon, scrambled eggs, or a simple fruit salad. The sweet and creamy roll-ups balance beautifully with savory sides, making any morning feel like a celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the roll-ups “family style” in a big platter for weekend brunch, or nestle them upright in small cups for a buffet or party setting. You can even skewer them on sticks for a fun, kid-friendly treat—just add little bowls of maple syrup and icing for dunking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to two days and reheat beautifully—making busy weekday breakfasts extra special.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooled roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to a month, ready to be reheated at a moment’s notice.
Reheating
For the crispiest results, reheat roll-ups in a 350°F (175°C) oven or toaster oven for about 8 minutes, until piping hot. If you’re in a rush, a short burst in the microwave works too (just note the outside will be softer). Serve immediately with your favorite topping.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat or another type Breakfast
Absolutely! While soft white bread gives you that classic, dessert-like roll-up, whole wheat or even brioche work just as well—just be sure whatever bread you use is soft enough to roll without cracking.
Do Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups work for meal prep?
Yes, they’re excellent for meal prep. You can assemble the roll-ups (without dipping in egg mixture), store overnight in the fridge, and just finish coating and cooking in the morning. Super handy for busy schedules!
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, mascarpone or ricotta can step in—just know the flavor and texture will change a bit. Add a touch of extra vanilla or even some citrus zest for extra zing.
Can I add extra fillings to the roll-ups?
Definitely! Mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a smear of fruit preserves all work beautifully. Just keep the fillings light so the roll-ups stay easy to roll and cook evenly.
How do I keep the roll-ups from unrolling while cooking?
Rolling tightly and starting with properly flattened bread helps, but if you’re still having trouble, simply place the seam side down in the skillet first and give it a head start to “seal” the roll-up.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are that rare breakfast that feels both totally indulgent and surprisingly easy to make. Trust me—make them once, and you’ll find yourself craving these swirly, creamy treats all the time. Give them a try and watch your breakfast routine get a whole lot sweeter!
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a delightful breakfast treat with these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups. Soft bread filled with sweet cream cheese, rolled up, dipped in egg, and coated in cinnamon sugar, then cooked until golden brown. Perfect for a special morning treat!
Ingredients
Bread:
- 8 slices soft white bread (crusts removed)
Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Egg Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Additional:
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- Optional: maple syrup or icing for serving
Instructions
- Cream Cheese Filling: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Prepare Bread: Flatten bread slices and spread cream cheese mixture on each. Roll up tightly.
- Egg Dip: Whisk eggs and milk in a bowl. Dip each roll-up in the mixture.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll dipped bread in cinnamon sugar until coated.
- Cook: Melt butter in a skillet. Cook roll-ups until golden brown, turning occasionally.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with maple syrup or icing.
Notes
- You can prepare the roll-ups ahead and refrigerate overnight before cooking.
- Try flavored cream cheese or add mini chocolate chips for variations.
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