Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites hero shot

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: A Sweet Morning Twist

The Memory Behind This Treat

The first time I stumbled upon the idea of Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites was during a lazy weekend morning when my niece decided a plain bowl of cereal just wouldn’t do. I can still picture her tiny face, peering over the kitchen counter, eyes wide with curiosity and a hint of mischief. We had a can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls in the fridge—one of those handy staples that makes life a bit easier. With some quick thinking, I decided to transform them into something magical. A few eggs, some milk, and a touch of vanilla later, we were on our way to creating a breakfast masterpiece.

The kitchen was soon filled with the comforting scent of cinnamon and vanilla, mingling beautifully as the bites sizzled in the skillet. My niece giggled as she helped me drizzle the icing over the golden bites, her fingers sticky but her smile wide. These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites became more than just a breakfast; they were a cherished memory in the making, a delicious way to blend tradition with a twist.

Over the years, this dish has become a family favorite, especially for those cozy Sunday brunches or when you want to spoil someone special. Whether you’re making them for a crowd or just a quiet morning treat, they always bring a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table. If you loved these, you might also enjoy exploring my Cinnamon Swirl Pancakes, another delightful morning indulgence that pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee.

How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)

Making Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites is as easy as pie—or should I say cinnamon roll? You’ll be transforming those sweet rolls into breakfast magic in no time. Start by grabbing a can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. These little gems have all the heartwarming flavors you need. Set the icing aside for later; we’ll revisit that decadent goodness soon. Cut each roll into bite-sized pieces. Think of them as delightful little nuggets that will soak up all the eggy goodness.

Step-by-step preparation of Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, showing hands in action.

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together two large eggs, a quarter cup of milk, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, and half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture is the key to transforming those cinnamon rolls into French toast bites. You want a smooth, cohesive mix, so whisk until your wrist feels the burn—or until it’s all combined! Now, take each cinnamon roll bite and let it take a dip in the eggy bath, ensuring every side is thoroughly coated.

Next, heat a couple of tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s sizzling, add your coated bites in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; they like their personal space to get that perfect golden brown. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes. Watch them transform into beautifully browned bites of joy. Once they’re done, plate them up and drizzle with that reserved icing or a splash of maple syrup. A sprinkle of powdered sugar is optional, but oh, so delightful! Enjoy the sweet morning twist you’ve just created.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Preparing these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites ahead of time is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely morning without the hustle. If you’re planning for a busy brunch or simply want to get a head start, you can whisk up the egg mixture the night before. Store it in the fridge, covered, so it’s ready to dip the cinnamon roll pieces in the morning.

Once cooked, these bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the bites in a skillet over low heat or pop them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This helps maintain their delightful texture without drying them out. If you’re a fan of meal prep, you might even consider freezing them. Lay the bites on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag.

To reheat from frozen, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent over-browning. Add a fresh drizzle of icing or maple syrup after reheating to bring back that just-made magic. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh or from the freezer, these bites promise a sweet start to any morning. For more make-ahead breakfast ideas, explore our collection of cozy morning treats!

Also Read: Protein Twix Bars: A Healthy Take on Your Favorite Candy

Best Ingredients & Party Variations

When crafting the perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, the ingredients you choose can elevate this simple dish into something truly spectacular. Start with the refrigerated cinnamon rolls. They offer a convenient and consistent base, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try using a premade bakery version or even homemade rolls for a richer, homemade flavor. The eggs and milk create the custardy coating, so consider using farm-fresh eggs and whole milk for a creamier texture. For an extra burst of flavor, opt for pure vanilla extract and freshly ground cinnamon—these small upgrades make a noticeable difference.

Now, let’s talk about variations to keep things exciting at your breakfast table or brunch party. Want to add a fruity twist? Incorporate chopped apples or berries into the egg mixture before dipping the cinnamon roll bites. For a nutty crunch, sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts over the finished bites. Hosting a holiday brunch? Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to introduce warm, festive notes. If you’re serving a crowd, prepare multiple batches and keep them warm in the oven. This way, your guests can enjoy piping hot bites straight from the skillet.

Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a celebratory brunch, these variations make your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites an adaptable dish that’s sure to impress. Remember, the joy is in experimenting, so feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your taste or the occasion.

Serving the finished Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, elegantly plated.

FAQ’s About Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Why might Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites be considered an indulgent breakfast option?

While delicious, these bites can be high in calories and sugar, especially when topped with syrup or icing. They combine the sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the richness of French toast’s egg and butter. To lighten things up slightly, consider using almond milk and plant-based butter. Remember, these bites are perfect for a special occasion breakfast or brunch treat, adding a touch of indulgence to your morning.

How do you ensure the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites have the perfect texture?

Start by cutting the cinnamon rolls into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Dip each piece quickly in the egg mixture to prevent it from soaking up too much liquid and becoming mushy. Cook over medium heat, allowing each side to achieve a lovely golden crust. Lastly, using a non-stick skillet and a little butter ensures a smooth cooking process and prevents sticking.

How do Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites differ from traditional French toast sticks?

The key difference lies in the base ingredient. Traditional French toast sticks use slices of bread, while these bites use pre-made cinnamon rolls. This gives them a unique cinnamon-infused flavor and a gooey center that’s not found in regular French toast. Additionally, the bite-sized nature makes them perfect for dipping in icing or syrup, offering a fun twist for breakfast enthusiasts.

What is the most common mistake when making Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?

A frequent misstep is overcrowding the skillet. To achieve that perfect golden brown texture, give each bite some breathing room. If the pan is too crowded, the bites may steam instead of fry, leading to a soggy exterior. Cook them in batches if necessary, keeping cooked bites warm in a low oven. Also, ensure the egg mixture is well combined—this helps coat each piece evenly for consistent flavor.

Conclusion

There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about whipping up a batch of Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday brunch or a way to sweeten up a weekday morning, this recipe is a delightful way to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to the table. The smell of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is like an embrace, turning any gathering into a memorable moment.

These bites are more than just a treat; they’re a chance to create connections. Picture everyone around the table, reaching for those golden, pillowy morsels, sharing stories, and laughter. It’s these simple, sweet moments that make cooking so special.

So, why not give this recipe a try? Let it bring a smile to your face and joy to those you love. For more delicious recipes and cozy kitchen inspiration, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest!

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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: A Sweet Morning Twist


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  • Author: Abby Martin
  • Total Time: 20
  • Yield: 1 batch 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a delightful twist on your traditional breakfast favorites! This easy-to-make recipe combines the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls with the fluffy texture of French toast.


Ingredients

Scale

1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (with icing)

2 large eggs

1/4 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons butter

Powdered sugar (optional, for serving)

Maple syrup or icing from the cinnamon rolls (optional, for serving)


Instructions

1. Open the can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside for later. Cut each roll into bite-sized pieces, about four pieces per roll.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla bean paste, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

3. Dip each cinnamon roll bite into the egg mixture, ensuring every side is coated.

4. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the coated cinnamon roll bites in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

5. Remove the bites from the skillet and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle with the reserved icing from the cinnamon rolls or maple syrup, and sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute almond milk and plant-based butter.

Keep cooked bites warm in the oven at low heat if preparing in batches.

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 10
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 20 g
  • Sodium: 480 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

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