Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites

Isabella Rames 0 Comments
Total Time: 30 mins Difficulty: Beginner
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Little bites of cinnamon roll French toast that are crispy on the outside, gooey inside, and perfect for brunch or dessert
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I’ve always believed that breakfast should feel like a celebration, and these Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites are exactly that—a joyous little party in every morsel. Taking the classic cinnamon roll you know and love, dipping it in a sweet custard, and crisping it to golden perfection brings a playful twist to your morning routine. With just a handful of pantry staples and refrigerated cinnamon rolls, you can whip up these bite-sized delights in about 30 minutes total. I’m talking about a beginner-friendly recipe with only a few steps, yet the outcome looks and tastes like something you’d order at your favorite brunch spot. At 440 calories per serving, it’s a comforting indulgence that feels totally worth it, whether you’re treating yourself on a lazy weekend or impressing friends at a holiday brunch.

Each little piece delivers that dreamy combination of textures: a crisp exterior, a gooey center patterned with cinnamon swirls, and a drizzle of sweet icing that melts into every nook. You’ll hear that satisfying crunch when you bite in, followed by a warm flood of buttery custard and cinnamon sugar. Honestly, the first time I made these, my kids hovered around the skillet, eyes wide, eager to snag the hottest piece. And trust me, it became our new tradition—gathering around, flipping bites one by one, and customizing our own dipping options. Whether you serve these as an appetizer, a sweet breakfast treat, or even a whimsical dessert, they come together so quickly that you’ll wonder why you never made bite-sized French toast before. These little treasures are perfect for filling brunch tables, cozy family breakfasts, or snack plates that disappear fast.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN CINNAMON ROLL FRENCH TOAST BITES

Before we dive into the fun of cooking, let’s explore the magic makers behind these savory-sweet morsels. Each ingredient plays a unique role in balancing flavors, textures, and that delightful aroma that makes everyone exclaim, “Yum!” as soon as they walk by the kitchen.

  • Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing

These pre-made spirals provide the foundation: sweet dough, swirled cinnamon, and a handy packet of icing. They save you time and ensure each bite has that signature gooey center and sugary topping.

  • Eggs

Acting as the custard base, eggs help bind and coat the cinnamon roll pieces, creating a rich and slightly savory contrast to the sweetness once they hit the hot skillet.

  • Milk

This liquid softens and thins the egg custard, ensuring each bite is soaked through just enough to become tender on the inside without turning mushy.

  • Vanilla extract

A splash of vanilla brightens the custard with floral, sweet notes, elevating the simple egg-and-milk mixture into something that tastes dessert-worthy.

  • Ground cinnamon

Doubling down on the warm spice already in the rolls, extra cinnamon enhances that cozy, comforting flavor we all adore each morning.

  • Butter

Used for frying, butter delivers a golden, crispy crust and imparts a rich, savory edge that contrasts beautifully with the sweet interior.

  • Powdered sugar (optional)

A light dusting of snow-like sweetness for presentation and an extra taste of confectioner’s sugar in every bite.

  • Maple syrup (optional)

Perfect for dunking, pure maple syrup adds depth and a familiar breakfast sweetness that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.

HOW TO MAKE CINNAMON ROLL FRENCH TOAST BITES

Get ready for a hands-on, quick, and totally delightful cooking session. These steps will guide you from opening the can to plating those golden-brown bites that are sure to disappear in a flash!

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat until it’s evenly warm and ready to give you that perfect golden crust.

2. Open the can of cinnamon rolls and gently separate each spiral. Cut every roll into quarters to create uniform, bite-sized pieces that cook evenly.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This custard will coat each piece in flavor.

4. Melt the butter in the skillet, using a spatula to spread it around so the entire surface is slick and buttery.

5. Dip each cinnamon roll piece into the egg mixture, ensuring every side is coated in the custard—this makes for a soft, tender interior.

6. Place the custard-coated bites into the skillet in a single layer, cooking in batches. Let them sizzle undisturbed for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy at the edges.

7. Transfer the cooked bites to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, keeping them crisp.

8. Drizzle the provided icing from the cinnamon roll package over the warm bites or serve it on the side as a decadent dipping sauce.

9. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and offer maple syrup for extra sweetness—this final flourish makes them feel even more indulgent!

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CINNAMON ROLL FRENCH TOAST BITES

Once these little treasures are ready, you’ll want to showcase them in all their glory. Here are some creative ways to serve and enjoy them, turning your kitchen into a cozy brunch haven.

  • Brunch Platter: Arrange the bites on a large charcuterie board, filling gaps with fresh berries, sliced bananas, and sprigs of mint. The vibrant colors set off the golden bites perfectly.
  • Duo-Dipping Station: Offer bowls of cream cheese-frosting and warm maple syrup side by side. Guests can alternate dips for sweet-and-tangy or classic maple pairings.
  • Warm Dessert Cups: Spoon the bites into individual ramekins, drizzle icing, and top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an elegant after-dinner treat.
  • Coffee Pairing: Serve alongside freshly brewed espresso or latte; the robust coffee notes balance the sweetness beautifully, making every bite feel like a café indulgence.

HOW TO STORE CINNAMON ROLL FRENCH TOAST BITES

If you somehow have leftovers (or want to prep ahead), proper storage will help maintain that signature crisp outside and gooey inside for another round of enjoyment.

  • Room Temperature (Short-Term): Place cooled bites in an airtight container with parchment paper layers. Store at room temperature for up to 4 hours—ideal if you’re entertaining and want to make a quick refill.
  • Refrigerator: For storage up to 2 days, layer the bites in a container lined with paper towels to wick away moisture. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to bring back the crispiness.
  • Freezer: Flash-freeze on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Store up to 1 month. Reheat straight from frozen in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes.
  • Reheating Tips: Avoid using the microwave if you can—it makes the bites soggy. Instead, warm them in a preheated oven or air fryer for that fresh-off-the-griddle crunch.

CONCLUSION

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites strike the perfect balance between comforting breakfast flavors and playful, bite-sized fun. From beginner-friendly prep to the satisfying crunch of a golden crust giving way to a warm, cinnamon-swirl center, every moment of this recipe feels like a small celebration. Whether you’re gathering loved ones for a lazy weekend brunch or sneaking a sweet treat at midnight, these bites deliver a gourmet twist without the fuss. Remember, the total hands-on time is about 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, making them a speedy star for any occasion. Feel free to print and save this article so you can revisit it every time you crave something sweet, crispy, and utterly irresistible. A FAQ section below will answer your burning questions, so you’ll be fully prepared before you even open the skillet.

I can’t wait to hear how your Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites turn out! Drop a comment or question if you run into any hiccups, or share your favorite serving twist—maybe you loved them with a dollop of mascarpone or a drizzle of salted caramel? Your feedback is what makes this community so special. Happy cooking, friends!

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Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites

Author: Isabella Rames
Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins
Calories: 440

Description

Crispy outside meets gooey cinnamon roll center in every bite of these French toast treats, dipped in sweet custard, golden brown and drizzled with icing or syrup

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
  2. Open the can of cinnamon rolls and separate them. Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters to form bite-sized pieces.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
  4. Melt the butter in the skillet, spreading it evenly to coat the surface.
  5. Dip each cinnamon roll piece into the egg mixture, making sure it is well-coated on all sides.
  6. Place the dipped pieces into the skillet, cooking in batches. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove the French toast bites from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  8. Drizzle the icing from the cinnamon roll package over the bites or serve it as a dipping sauce on the side.
  9. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Note

  • You can use store-bought cinnamon rolls or make homemade ones for a more indulgent treat.
  • For an extra touch of flavor, add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture.
  • These cinnamon roll bites are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a fun dessert!
  • To make them even more decadent, try adding a few chocolate chips to the cinnamon roll pieces before dipping them in the egg mixture.
Keywords: cinnamon roll french toast bites, bite-sized cinnamon treats, easy brunch recipe, sweet breakfast bites, cinnamon dessert, quick breakfast snack
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Frequently Asked Questions

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How long does it take to prepare and cook Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?

It takes about 10 minutes to prep by cutting the cinnamon rolls and whisking the egg mixture, plus 10–12 minutes to cook the bites in batches. Overall, you can expect around 20–22 minutes from start to finish.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls instead of store-bought refrigerated ones?

Yes, you can substitute homemade cinnamon rolls. Simply prepare, rise, and bake your rolls according to your recipe, then let them cool slightly before cutting into quarters and following the dipping and cooking steps as directed.

How should I store leftover French toast bites, and how do I reheat them?

Store cooled bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or until warm and slightly crisp. You can also microwave a few at a time for about 20–30 seconds, though they may lose some crispiness.

Is it possible to freeze these bites for later use?

Absolutely. After cooking and fully cooling, arrange the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1–2 hours). Transfer frozen bites to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to one month. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or until heated through.

What variations can I try to customize the flavor?

You can add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to the egg mixture for extra warmth. Stir mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into each cinnamon roll piece before dipping. For a fruit twist, drizzle with warm berry compote instead of maple syrup.

My bites are turning out soggy—what can I do?

Make sure your skillet is fully heated over medium before cooking and that the butter has melted and begun to bubble. Dip each piece briefly—just enough to coat without saturating. Cook in a single layer without overcrowding, and allow each side to develop a golden crust before flipping.

What’s the best way to serve these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?

Serve them warm immediately after cooking. Drizzle the included icing over the top or offer it on the side as a dip. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and provide maple syrup or fruit preserves for dipping. They’re perfect for a sweet breakfast, brunch buffet, or festive dessert platter.

Isabella Roberts

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hey my name is Isabella, I’m so glad you’re here. As a culinary enthusiast and mother, I love sharing quick, healthy, and family-friendly recipes. My cookbook and blog blend tradition with innovation, inspiring delicious moments in the kitchen. Join me on this flavorful journey!

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