There is something irresistibly delightful about These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites that makes them a perfect treat for any brunch or cozy breakfast at home. Imagine soft, cinnamon-spiced dough transform into golden, crispy little bites that are soaked in a rich vanilla-egg custard, then finished with drizzles of melting icing and optional maple syrup. These bites combine the best of cinnamon rolls and French toast effortlessly, making every mouthful a warm, comforting bite of pure joy. Whether you’re serving them to family or surprising guests, These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites promise to become your new favorite breakfast indulgence.

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential for creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. Each component adds its own magic—from the fluffy cinnamon roll dough to the velvety custard and the warming spices.

Cinnamon roll dough: Use refrigerated dough for convenience and that classic sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor.
Eggs: They bind the custard and give it richness and structure.
Whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth custard.
Vanilla extract: Brings a fragrant sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Ground cinnamon: Enhances the signature spice that makes the bites irresistible.
Unsalted butter: For cooking, providing a golden crust and a hint of buttery goodness.
Maple syrup (optional): A luscious drizzle that adds extra sweetness and depth.
Icing from the cinnamon roll package: The finishing touch that melts over warm bites and adds that classic glaze.

How to Make These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Step 1: Prepare the dough and custard

Begin by cutting your refrigerated cinnamon roll dough into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and fit perfectly on a fork. Keep the icing packet from the package close by—it’s the sweet, glossy finish that will make these bites truly special. Then, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a bowl until you have a smooth custard mixture that smells amazing.

Step 2: Dip the cinnamon roll pieces

Carefully dip each dough piece into the custard mixture, turning to coat all sides thoroughly. This step ensures every bite is infused with rich flavor and moisture, which will create that melt-in-your-mouth texture after cooking.

Step 3: Cook to golden perfection

Heat unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place the custard-coated dough pieces in a single layer, making sure they have space to crisp up without steaming. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning gently until all sides are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. The aroma at this stage is absolute heaven!

Step 4: Add icing and serve

Once the bites are warm and crispy, drizzle the reserved icing over the top while they’re still hot so it melts perfectly into every crevice. Serve immediately with maple syrup if you like an extra boost of sweetness or want to add a touch of classic breakfast flair.

How to Serve These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Garnishes

Adding a touch of fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries can provide a vibrant color contrast and a fresh burst of flavor that balances the sweetness. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dusting of cinnamon can also amp up the presentation and appeal.

Side Dishes

These bites pair wonderfully with crispy bacon or sausage for a savory balance, or a dollop of Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a creamy, tangy counterpart. A small bowl of fresh fruit salad on the side can also lighten the meal while keeping things bright and inviting.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites on skewers for a fun, shareable presentation at brunch parties. You can also serve them in a decorative bowl surrounded by fresh mint leaves or alongside mini ramekins of assorted syrups and toppings to create a customizable breakfast experience everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This keeps the bites moist and flavorful, though they’re always best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispness and gooey texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, place cooked bites on a baking sheet to freeze individually for a few hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to one month, perfect for a quick breakfast fix anytime.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve their crisp texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough for These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works beautifully and lets you control the sweetness and spices. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces and proceed with the recipe as usual.

Is it necessary to use whole milk?

Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but you can use 2% or a milk alternative like almond or oat milk if preferred. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I make these bites dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the milk with a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free butter substitute for cooking. Just be mindful that the icing from the cinnamon roll package may contain dairy, so consider making your own glaze if needed.

What is the best skillet to use?

A nonstick skillet is ideal for this recipe to ensure the bites don’t stick and cook evenly to a golden crust. Cast iron also works well but may require a bit more butter to prevent sticking.

Can These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites be made ahead for a party?

Definitely! You can prepare and cook them ahead, then keep them warm in a low oven until ready to serve, or reheat gently just before guests arrive to enjoy fresh, gooey bites.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, they will become your go-to comfort breakfast and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their simplicity combined with that luscious cinnamon-sugar magic makes mornings feel extra special. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to delight yourself and your loved ones with these sweet, crispy, melt-in-your-mouth bites that turn any morning into a celebration.

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Delight in these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, a perfect blend of soft cinnamon rolls fried to a golden brown with a rich egg mixture, topped with sweet icing and optional maple syrup. Ideal for a fun breakfast or brunch treat that combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls and classic French toast in bite-sized form.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough

1 can (12 oz) refrigerated cinnamon roll dough, cut into bite-sized pieces

Egg Mixture

2 large eggs
⅓ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Cooking

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Serving

2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
Icing from cinnamon roll package

Instructions

Prepare dough: Cut the refrigerated cinnamon roll dough into bite-sized pieces and set aside the icing from the package for later use.
Mix egg batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Coat dough: Dip each cinnamon roll piece into the egg mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated on all sides to absorb the flavors.
Heat skillet: Melt the unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the bites without sticking.
Cook bites: Place the coated cinnamon roll pieces in a single layer in the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning carefully until all sides are golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Drizzle the reserved icing over the warm French toast bites and serve immediately with maple syrup on the side for extra sweetness if desired.

Notes

Use refrigerated cinnamon roll dough for convenience and guaranteed flavor.
Whole milk can be substituted with any milk of choice for a lighter option.
Cook on medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring the inside is cooked through.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
Maple syrup is optional but adds a nice complementary sweetness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: American