Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Cinnamon Roll French Toast with cream cheese glaze on a modern white table
A warm and gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast, topped with sweet glaze and ready to enjoy.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is the ultimate breakfast treat that blends the comfort of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls with the satisfying texture of classic French toast. Imagine biting into a golden, crispy exterior, only to reveal the soft, sweet layers of cinnamon and sugar inside. This recipe takes two of the most beloved breakfast dishes and combines them into one irresistible meal. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at brunch, spoil yourself with a weekend indulgence, or treat your family to something special, Cinnamon Roll French Toast is guaranteed to make any morning feel like a celebration.

Perfect for cozy weekends or festive occasions, this dish can be made in a flash and customized to suit your tastes. Top it with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or fresh berries to elevate the experience even further. It’s simple to prepare yet delivers a decadent flavor that will leave everyone craving more. Get ready to savor the best of both worlds in one bite!

Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Cinnamon Roll French Toast isn’t just a delicious treat; it comes with several benefits that make it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions. Here’s why you’ll want to add this recipe to your breakfast or brunch rotation:

A Perfect Blend of Two Favorites

This recipe combines the rich, sweet flavor of cinnamon rolls with the crispy, golden exterior of French toast. It’s the best of both worlds—comforting, warm cinnamon rolls with the satisfying crunch of French toast. For those who can’t decide between the two, this dish solves the dilemma!

Quick and Easy to Make

Despite its indulgent taste, Cinnamon Roll French Toast is surprisingly easy to prepare. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a stunning dish in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy mornings, last-minute brunches, or when you want to treat yourself without spending hours in the kitchen.

Customizable to Suit Your Preferences

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the toppings and fillings to suit your taste. Want a nutty twist? Add chopped pecans or almonds. Prefer a berry-filled version? Fresh strawberries or blueberries make the perfect addition. You can even swap the cinnamon rolls for a gluten-free variety or use dairy-free milk for a vegan version, making this dish suitable for various dietary needs.

Ideal for Special Occasions

Whether it’s a holiday breakfast, a special family gathering, or a brunch with friends, Cinnamon Roll French Toast adds a touch of elegance to any occasion. Its rich flavor and beautiful presentation make it the star of the meal, turning an ordinary morning into something extraordinary.

Comforting and Satisfying

This dish is the ultimate comfort food. The warm cinnamon rolls melt into the French toast, creating a rich, satisfying bite that’s sure to fill you up. It’s a perfect way to start the day, offering a cozy, indulgent experience that’s ideal for those chilly mornings or when you simply need a little extra sweetness in your life.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that come together to create this indulgent breakfast. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

ingredients for Cinnamon Roll French Toast on a black table.
Gather all the ingredients for this delicious Cinnamon Roll French Toast before getting started!

For the French Toast Base:

  • 4 cinnamon rolls: (store-bought or homemade, cut into quarters) The key to this recipe is using soft, fluffy cinnamon rolls. You can use frozen or pre-made rolls for convenience, or if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade cinnamon rolls will add an extra touch of warmth and flavor.
  • 2 large eggs: Eggs form the base of the French toast batter, giving it structure and richness. They help create the perfect balance between soft and crispy.
  • 1/2 cup milk: Milk adds creaminess to the batter. You can use any type of milk, including whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk, depending on your preference.
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the French toast, complementing the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and adding a lovely, aromatic touch.
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: A dash of ground cinnamon amplifies the spiciness already present in the cinnamon rolls and ties the flavors together, giving the French toast a warm, cozy aroma.
  • Pinch of salt: A small pinch of salt balances out the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls and enhances the overall flavor profile.

For Cooking:

  • 2 tbsp butter: Butter is used to fry the French toast, giving it a golden-brown, crispy texture while adding rich flavor. It’s essential for getting that perfect French toast crust.

For Toppings (Optional, but recommended):

  • Maple syrup: A generous drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and complements the cinnamon rolls perfectly.
  • Whipped cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an extra layer of decadence.
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries): Adding fresh berries gives the dish a fresh, slightly tangy contrast to the rich sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
  • Powdered sugar: A dusting of powdered sugar finishes off the dish with a delicate sweetness and beautiful presentation.

Optional Add-ins:

  • Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds): Chopped nuts add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, making the dish even more indulgent.
  • Cream cheese icing: If you’re craving an even sweeter experience, drizzle some cream cheese icing over the French toast for an extra indulgent touch.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this delicious Cinnamon Roll French Toast to life! Follow these simple steps to create a perfect, indulgent breakfast:

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

  • Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you’re using store-bought cinnamon rolls that need baking. If you’re using homemade cinnamon rolls, ensure they’re baked and cooled before starting this recipe.
  • Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. This will make it easier to soak them in the French toast batter and ensure that every piece gets coated evenly.

Step 2: Make the French Toast Batter

Eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon being whisked in a bowl on a black table.
Whisk together a rich French toast batter with eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.
  • In a large bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
  • Add the milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until smooth and well incorporated.
  • The batter should be slightly thick but still pourable. Adjust the milk to get the right consistency if needed.

Step 3: Coat the Cinnamon Roll Pieces

  • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter to coat the surface. Allow the butter to melt and foam up slightly before moving on to the next step.
  • Dip each cinnamon roll quarter into the prepared batter. Ensure that each piece is fully coated but not overly soaked, as this could cause the rolls to fall apart.
  • Carefully place the coated cinnamon roll pieces onto the hot skillet. Arrange them in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space between each piece to cook evenly.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

  • Let the cinnamon roll pieces cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until each piece is golden brown and crispy. The edges should become slightly caramelized, while the center remains soft and fluffy.
  • If needed, add more butter to the skillet between batches to keep the French toast from sticking and to ensure a golden crisp.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once all the cinnamon roll French toast pieces are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate. If you’re serving multiple people, feel free to stack the pieces for a more impressive presentation.
  • Top with your choice of maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness.

Optional Step: Add Extra Toppings

For an even more indulgent experience, consider drizzling some cream cheese icing over the top or sprinkling with chopped nuts for added texture. The possibilities are endless when it comes to personalizing this dish!

Easy Tips & Variations for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is already a showstopper, but with a few simple tweaks, you can elevate the dish even further or adapt it to suit different preferences. Here are some tips and variations to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Use Day-Old Cinnamon Rolls

If you have leftover cinnamon rolls from the day before, they’re perfect for this recipe! Day-old rolls absorb the batter more easily without becoming too soggy, resulting in a better texture when cooked.

Don’t Over-Soak

While it’s important to coat each piece of cinnamon roll in the batter, avoid letting the rolls sit too long in the mixture. If they soak for too long, they can fall apart or become mushy. A quick dip is all you need.

Cook on Medium Heat

It’s important to cook the cinnamon roll French toast on medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly without burning. If the heat is too high, the exterior may crisp up too quickly while the inside stays undercooked.

Keep Warm in the Oven

If you’re making a larger batch and want to serve everyone at once, preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C). Place the cooked cinnamon roll French toast pieces on a baking sheet and keep them warm in the oven while you cook the rest.

Use Non-Stick Cookware

To make flipping the French toast easier and to avoid any sticking, use a non-stick skillet or griddle. This ensures a smooth cooking process and a golden finish on every piece.

Variations to Try

Vegan Cinnamon Roll French Toast

For a plant-based version, use dairy-free cinnamon rolls, almond or oat milk, and a flax or chia egg replacement instead of regular eggs. You can also top with coconut whipped cream for a deliciously creamy finish.

Gluten-Free Option

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free cinnamon rolls and swapping regular milk with almond or oat milk. Ensure that your toppings, like syrup or whipped cream, are also gluten-free for a completely safe gluten-free dish.

Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Add a fun twist to your cinnamon roll French toast by incorporating mix-ins into the batter. Try adding a handful of chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) or even chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

Stuffed French Toast

Want to take it up a notch? Turn your cinnamon roll French toast into a stuffed version! After dipping the cinnamon rolls in the batter, add a spoonful of cream cheese or Nutella between two pieces before cooking. This will create a gooey, rich filling that’s sure to impress.

Baked Cinnamon Roll French Toast

For a less hands-on approach, you can bake the cinnamon roll French toast. Instead of frying, place the cinnamon roll pieces in a baking dish, pour the batter over them, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. This method ensures that the dish is evenly cooked and perfectly golden without the need for flipping.

Fruity Toppings

While fresh berries are a fantastic topping, don’t be afraid to experiment with other fruits like sliced bananas, peaches, or warm sautéed apples. These add a fresh, fruity contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.

Caramel Drizzle

For an extra decadent twist, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the finished French toast. The richness of caramel pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and adds a luxurious finish to the dish.

Serving Cinnamon Roll French Toast Like a Pro

Cinnamon Roll French Toast with cream cheese glaze and some berries on a modern white table
A warm and gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast, topped with sweet glaze and some berries ready to enjoy.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is already a rich and indulgent dish, but the right presentation and pairings can turn it into a full brunch experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a family breakfast or hosting a weekend brunch, here are some delicious ways to serve and elevate this cozy treat.

Best Toppings for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Toppings bring balance, contrast, and extra flair. Here are some crowd-pleasing ideas:

  • Fresh Fruit: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or banana slices bring a fresh and slightly acidic contrast to the sweet cinnamon flavor.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and elegance. Try cinnamon whipped cream or flavored varieties like vanilla or maple.
  • Cream Cheese Icing: Drizzle warm cream cheese icing on top for that true cinnamon roll experience. It melts over the warm toast and creates a luscious finish.
  • Maple Syrup: Classic and simple. Go for pure maple syrup to highlight the natural sweetness.
  • Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives a beautiful visual touch and adds just enough sweetness.

What to Serve on the Side

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is sweet and rich, so pairing it with more neutral or savory sides helps round out the meal:

  • Scrambled or Fried Eggs: A bit of savory egg helps cut through the sweetness and keeps the meal balanced.
  • Yogurt Parfait: A lighter side dish with granola and fruit adds freshness and texture variety.
  • Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings color and brightness to your plate.

Drink Pairings

To complete the experience, consider serving with:

  • Freshly Brewed Coffee: A medium roast or cinnamon-flavored blend works beautifully with the spiced notes of the French toast.
  • Chai Latte: The spices in chai echo the cinnamon roll flavor, making for a warm and cozy combination.
  • Fresh Orange Juice or Apple Cider: Bright, slightly tangy juices help refresh the palate between bites.
  • Milk or Almond Milk: A classic choice that complements the richness of the dish.

Presentation Ideas

Want to impress your guests or upgrade your food photos? Try these presentation tips:

  • Stack the pieces high and drizzle the syrup or icing from the top.
  • Use a white plate for contrast, and garnish with mint leaves or a few berries.
  • Serve on a rustic wooden board for a cozy brunch aesthetic.
  • Add a mini bowl of syrup or fruit on the side for an interactive element.

When to Serve It

  • Weekend Brunch: A perfect weekend treat that feels both indulgent and comforting.
  • Holiday Mornings: Ideal for special occasions like Christmas, Easter, or birthdays.
  • Breakfast-for-Dinner: Why not enjoy this dish at night? It’s a satisfying and fun way to switch things up.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll French Toast brings together the best of two beloved classics—cinnamon rolls and French toast—into one warm, satisfying dish. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels like a treat but is simple enough to make at home without stress. Whether you’re making it for a lazy Sunday morning, a festive brunch, or as a surprise for someone you love, this recipe always delivers.

From the soft, sweet interior to the golden, caramelized edges, every bite is comforting and flavorful. The cinnamon-spiced custard adds depth, and the variety of topping options means you can make this dish new and exciting every time you serve it.

Plus, the flexibility of the recipe makes it easy to adapt: you can bake it, stuff it, go gluten-free, or keep it simple. No matter how you prepare it, the result is always crowd-pleasing.

So go ahead—grab those cinnamon rolls, whisk up a quick batter, and turn an everyday morning into something special. Cinnamon Roll French Toast isn’t just breakfast; it’s a sweet moment worth savoring.


Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

Cinnamon Roll French Toast with cream cheese glaze on a modern white table

Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Cinnamon Roll French Toast combines gooey cinnamon rolls with the classic comfort of French toast—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for weekend brunch or indulgent mornings.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Brunch, Sweet Treat
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 390 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast Base:

  • 4 cinnamon rolls
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

For Cooking:

  • 2 tbsp butter

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls: Bake or use pre-baked cinnamon rolls, then cut them into quarters for easy coating.
  • Step 2: Make the Batter: Whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl until smooth and slightly thick.
  • Step 3: Coat the Cinnamon Rolls: Dip each roll piece in the batter, coating fully without over-soaking, and place on a buttered skillet.
  • Step 4: Cook the French Toast: Cook pieces for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp, adding more butter between batches if needed.
  • Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Stack and serve warm with syrup, whipped cream, berries, or powdered sugar.
  • Optional Toppings: Add cream cheese icing or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

🧪 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 390 kcal
Total Fat 17 g
Saturated Fat 8 g
Cholesterol 135 mg
Sodium 320 mg
Carbohydrates 48 g
Sugars 22 g
Protein 9 g
Fiber 2 g
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on the brand of cinnamon rolls and toppings used.
Keyword brunch ideas, cinnamon roll French toast, easy breakfast recipe, skillet cinnamon toast, sweet breakfast

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FAQs – Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Here are the most common questions readers ask about making Cinnamon Roll French Toast, with clear and helpful answers to ensure your recipe turns out perfectly every time.

1. Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls?

Yes! Store-bought cinnamon rolls (baked or pre-packaged) work very well for this recipe. They save time and still absorb the custard beautifully. Just avoid frosted or overly gooey varieties, as they can become too wet when soaked.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the French toast up to the soaking stage and refrigerate it overnight in a covered dish. In the morning, cook or bake as directed. This makes it perfect for holiday mornings or entertaining.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Let the French toast cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet, oven, or toaster oven to keep the edges crispy.

4. Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll French Toast?

Yes. Place cooled slices between parchment paper and freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes.

5. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the soft, sweet flavor. You can even let them help dip the rolls in the batter or choose their toppings—like bananas, mini chocolate chips, or a light dusting of powdered sugar.

6. What can I use instead of milk?

You can substitute any milk alternative, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to control the overall sugar level in the dish.

7. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?

Yes, and it’s a great way to use leftover rolls. Homemade versions often have more flavor and texture. Just make sure they’re not too soft or freshly iced before dipping.

8. How do I avoid soggy French toast?

Avoid over-soaking and use slightly stale or day-old rolls for better structure. Also, cook on medium heat so the interior has time to cook through without the outside burning.

9. What’s the best way to make it for a crowd?

Use the baked variation! Place the soaked rolls in a greased casserole dish, pour the remaining batter over, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes. It’s hands-off and perfect for serving multiple people at once.

10. Can I make it without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with a plant-based alternative like a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer. Combine 1 tbsp ground flaxseed with 2.5 tbsp water for each egg. Let sit for 5 minutes before using.

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