There’s something wonderfully comforting about a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, and that’s exactly what you’ll find with these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites. Picture this: crispy golden exteriors that give way to a soft, custardy center, all infused with the heavenly scent of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen. This delightful twist on both cinnamon rolls and French toast creates a deliciously addictive treat perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy weekend morning.
I discovered this gem during a particularly chaotic morning when I was craving something special but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and some clever shortcuts, I managed to whip up a batch that’s not only quick but utterly satisfying. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll want to share them with everyone — or keep them all to yourself! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this comforting and customizable dish that truly elevates breakfast.
Why love Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Irresistible Comfort: These bites are the ultimate breakfast treat, blending the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls and French toast.
Customizable Fun: Elevate your breakfast with various toppings—think fresh fruits, nuts, or decadent glazes. The options are endless!
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe comes together in no time, allowing you to savor deliciousness without the wait.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a family gathering, these bites are sure to impress everyone, earning you rave reviews.
Memorable Flavor: Every bite encapsulates the familiarity of homemade goodness, turning any meal into a special occasion.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Ingredients
Get ready to whip up something delightful!
For the Bites
• Thick White Bread – Helps absorb the egg mixture; using day-old bread intensifies flavor!
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients together and creates a custardy texture; three small eggs work just as well if needed.
• Milk – Adds moisture and richness; feel free to use any milk alternative you prefer.
• Pinch of Salt – Balances sweetness for a more complete flavor profile.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the coating; consider a sugar alternative if you’re going for lighter calories.
• Ground Cinnamon – The star of this recipe, delivering that classic cinnamon roll taste.
For Cooking
• Butter – For frying, creating a crispy golden exterior; vegetable oil can be substituted in a pinch.
For Serving
• Maple Syrup – The perfect drizzle for authentic flavor; it’s a must-have topping for your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites!
Mix and match to create your own delicious variations—each bite is a taste of breakfast bliss!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
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Prepare the Bread: Trim the crusts off thick white bread slices and cut them into 9 equal cubes each. Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and golden results.
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Whisk the Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the large eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This mixture will create the delicious custard that coats your bread bites.
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Combine Sugar and Cinnamon: In another shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This will be used for coating the bites and enhance their sweet flavor.
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Heat the Skillet: Place a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and melt ½ tablespoon of butter. This creates a perfect base for frying your bites until they’re golden brown.
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Coat and Cook the Bites: Toss half of the bread cubes in the egg mixture until well-coated. Transfer them to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until they are golden and fluffy, tossing occasionally for even browning.
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Sugar Coating: Once cooked, immediately transfer the bites to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Toss until they’re evenly coated in that scrumptious sweetness.
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Repeat Cooking: Add the remaining butter to the skillet and repeat the process with the rest of the bread cubes, ensuring each batch is equally delicious.
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Serve Warm: Delight in these bite-sized wonders while they’re still warm, drizzled generously with maple syrup for that authentic touch!
Optional: Add fresh berries for a burst of flavor and nutrition!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Indulge your senses and elevate your breakfast experience with pairings that enhance the joy of these delightful treats.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy berries lend a refreshing contrast to the sweet, gooey bites, adding a burst of color and nutrition.
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Honey Butter: This creamy, sweet spread enhances the cinnamon flavor while adding a luscious richness. A bit of drizzle creates a heavenly combination.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of homemade or store-bought whipped cream adds a delightful touch of indulgence. Perfect for those who want a dessert-like breakfast!
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Orange Zest: A sprinkle of citrus zest brightens the flavor profile, bringing a refreshing twist that awakens the taste buds.
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Maple Bacon: Crispy bacon, lightly coated with maple syrup, provides a smoky, savory contrast to the sweet bites. It’s breakfast harmony on a plate!
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Iced Coffee: This refreshing drink complements the warm flavors of the bites while providing that essential caffeine boost for your day.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on your bites not only amplifies the sweetness but also adds a luxurious finish to each mouthful.
Don’t forget to mix and match these pairings to create a brunch spread that feels inviting, warm, and utterly comforting!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Room Temperature: Store leftover bites in an airtight container for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: If you have more leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can lose some crispness, so reheat before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To restore their lovely crunch, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
• Size Matters: Ensure bread cubes are cut into uniform sizes to guarantee even cooking and a consistent golden brown color.
• Watch the Heat: Adjust frying times to your stovetop temperature, focusing on achieving a deep golden hue without the risk of burning.
• Cinnamon Twist: For a unique flavor, consider adding cardamom or cloves into your cinnamon-sugar mix for a delightful twist on these cinnamon roll French toast bites.
• Taste Test Toppings: Don’t hesitate to customize your toppings! Fresh fruits, nuts, or drizzles can elevate these bites, enhancing both texture and taste.
• Make Ahead: While these bites are best enjoyed fresh, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days, with a quick reheating in the oven to restore their crispness.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the egg mixture (eggs, milk, and salt) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, you can cut the bread into cubes and store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat a skillet, toss the bread cubes in the egg mixture, and cook as directed until they are golden brown. The prepped components ensure you can whip up this delicious breakfast treat quickly on busy mornings, giving you all the comforting flavors just as delightful as if you made them fresh that day!
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful bites your own!
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Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and healthy fats. These bites turn into an irresistible treat with a satisfying crunch that complements the soft, custardy interior.
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Seasonal Spices: Swap out the traditional cinnamon with pumpkin spice or chai spice for a seasonal twist that adds warmth and an enticing aroma. Imagine filling your kitchen with the cozy scent of autumn while savoring each bite!
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Fruity Freshness: Toss in fresh berries or citrus zest into the egg mixture for a refreshing burst of flavor. Pairing the sweetness of the cinnamon and sugar with vibrant fruit makes each bite pop with flavor!
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Chocolaty Indulgence: Add mini chocolate chips to the bread mixture for an irresistible sweet twist. The melted chocolate adds richness and a delightful surprise in every bite, turning your breakfast into an indulgent dessert-like experience.
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Glazed Goodness: Drizzle these bites with a simple cream cheese glaze or flavored syrup such as maple or caramel for an extravagant touch. This extra sweet layer takes your breakfast to a whole new level of enjoyment!
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Savory Twist: Consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon or sausage to the bread mixture for a savory-sweet combo. It’s a fun way to balance flavors and make every bite extra satisfying.
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Dairy-Free Delight: To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute regular milk with almond or oat milk. Enjoy the same wonderful flavors while accommodating dietary needs!
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Low-Sugar Variation: Use a sugar alternative like stevia or erythritol to cut down on calories without sacrificing sweetness. You can still enjoy the joy of these bites while being mindful of your dietary choices!
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Absolutely! Thick white bread is ideal because it provides the right structure and absorbs the egg mixture perfectly. I recommend using day-old bread for the best flavor and texture since it’s a bit drier and absorbs the custard better without getting mushy.
How should I store leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Very! Store leftover bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To maintain their delicious crispness when reheating, pop them in the oven for a few minutes before serving again.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Indeed! To freeze, first place the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. This method prevents sticking and preserves their delightful texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.
What can I do if my bites are not browning evenly?
Not to worry! Ensure that your bread cubes are uniform in size for even cooking. Also, adjust your stovetop heat if necessary. If some are browning faster than others, toss them occasionally in the skillet to promote even cooking. You want that lovely, deep golden color throughout!
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! Since the main ingredients include eggs, milk, and bread, those who have allergies to dairy or gluten should select appropriate substitutes. Use a dairy-free milk alternative and gluten-free bread to cater to those with dietary restrictions. Making it inclusive is a great way to enjoy these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites together!
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: Sweet Brunch Bliss Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Trim the crusts off thick white bread slices and cut them into 9 equal cubes each.
- In a bowl, whisk together the large eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
- In another shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Place a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and melt ½ tablespoon of butter.
- Toss half of the bread cubes in the egg mixture until well-coated and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Once cooked, transfer the bites to the cinnamon-sugar mixture and toss to coat.
- Add the remaining butter to the skillet and repeat the process with the rest of the bread cubes.
- Serve warm, drizzled generously with maple syrup.