There's nothing quite like the combination of sweet, pillowy cinnamon rolls and nostalgic French toast to brighten your morning. One lazy Sunday, I found myself craving both, but time was short. That's when inspiration struck! I decided to create these delightful Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform everyday cinnamon roll dough into bite-sized pieces of pure comfort. Picture these golden-brown morsels served with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar – they’re sure to impress your friends and family without the fuss of traditional recipes. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy breakfast in bed, they bring joy and ease to the table.
Whether you’re whipping them up on a quiet morning or for a lively potluck, these bites are poised to become a new favorite. Ready to dive in? Let’s indulge in a treat that offers both nostalgia and excitement!
Why You'll Love This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
- These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy a delicious breakfast without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The flavor combination of sweet cinnamon rolls and creamy French toast is sure to satisfy your taste buds and make your mornings feel special.
- Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for sharing and ensures they're a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
- With a visual appeal that's simply irresistible, these treats will have everyone reaching for a second helping.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up this delightful dish!
For the Dough
- Cinnamon roll dough – Choose your favorite brand for an easy, sweet base.
- Flour – Just a tablespoon, to help prevent sticking when cutting the dough.
For the Custard Mixture
- Large eggs – Create a rich, creamy texture when combined with the other ingredients.
- Milk – Use whole milk for added creaminess or substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Sugar – Helps enhance the sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
- Vanilla extract – A splash of this brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Ground cinnamon – Not only for flavor but to deepen that cozy cinnamon roll essence.
- Nutmeg – Just half a teaspoon adds a delightful warm spice, elevating the overall taste.
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are set to become your go-to for gathering friends and family around the breakfast table!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
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Unroll the cinnamon roll dough and lay it flat on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into small, bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch squares, to allow for even cooking.
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Whisk together in a mixing bowl the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and combined, creating a delightful custard mix that will coat the dough.
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Dip each piece of cinnamon roll dough into the custard mixture, letting any excess batter drip off gently before transferring the pieces to your cooking surface.
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Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Place the coated dough pieces onto the surface and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and fragrant.
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Alternatively, preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the coated dough pieces on the sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure an evenly baked bite.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are perfect for busy mornings and can easily be prepared in advance! You can cut the cinnamon roll dough and whisk the custard mixture (eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg) up to 24 hours ahead. Simply store them separately in airtight containers to keep the dough from drying out and to maintain the custard's freshness. When you’re ready to serve, dip the dough pieces into the custard, cook them on the griddle, or bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes. With this prep method, you’ll have delightful, homemade breakfast bites ready in no time, making your mornings smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Room Temperature: Keep uneaten Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature to maintain their softness.
Fridge: Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or toaster oven for a quick, warm treat.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cinnamon roll bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat frozen bites directly in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Variations
Get ready to make this delightful dish your own with these fun and easy twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter, dairy-free delight. Each bite still keeps its luscious flavor and tenderness!
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Nut-Free: Use coconut milk instead of regular milk and skip the nutmeg for a soothing, nut-free version that shines among other flavors.
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Chocolate Chip Surprise: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a sweet surprise inside each bite. The melting chocolate gives a wonderful indulgence with every mouthful.
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Spiced Up: Kick it up a notch by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the custard for a unique sweet and spicy flavor experience. Just a hint of heat can transform the dish!
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Berry-Infused: Fold in some fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or strawberries into the custard mixture for a burst of fruity freshness in every bite. This adds both color and a sweet-tart flavor that complements the cinnamon wonderfully.
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Maple Glaze: After cooking, drizzle your bites with a warm maple syrup glaze for added sweetness. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup to create a deliciously sticky coating.
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Caramel Crunch: Top your finished bites with crushed caramel candies or toffee bits before serving for a sweet, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft dough.
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Savory Twist: Swap the cinnamon and nutmeg for red pepper flakes and garlic powder for a savory alternative, perfect for a brunch with a different flair. These bites can take on a new life, savory yet satisfying!
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Elevate your breakfast experience by pairing these delightful bites with complementary flavors and textures that will create a memorable meal.
- Maple Syrup: The classic choice for drizzling brings a natural sweetness that enhances the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color to your plate, making every bite a cheerful experience.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream introduces a luscious creaminess that perfectly balances the cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Banana Slices: Slices of ripe banana complement the sweetness while adding a delightful texture, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Crumbled Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon provides a savory contrast to the sweet bites, creating a dynamic blend of flavors that everyone will love.
- Coffee: A warm cup of coffee is the perfect accompaniment, enhancing the cozy morning vibes, and providing that much-needed caffeine kick!
Pairing these elements with your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites will create a delightful brunch spread that's not only delicious but also visually stunning.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, be sure to cut the dough into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and a perfect texture.
- A common mistake is to skip letting the excess custard drip off, which can lead to soggy bites, so take a moment to do this step properly.
- For a delicious variation, try adding a pinch of salt to the custard mixture to enhance all the flavors.
- If you're frying them, make sure the pan is adequately preheated to achieve a nice golden brown crust without undercooking the inside.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right cinnamon roll dough?
Absolutely! When choosing cinnamon roll dough, look for a brand that offers fresh, soft rolls without any dark spots or excessive grease. Check the expiration date to ensure maximum freshness, which will result in fluffier bites.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! You can keep uneaten Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days. If preferred, store them in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and reheat in the microwave or toaster oven before serving.
Can I freeze Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Definitely! To freeze, first arrange the cooked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen bites?
When you're ready to enjoy the bites, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the frozen bites on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through and crispy. This method maintains their delightful texture.
Can I make these bites gluten-free?
Absolutely! If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the cinnamon roll dough with a gluten-free version available at grocery stores. You may also ensure that the flour and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
What should I do if the bites turn out soggy?
Oh no! If your bites turn out soggy, it’s often due to excess custard clinging to the dough. Make sure to let any excess custard drip off each piece before cooking. If they still turn out soggy, you can try placing them back on a hot griddle for a minute or two on each side to get that perfect crispiness.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Unroll the cinnamon roll dough and lay it flat on a lightly floured surface. Cut into small, bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch squares.
- Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a mixing bowl until smooth.
- Dip each piece of dough into the custard mixture, letting any excess drip off before transferring to the cooking surface.
- Heat a frying pan or griddle over medium heat, add butter or oil, and cook dough pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Alternatively, preheat the oven to 375°F, line a baking sheet, arrange dough pieces, and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
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