Few things can rival the warm, sweet, and indulgent comfort of cinnamon rolls. Combine that with the golden, crispy texture of French toast, and you have a truly unforgettable breakfast. This Cinnamon Roll French Toast recipe combines the best of both worlds, offering a rich, cinnamon-infused treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, planning a cozy breakfast, or simply craving something sweet, this recipe has you covered.
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up this delightful dish in under 30 minutes.
- Customizable: From toppings like powdered sugar to syrups and fresh fruits, there are endless ways to make this recipe your own.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family gatherings, holiday mornings, or even as a decadent breakfast-for-dinner option.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll French Toast
To create this delicious breakfast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the French Toast:
- Cinnamon Bread or Rolls: About 6 slices of thick cinnamon bread or cinnamon rolls, sliced.
- Eggs: 4 large eggs, to create the custard base.
- Milk: 1 cup of whole milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or oat milk.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon to add a subtle sweetness.
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon for a touch of added sweetness (optional).
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, for cooking.
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries (like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- Cream cheese frosting
- Chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast
1. Prepare the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth. This custard mixture will soak into the bread, giving it that rich, velvety texture you love in French toast.
2. Slice and Soak the Bread
Cut your cinnamon bread or rolls into thick slices—around 1 inch thick is perfect. Dip each slice into the custard, ensuring it’s fully coated on both sides. Let the bread soak for about 10-15 seconds to absorb the flavors.
3. Heat the Pan
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, swirling it around to coat the surface evenly.
4. Cook the French Toast
Gently place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet. Cook each slice for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Continue cooking the remaining slices, ensuring to add extra butter to the pan if necessary.
5. Add Your Favorite Toppings
While the French toast is still warm, pile on your favorite toppings. A drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of cream cheese frosting will take this dish to the next level.
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better and holds its shape during cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the slices in batches to ensure even browning.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If your cinnamon bread is already sweet, you can skip the sugar in the custard mixture.
Variations to Try
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to experiment and customize it to your taste. Here are some exciting variations:
1. Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
Turn this dish into a baked casserole! Layer cinnamon roll slices in a greased baking dish, pour the custard over the top, and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes until set. Perfect for feeding a crowd!
2. Healthy Cinnamon French Toast
Swap whole milk for almond milk, and use whole-grain or sprouted bread for a healthier twist.
3. Cinnamon Swirl French Toast
Enhance the cinnamon flavor by using cinnamon swirl bread as the base. This bread is packed with flavor and adds a unique texture.
4. Chocolate Cinnamon French Toast
Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder to the custard mixture, or serve with chocolate syrup for a decadent dessert-style breakfast.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 120mg |
| Sodium | 240mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 15g |
| Protein | 8g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on the exact ingredients used.
Best Toppings for Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- Classic Maple Syrup: The go-to choice for a sweet, sticky finish.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Whip up a glaze with cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk for a cinnamon roll-inspired touch.
- Fresh Fruits: Add a refreshing burst of flavor with berries, bananas, or sliced apples.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
- Whipped Cream: A light and fluffy topping that’s always a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is It Convenient to Prepare This Recipe Ahead?
Yes! The custard mixture can be prepared, and the bread can be soaked overnight for convenience. Store the soaked slices in the refrigerator and cook them fresh in the morning.
2. Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Absolutely! Cooked French toast slices can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat them in a toaster, oven, or skillet for a quick breakfast.
3. What’s the Best Bread for This Recipe?
Thick cinnamon bread, brioche, or challah works best. Avoid soft, airy bread as it tends to fall apart.
Pairings and Side Dishes
Complete your breakfast table with these complementary dishes:
- Scrambled Eggs: Add a savory touch to balance the sweetness.
- Bacon or Sausage: A crispy side of protein pairs perfectly with the rich French toast.
- Fresh Juice or Coffee: Brighten your morning with orange juice or a strong cup of coffee.
Related Recipes
If you loved this Cinnamon Roll French Toast, check out these other breakfast favorites:
- Fluffy Pancake Recipe: A light and airy classic.
- Overnight Oats with Fresh Berries: A healthy, make-ahead breakfast option.
- Spinach and Feta Omelet: Perfect for meal prepping and on-the-go mornings.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast recipe is more than just breakfast—it’s an experience. Combining the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the classic comfort of French toast, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it up for a special occasion or enjoying a lazy Sunday morning, you’ll love the ease and flavor of this recipe.
So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag us with your favorite toppings.