Cinnamon French Toast Rolls bring a fun twist to a classic breakfast favorite. These bite-sized delights combine the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the comforting texture of French toast, rolled up for easy eating. Perfect for busy mornings or a special weekend treat, they’re as simple to make as they are delicious.
We love how these rolls offer a portable option without sacrificing that rich, custardy goodness. Whether you’re serving them to family or impressing guests, they add a touch of cozy sweetness to any breakfast table. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that turns ordinary bread into an irresistible morning indulgence.
Ingredients
To create our Cinnamon French Toast Rolls, we use simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component is essential to achieve the perfect balance of texture and taste. Below is the detailed list organized by each part of the recipe.
For the French Toast Rolls
- 8 slices of white sandwich bread (crusts removed for easy rolling)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Dipping Sauce
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
| Ingredient Category | Quantities & Key Details |
|---|---|
| Bread | 8 slices white sandwich bread, crusts removed |
| Egg Mixture | 3 eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 2 tsp vanilla, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp salt |
| Filling | 1/2 cup sugar, 2 tsp cinnamon, 2 tbsp melted butter |
| Cooking Butter | 2 tbsp unsalted butter |
| Dipping Sauce | 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup heavy cream, 1 tsp vanilla |
Each ingredient plays an important role — from the rich custardy base of the egg mixture to the sweet and spicy cinnamon sugar filling that defines our cinnamon French toast rolls. The dipping sauce adds a creamy, indulgent finish that perfectly balances the roll’s flavors.
Equipment Needed
To craft our Cinnamon French Toast Rolls flawlessly, having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and perfect results every time. Here’s what we’ll need:
- Mixing Bowls: Use medium and large bowls for whisking eggs, milk, and spices, and for combining the cinnamon sugar filling.
- Whisk: Essential for beating together eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon, creating the custardy base that soaks into the bread.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters. Use these to measure ingredients like milk, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla extract accurately.
- Rolling Pin: To flatten sandwich bread slices evenly making them pliable for rolling.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For trimming crusts and slicing rolled bread into bite-sized portions.
- Skillet or Non-stick Pan: A medium-sized skillet or frying pan works best to cook the rolls evenly. Cast iron skillets hold heat well but any non-stick pan is suitable.
- Spatula or Tongs: For flipping rolls delicately without breaking them, maintaining their shape.
- Baking Sheet or Plate: To hold prepared rolls before cooking or to place them once cooked.
- Paper Towels: Useful for blotting excess butter from the pan or rolls after cooking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Mixing custard and cinnamon sugar filling |
| Whisk | Whisk eggs and milk |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Rolling Pin | Flatten bread slices |
| Sharp Knife/Pizza Cutter | Trim crusts and slice rolls |
| Skillet/Non-stick Pan | Cook rolls evenly |
| Spatula or Tongs | Flip rolls delicately |
| Baking Sheet/Plate | Holding rolls before and after cooking |
| Paper Towels | Drain excess butter or moisture |
By assembling these tools ahead of time we set ourselves up for an efficient and enjoyable cooking experience. Each piece of equipment plays a key role in transforming simple ingredients into our irresistible Cinnamon French Toast Rolls.
Prep Work
Before we dive into cooking, the prep work sets the foundation for perfect Cinnamon French Toast Rolls. Let’s prepare each component meticulously to ensure a smooth process and exceptional flavors.
Preparing the Bread
- Take 8 slices of white sandwich bread. We want fresh bread but slightly firm for easier rolling.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, carefully trim the crusts off each slice. Removing the crusts allows for a neat roll and even cooking.
- Flatten each slice with a rolling pin to about 1/4 inch thickness. This step softens the bread and makes it pliable for rolling without tearing.
- Set the flattened bread slices aside on a clean surface, ready for filling.
Making the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
Our cinnamon sugar filling adds the signature warmth and sweetness to these rolls.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup | For sweetness |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tablespoon | Provides the classic spice |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons | Melted, for smooth texture |
- In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly.
- Add the melted unsalted butter and mix until the sugar-cinnamon mixture is evenly coated and slightly pasty.
- Keep the filling nearby for easy spreading when rolling the bread.
Preparing the Egg Mixture
This step creates the custardy base of our French toast rolls to give them that rich, creamy texture.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large eggs | 3 | Lightly beaten |
| Whole milk | 1 cup | Full-fat for creaminess |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Enhances aroma |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon | Adds subtle spice |
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon to infuse flavor.
- Whisk briskly until the mixture is fully combined and slightly frothy, ensuring an even custard for dipping the bread rolls.
We now have our key elements ready: perfectly prepped bread, a luscious cinnamon sugar filling, and a rich egg mixture. With these preparations, assembling the Cinnamon French Toast Rolls will be effortless and delightful.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to craft perfectly golden and flavorful Cinnamon French Toast Rolls. Each stage highlights the essential actions for a seamless cooking experience.
Rolling the Cinnamon French Toast Rolls
- Lay each slice of the flattened white sandwich bread on a clean surface.
- Spread a generous layer of the cinnamon sugar filling evenly over each slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Starting from one end, gently roll up each bread slice into a tight log.
- Press the seam down lightly to seal the roll and prevent it from opening during cooking.
- Set the rolled pieces aside on a plate or baking sheet before moving to the next step.
Cooking the Rolls
- Preheat a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
- Melt about 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in the skillet, making sure it coats the surface evenly.
- Dip each cinnamon roll into the prepared egg mixture, turning to coat all sides thoroughly.
- Place the coated rolls seam side down in the skillet.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until all sides are golden brown and the custard is cooked through.
- Use a spatula or tongs to carefully turn the rolls for even cooking.
- Once cooked, transfer the rolls to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess butter.
| Step | Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat skillet | 2-3 minutes | Medium | Use non-stick for best results |
| Cook each roll side | 2-3 minutes | Medium | Cook evenly until golden brown |
| Drain excess butter | Immediately | N/A | Use paper towels |
Making the Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine pure maple syrup, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
- Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Pour the sauce into a small serving dish to accompany the warm rolls.
- Optionally, add a pinch of cinnamon or a drizzle of melted butter on top for extra richness.
- Serve the Cinnamon French Toast Rolls warm with the dipping sauce on the side for irresistible indulgence.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Cinnamon French Toast Rolls, we recommend serving them with accompaniments that enhance their warm, cinnamon-infused flavor and soft texture.
- Drizzle with Warm Maple Cream Sauce: Pour the creamy dipping sauce made from maple syrup, heavy cream, and vanilla extract generously over the rolls. The sauce adds a luscious sweetness that complements the cinnamon sugar filling perfectly.
- Add Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a vibrant contrast both in color and acidity. Sliced bananas or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds also work wonderfully to brighten the plate.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: Lightly sifting powdered sugar over the rolls adds a delicate sweetness and an elegant finish, making the dish more visually appealing.
- Serve with Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of thick Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the richness with a touch of tang.
- Pair with Hot Beverages: Enjoy the rolls alongside a cup of strong coffee, chai tea, or hot cocoa for a comforting breakfast experience.
| Serving Option | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Warm Maple Cream Sauce | Maple syrup blended with heavy cream and vanilla | Enhances sweetness and richness |
| Fresh Berries | Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries | Adds acidity and fresh flavor |
| Powdered Sugar | Light dusting over rolls | Adds subtle sweetness and garnish |
| Whipped Cream or Yogurt | Creamy topping | Balances richness with creaminess |
| Hot Coffee or Chai Tea | Warm beverage pairing | Complements cinnamon spice |
“Serving these rolls with fresh fruits and a drizzle of maple cream sauce creates a breakfast that feels both indulgent and wholesome.”
By combining these elements we elevate our Cinnamon French Toast Rolls into a well-rounded and memorable meal that is both aesthetically pleasing and delicious.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy our Cinnamon French Toast Rolls any time, proper make-ahead and storage strategies are essential. Here’s how we can prepare and preserve them for maximum freshness and flavor.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Assemble in Advance:
We can roll and fill the bread slices up to 24 hours before cooking. After spreading the cinnamon sugar filling and rolling tightly, place the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- Pre-Cooking Freezing Option:
For longer storage, freeze the assembled rolls before cooking. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They keep well for up to 1 month frozen.
- Thawing and Cooking:
When ready to eat, thaw rolls overnight in the fridge if frozen. Dip in the egg mixture and cook as directed. This method prevents sogginess and preserves the creamy custard texture.
Storing Cooked Cinnamon French Toast Rolls
- Cooling:
Allow cooked rolls to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent condensation that can cause sogginess.
- Refrigeration:
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container. They will keep fresh for 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Freezing Cooked Rolls:
Wrap each cooled roll tightly in plastic wrap then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tips
| Method | Instructions | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | Preheat to 350°F. Place rolls on a baking sheet. Heat for 10–15 minutes uncovered. | Crispy exterior, warm interior |
| Microwave | Heat individually for 30–45 seconds on a microwave-safe plate. | Soft texture but less crispy |
| Toaster Oven | Toast on medium heat for 5–7 minutes. | Balanced crispness and warmth |
Tip: To restore the original buttery flavor, add a small pat of butter on top before reheating in the oven or toaster oven.
Additional Storage Reminders
- Keep the cinnamon sugar filling and maple cream dipping sauce separate if storing leftovers to prevent sogginess.
- Label containers with the date to ensure freshness is tracked accurately.
By following these make-ahead and storage tips, we ensure that every bite of our Cinnamon French Toast Rolls delivers the same delightful texture and flavor whether served fresh or enjoyed later.
Conclusion
Cinnamon French Toast Rolls bring a fun and flavorful twist to your breakfast routine. They’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for both busy mornings and special gatherings. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can create a delicious treat that everyone will love.
By preparing them ahead or freezing for later, these rolls fit seamlessly into our schedules without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether served with fresh fruit or a warm dipping sauce, they’re sure to become a favorite in our breakfast lineup. Let’s enjoy this delightful recipe that combines convenience with comforting flavors every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cinnamon French Toast Rolls?
Cinnamon French Toast Rolls are bite-sized breakfast treats made by rolling cinnamon sugar-filled bread slices, dipping them in an egg mixture, and cooking until golden. They offer the flavor of classic French toast in an easy-to-eat, portable form.
What ingredients do I need to make Cinnamon French Toast Rolls?
You will need white sandwich bread, eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and ingredients for the dipping sauce such as maple syrup, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
What equipment is required to prepare these rolls?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, rolling pin, sharp knife or pizza cutter, skillet or non-stick pan, spatula or tongs, and a baking sheet or plate.
How do I prepare the bread for Cinnamon French Toast Rolls?
Trim the crusts from 8 slices of slightly firm white bread and flatten each slice with a rolling pin to make rolling easier and ensure even cooking.
How are the Cinnamon French Toast Rolls cooked?
Spread cinnamon sugar filling on each flattened bread slice, roll tightly, seal the edges, dip in the egg mixture, and cook in a preheated skillet until golden brown on all sides.
What is the dipping sauce made of?
The dipping sauce combines maple syrup, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, providing a creamy, sweet complement to the rolls when served warm.
Can these Cinnamon French Toast Rolls be made ahead?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours ahead or freeze them. Store the cinnamon sugar filling and dipping sauce separately to prevent sogginess.
How should I store and reheat leftover rolls?
Cool the rolls, refrigerate in an airtight container, and reheat using an oven, microwave, or toaster oven to maintain texture and flavor.
What are some serving suggestions to enhance the dish?
Drizzle with warm maple cream sauce, add fresh fruit like berries or bananas, dust with powdered sugar, or serve with whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a delicious breakfast.
Are Cinnamon French Toast Rolls suitable for busy mornings?
Yes, their bite-sized, portable nature makes them perfect for quick breakfasts or special occasions without sacrificing flavor or texture.