Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Weekends in our house call for something special, and these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are always a hit. Imagine your favorite gooey cinnamon rolls transformed into bite-sized French toast—crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and full of sweet, spiced flavor. It’s a quick, fun twist on two breakfast classics that kids and adults alike can enjoy.

This recipe is perfect when you want a cozy breakfast that feels like a treat without a ton of prep. Whether it's a slow Sunday morning, a surprise breakfast-in-bed, or part of a festive brunch spread, these little bites of comfort are ready in minutes and deliver big flavor. They also make a fun addition to holiday mornings, like Christmas or Easter, when you're looking to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

Since they start with refrigerated cinnamon rolls, there’s minimal prep and maximum deliciousness. Plus, they’re easy to customize with toppings or mix-ins. The cinnamon sugar icing gives them a bakery-style touch, and they pair perfectly with a side of fresh fruit or a mimosa for the grown-ups.

Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

• Fast and Easy: Uses pre-made cinnamon rolls for a shortcut breakfast that still feels special.
• Kid-Friendly: Fun for little hands to help make and even more fun to eat.
• Perfect for Brunch: Bite-sized and beautiful, ideal for sharing with a crowd.
• Cozy and Sweet: A warm blend of cinnamon roll richness with crispy, golden edges from the French toast treatment.
• Customizable: Serve with maple syrup, icing, whipped cream, or fresh fruit—the sky's the limit.
• Small Bites: Great for portion control, brunch buffets, or creating a breakfast board.
• Minimal Cleanup: Just a bowl, a skillet, and a spatula.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 can (12.4 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8 rolls)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk (whole, 2%, or a dairy-free alternative)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (or nonstick spray)
• Maple syrup, for serving
• Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Cinnamon Rolls:
   • Open the can and separate the cinnamon rolls.
   • Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut each roll into 6-8 bite-sized pieces. Spread them out on a cutting board or tray.
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Dip and Soak:
   • Place the cinnamon roll pieces into the egg mixture.
   • Gently stir to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Let sit for 3-5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
4. Cook the Bites:
   • Heat butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the soaked pieces in a single layer (in batches if needed). Don’t overcrowd the pan.
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.
5. Serve:
   • Remove bites from the skillet and transfer to a serving plate.
   • Warm the icing from the cinnamon roll package in the microwave for 10 seconds and drizzle over the bites.
   • Add maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even fresh berries or whipped cream.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve Hot: These are best served warm right after cooking.
• Make a Platter: Arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for an easy grab-and-go brunch bite.
• Storage: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. For a crispier texture, use an air fryer.
• Freeze: Freezing not recommended, as texture may turn soggy.

Helpful Notes

• Add Texture: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips into the egg mixture before cooking.
• Extra Flavor: Swap milk for flavored coffee creamer (like vanilla or cinnamon roll flavor).
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use almond, oat, or soy milk and plant-based butter.
• Elevate It: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Serve With: Fresh fruit, yogurt, or a savory egg dish for a balanced brunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
   These are best made fresh, but you can prep the egg mixture and pre-cut the cinnamon rolls the night before.
2. Can I bake these instead of frying?
   Yes! Place coated pieces on a greased baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
   Absolutely. Just make sure they’re firm enough to hold their shape when cut.
4. What kind of syrup works best?
   Classic maple syrup is a favorite, but you can also try cream cheese glaze, caramel sauce, or even fruit compote.
5. Can I make these in an air fryer?
   Yes! Air fry at 350°F for about 6-8 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the kind of breakfast that turns an ordinary morning into something memorable. They’re sweet, quick to prepare, and endlessly flexible. With golden crisp edges and gooey cinnamon-spiced centers, they hit every comforting note you want in a cozy breakfast or brunch.

Whether you're sharing them with family around the kitchen table or serving them up for guests at a brunch gathering, these bites are sure to be a hit. Keep a can of cinnamon rolls on hand, and you'll always be just a few steps away from breakfast magic!