Introduction
Cinnamon Roll French Toast is the ultimate breakfast indulgence, combining two beloved classics into one irresistible dish. Soft cinnamon rolls soak up a rich custard, then cook into a golden, gooey breakfast that tastes like a bakery treat with minimal effort. I first made this when I wanted something special for a weekend brunch without spending hours in the kitchen, and it quickly became a favorite. The cinnamon filling melts into the custard, creating layers of warmth and sweetness, while the exterior develops a lightly crisp finish. What makes this dish so appealing is its balance. It feels decadent, yet familiar and comforting. Perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or slow mornings, Cinnamon Roll French Toast delivers cozy flavor and impressive results with surprisingly simple preparation.
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Cinnamon Roll French Toast – Warm, Gooey, and Brunch-Perfect
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A decadent breakfast dish made by dipping cinnamon rolls in a rich egg custard and cooking them until golden, then finished with icing and syrup.
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (icing reserved)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Separate cinnamon rolls and cut each roll in half.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.
- Heat butter in a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Dip cinnamon roll pieces into the egg mixture, coating well.
- Place dipped rolls onto the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with reserved icing.
- Serve warm with maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
- Best served immediately while warm.
- Add powdered sugar or fresh fruit for garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, comforting, and perfect for sharing. It transforms store-bought cinnamon rolls into a warm, custardy breakfast that feels homemade and indulgent.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls form the base of the dish, providing soft dough and swirls of cinnamon sugar that melt into the custard.
Eggs
Eggs create the custard that coats the rolls, giving the dish structure and richness.
Whole Milk
Milk softens the rolls and helps create a smooth, creamy custard.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream adds richness and ensures a soft, luxurious texture.
Granulated Sugar
Sugar lightly sweetens the custard without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon
Extra cinnamon intensifies the warm spice notes already present in the rolls.
Butter
Butter prevents sticking and adds richness during cooking.
Powdered Sugar or Icing
This adds a sweet finish and classic cinnamon roll appeal.
Directions
Begin by cutting the cinnamon rolls into large pieces and setting aside. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt butter evenly across the surface. Dip the cinnamon roll pieces into the custard mixture, allowing them to soak briefly.
Place the soaked pieces onto the hot skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, turning gently to avoid tearing. Cook until the exterior is lightly crisp and the inside is soft and custardy.
Remove from heat and drizzle with icing or dust with powdered sugar before serving. Serve warm for best texture and flavor.
Equipment needed :
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 15 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Variations and Customizations
Cinnamon Roll French Toast is easy to adapt for different preferences. For a baked version, arrange the soaked cinnamon roll pieces in a baking dish and bake until puffed and golden.
You can add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or drizzle with maple syrup for extra sweetness. Fresh fruit such as berries or sliced bananas adds brightness and balance.
For a richer version, increase the cream and reduce the milk slightly. If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the added sugar and rely on the cinnamon rolls themselves for sweetness.
This recipe also works well with homemade cinnamon rolls or day-old rolls for a slightly firmer texture.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is rich in carbohydrates and fats, making it an indulgent breakfast option. It is vegetarian-friendly and intended for occasional enjoyment.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Custard soak
Do not oversoak the rolls to prevent sogginess.
Even browning
Cook over medium heat to allow the center to warm without burning.
Serve immediately
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm.
FAQs
Can I bake this instead of frying?
Yes, it can be baked for a hands-off version.
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Yes, homemade rolls work very well.
Why is my French toast soggy?
The rolls may have soaked too long in the custard.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well.
What toppings work best?
Icing, powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fruit all pair nicely.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.
How do I know it is cooked through?
The exterior should be golden and the center warm.
Can I add cream cheese glaze?
Yes, it enhances the cinnamon roll flavor.
What heat level is best?
Medium heat prevents burning while cooking evenly.
Is this suitable for kids?
Yes, it is very kid-friendly.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll French Toast is a comforting, crowd-pleasing breakfast that turns simple ingredients into something truly special. Warm, gooey, and full of cinnamon flavor, it is the perfect recipe for brunches, holidays, or anytime you want to make breakfast feel extra memorable.
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