Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Introduction

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is a dreamy fusion of two beloved breakfast favorites: cinnamon rolls and French toast. Soft, gooey, cinnamon-spiced rolls are dipped in a rich egg custard and pan-fried until golden, creating a decadent morning treat that’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or when you want to seriously impress someone with breakfast.

The History of Cinnamon Roll French Toast

French toast dates back to ancient times, originally a way to use up stale bread. Cinnamon rolls, meanwhile, come from Northern Europe, especially Sweden and Denmark. The combination of the two is a modern twist that probably originated in American home kitchens or cafés, where indulgent breakfast mashups are always a hit.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll typically need:

• Cinnamon rolls – either homemade or store-bought (baked and cooled)
• Eggs – for the custard base
• Milk or cream – to make the custard rich and smooth
• Vanilla extract – for flavor
• Ground cinnamon – for an extra spice boost
• Butter – for frying
• Optional toppings – cream cheese glaze, maple syrup, whipped cream, or powdered sugar

Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 large cinnamon rolls (baked, not raw)
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for richness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Butter, for cooking
• Toppings: maple syrup, glaze, powdered sugar, etc.

Instructions:

1. Slice each cinnamon roll in half horizontally like a sandwich (optional for thinner pieces).
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon.
3. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a bit of butter.
4. Dip the cinnamon roll halves into the custard, coating both sides.
5. Cook each slice for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
6. Serve warm with your choice of toppings: syrup, glaze drizzle, or whipped cream.

Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Use day-old cinnamon rolls if possible – they hold up better when soaked
Don’t soak too long – just a quick dip is enough to coat
Use medium heat – too high and the sugar may burn before the center is heated
For extra indulgence, top with a warm cream cheese glaze or caramel sauce

Variations and Customizations

Stuffed: Add a layer of sweetened cream cheese or Nutella between sliced rolls
Baked version: Arrange dipped rolls in a baking dish and bake for a casserole-style twist
Savory-sweet: Add a pinch of salt and serve with bacon or sausage on the side
Fruit-forward: Top with fresh berries, banana slices, or apple compote

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

This is a treat-style breakfast, so expect:

• High sugar content, especially with glaze and syrup
• Moderate to high fat due to eggs, butter, and cinnamon roll base
• Around 300–500 calories per serving depending on toppings

Healthier Tips:

Use reduced-sugar cinnamon rolls
Swap whole milk for almond or oat milk
Skip the extra syrup and use fruit as a natural sweetener
Try pan-frying with coconut oil instead of butter

FAQ

Can I use canned cinnamon rolls?
Yes, just bake them first and let them cool before turning them into French toast.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the egg custard and pre-slice the rolls ahead of time. Cook just before serving for best results.

Can I make a large batch for guests?
Absolutely. Use a griddle or try the baked casserole version if you want to serve a crowd.

What if my rolls fall apart while dipping?
Try slicing them a bit thicker or using day-old rolls for more structure.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is a dreamy fusion of two beloved breakfast favorites: cinnamon rolls and French toast. Soft, gooey, cinnamon-spiced rolls are dipped in a rich egg custard and pan-fried until golden, creating a decadent morning treat that’s perfect for brunch, holidays, or when you want to seriously impress someone with breakfast.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 1 can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls
• 3 large eggs at room temperature
• ¼ cup 60 ml milk at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup 120 ml maple syrup

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat for at least 20–30 minutes before baking the cinnamon roll casserole. Grease an 8 x 8-inch (20 cm) baking dish with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of melted unsalted butter.
• Cut the refrigerated cinnamon rolls into 6–8 evenly sized pieces each. Arrange the cinnamon roll pieces in a single layer at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Set aside the included icing packet to use as a topping after baking.
• In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten. Add the milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, whisking until fully combined. Finally, mix in the maple syrup until the custard is smooth and well incorporated.
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• Pour the prepared cinnamon custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the edges of the cinnamon rolls pull slightly away from the sides of the dish. The custard should be fully set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
• Let the cinnamon roll French toast casserole cool for 10–15 minutes before drizzling the reserved icing over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!