Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites – The Gooey, Golden Brunch Hack You’ve Been Waiting For 🧈🍯🌀
What happens when you dip warm cinnamon roll dough in sweet vanilla custard and pan-fry it until golden? Pure magic.
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the ultimate shortcut breakfast treat — crispy on the outside, soft and melty inside, and finished with that signature cinnamon-sugar warmth we all love.
Perfect for lazy mornings, holiday brunches, or when you want something sweet without spending hours in the kitchen, these bites bring bold flavor and bakery-style joy to your plate in under 20 minutes!
Let’s get dipping (and frying)!
🥣 Why You’ll Love These French Toast Bites
- Gooey center : Cinnamon sugar melts into a dreamy filling.
- Golden & custardy : Soaked in egg-milk-vanilla mixture just like real French toast.
- Fast & easy : Ready in under 20 minutes — no mixing or rising required.
- Great for sharing : A hit at family breakfasts or potlucks.
- No syrup needed : Already sweet from the icing and sugar swirl!
🧾 Ingredients (Makes 8–10 Bites)
For the French toast bites:
- 1 can (12.4 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8 rolls)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Butter or oil , for cooking
Optional:
- Pinch of cinnamon in the custard for extra spice
- Extra powdered sugar or maple syrup for drizzling
- Sliced strawberries or whipped cream for garnish
🔪 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Fork or whisk
- Skillet or non-stick pan
- Spatula
- Toothpicks or small skewers
- Measuring tools
- Paper towels (for draining)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Slice the Cinnamon Rolls
Unroll the cinnamon rolls and separate them.
Cut each roll into quarters or bite-sized pieces — about 2-inch cubes .
Set aside while preparing the custard dip.
Step 2: Make the Custard Dip
In a small bowl:
- Whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
This creates a rich French toast soak that gives the perfect golden finish.
Step 3: Dip Each Bite
Dip each cinnamon roll piece into the custard mixture, coating evenly but not soaking through too much.
Tip: Don’t over-soak — you want a custardy exterior, not soggy dough.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown
In a skillet or non-stick pan over medium heat:
- Melt a bit of butter or oil .
- Add the dipped cinnamon roll bites in batches — don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes per side , until golden brown and slightly crisp.
Remove and place on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Drizzle With Icing
Once cooled slightly, drizzle the included icing over the top.
Or make a quick glaze by mixing:
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Stir until smooth and pourable.
Step 6: Serve Warm & Crispy
Serve immediately while still warm and soft.
They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the pan — every bite is a mix of custard-cooked crunch and cinnamon roll sweetness.
🍯 Serving Suggestions
- With a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt on the side.
- Stack on a platter with fresh fruit skewers for balance.
- Try them with a drizzle of salted caramel or chocolate sauce .
- Pair with strong coffee, chai, or orange juice .
- Wrap extras in foil for brunch-on-the-go .
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store cooled bites in an airtight container for up to 3 days .
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked cinnamon roll pieces in ziplock bags for up to 2 months . Dip and cook as desired.
- Make Ahead: Prep the custard mixture and keep chilled — dip and fry when ready.
- Reheating: Warm in toaster oven or microwave (with a damp paper towel) for best results.
✅ Expert Tips for Success
- Use room temperature cinnamon rolls — they absorb custard better.
- Don’t skip letting them rest after cooking — this helps the centers firm slightly.
- Want extra richness? Dip the cooked bites in melted butter and cinnamon sugar before serving.
- Swap rolls with canned biscuit dough and fill with cinnamon sugar for homemade version.
- Make it cheesecake-style : Add a cube of cream cheese to the center before frying.
🧠 Nutritional Highlights
While definitely a treat, these bites offer some fun perks:
- Cinnamon supports digestion and metabolism .
- Egg and milk custard adds protein and essential vitamins.
- Sugar gives instant energy — great for active mornings.
- Enjoy one or two per serving — especially with a side of fruit or tea.
📝 Final Thoughts
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites prove that sometimes the best recipes come from combining two things you already love — cinnamon rolls and French toast — into one irresistible dish.
With their crispy edges, warm spice notes, and gooey center, they’re the kind of breakfast snack that brings smiles, second helpings, and maybe even a little happy dance at the table.
So grab your skillet, crack open that can of cinnamon rolls, and get ready to dip, fry, and drizzle your way to brunch heaven — one golden, sugary bite at a time!
