introduction
Since I was very young, cooking has always held a special place in my life. My name is Adam, and it was alongside my mother that I discovered the magic of flavors and homemade dishes. One weekend she taught me a fast way to turn canned cinnamon rolls into morning magic. That memory grew into this recipe for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites. This dish combines soft cinnamon rolls and custardy french toast for an easy brunch favorite.
People search for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites because they want fast, nostalgic breakfasts that still feel special. In this article you will learn what Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are, how to make them step by step, ingredient swaps, storage tips, and simple ways to serve them. You will also find variations and answers to common questions.
Table of Contents
why make this recipe
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites taste like a warm bakery treat. They are simple to pull together. The recipe uses just a few pantry staples and one can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls. That makes it ideal for busy mornings, last-minute brunches, or a weekend treat. The bites are soft inside and slightly golden outside. They deliver the sweet cinnamon flavor people love. If you want a recipe that cuts prep time, this one fits.
If you worry about complicated steps, this dish solves that. It removes the need to roll dough or make custard from scratch. You can serve it to kids, guests, or enjoy a quick solo breakfast. For more ideas on easy breakfast recipes, check the Simply Recipes breakfast collection at https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/breakfast/.
how to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Start with room-temperature eggs and milk. Cut each refrigerated cinnamon roll into quarters. Arrange the pieces snugly in a greased baking dish. Whisk the eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Pour the egg mixture over the cut rolls and press them down gently so they soak evenly. Let them sit for a few minutes if you want the custard to penetrate deeply. Bake at the temperature on the cinnamon roll package until the tops turn golden and set, usually 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool briefly. Drizzle the included icing over the warm bites. Serve while still soft and warm.
Key techniques matter. Cut rolls into even quarters so they bake uniformly. Don’t over-saturate the rolls. Too much liquid makes them soggy. Letting the cut pieces rest for a few minutes helps the center soak without falling apart. Watch the baking time closely. Ovens vary, so start checking at 12 minutes. The top should be golden and the center should set like a soft pudding. For baking tips and basic techniques, you can browse Simply Recipes’ baking category at https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/baking/.
Ingredients
1 can (12.4 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8 rolls)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Each ingredient plays a clear role. The canned cinnamon rolls add cinnamon, sugar, and a soft dough base. The eggs and milk form a light custard that soaks into the dough, giving french toast its tender texture. Vanilla adds warm aromatic notes. Use whole milk for a richer custard, or 2% for lighter results. Swap dairy milk with oat or almond milk for a dairy-free version, but expect a slightly different texture. If you want extra richness, add a tablespoon of melted butter to the egg mixture. For stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a touch of ground cinnamon over the top before baking. For more recipes that use simple pantry ingredients, see the eggs and dairy collection at https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/eggs/.
Directions
- Preheat your oven according to the cinnamon roll package instructions.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and place them in a greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cut cinnamon rolls, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Drizzle with the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls before serving. Enjoy your brunch!
For perfect results, use a shallow baking dish so the bites bake evenly. Grease the dish well to prevent sticking. If you like a slightly crisp top, broil for 30 to 60 seconds at the end, watching closely. Use the icing sparingly at first. You can add more at the table for a fresher finish. For dessert-style serving ideas, consult Simply Recipes’ desserts section at https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/desserts/.
how to serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Serve these bites warm for best texture. They pair well with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas. Add a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. A drizzle of maple syrup or warm caramel boosts the sweetness if you like it saucier. For savory contrast, offer a side of crispy bacon or turkey sausage. These bites work for casual breakfasts, holiday brunches, or coffee gatherings. They balance soft, custardy centers with sweet, cinnamon-forward flavor. For pairing ideas and brunch menus, check Simply Recipes’ brunch collection at https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/brunch/.
how to store Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8–10 minutes to restore some crispness. Microwaving works for a quick warm-up, but the texture will be softer. To freeze, place baked bites on a sheet pan to flash-freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes. Always cool completely before freezing to avoid ice crystals. Follow basic food safety: discard leftovers that sit at room temperature for more than two hours.
tips to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Use equal-sized pieces for even baking. Let the cut rolls rest in the egg mixture for 5 minutes to absorb more custard. If you like a firmer texture, reduce soaking time slightly. For golden tops, brush a little melted butter on the tops before baking. Avoid overbaking; the center should jiggle slightly like a set pudding. If the included icing is very thick, thin it with a teaspoon of milk for easier drizzling. For a richer version, fold a tablespoon of cream cheese into the icing before drizzling. For more bread-based ideas and techniques, visit the Simply Recipes bread section at https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/bread/.
variation (if any)
- Cinnamon French Toast Bites with fruit: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples or pears under the cut rolls before pouring the egg mixture. The fruit adds freshness and texture.
- Sticky pecan topping: Mix chopped toasted pecans with brown sugar and a little butter. Sprinkle over the top halfway through baking for a crunchy finish.
- Chocolate-stuffed bites: Place a small square of chocolate or a few chocolate chips in the center of each quarter before soaking. The chocolate melts into a dessert-like pocket.
- Savory twist: Omit the icing. Add a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of grated cheddar to the egg mix, and serve with ham for a brunch-savory take.
- Dairy-free option: Use a plant-based milk and a dairy-free cinnamon roll brand if you need a vegan-friendly breakfast.
Each variation keeps the same basic method. Swap one or two elements to suit taste or dietary needs.
FAQs
Can I use leftover homemade cinnamon rolls for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Yes. Leftover homemade cinnamon rolls work well. Cut them into quarters and follow the same method. Adjust soaking time if the rolls are stale or dry.
Can I make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites ahead of time?
You can assemble and refrigerate the dish up to 12 hours before baking. Cover tightly and bake from cold, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How do I prevent soggy Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Avoid over-soaking. Press pieces gently into the egg mixture, but don’t let them sit too long if you want firmer bites. Bake until just set and golden.
Conclusion
If you want more ideas similar to this recipe, see the Cinnamon French Toast Bites recipe at RecipeTin Eats for another take on this breakfast favorite: Cinnamon French Toast Bites – RecipeTin Eats (https://www.recipetineats.com/cinnamon-french-toast-bites/). For a family-tested version that uses canned cinnamon rolls, check Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites at The Fervent Mama: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites (https://theferventmama.com/cinnamon-roll-french-toast-bites/).
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Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful brunch treat that combines soft cinnamon rolls and a custardy French toast mixture, perfect for quick and special mornings.
Ingredients
- 1 can (12.4 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (8 rolls)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven according to the cinnamon roll package instructions.
- Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters and place them in a greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the egg mixture over the cut cinnamon rolls, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Drizzle with the icing that comes with the cinnamon rolls before serving. Enjoy your brunch!
Notes
Use equal-sized pieces for even baking. Let the cut rolls rest in the egg mixture for 5 minutes to absorb more custard. If you like a firmer texture, reduce the soaking time slightly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American