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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the answer to weekend breakfast cravings when you want something special but not complicated. The fun bite-sized pieces come out golden and pillowy every time offering the warm comfort of cinnamon rolls mixed with the classic flavors of French toast. It is a morning treat my family cheers for especially when there is not much time and everyone wants something cozy and sweet.
When I made these on a busy winter morning I was shocked at how fast my kids gathered at the table. The sweetness and the buttery finish makes these bites disappear in seconds.
Ingredients
- Refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing: using these gets the layered cinnamon flavor without hassle and pre-packaged dough ensures light fluffy bites every time look for ones that come with a separate icing tub
- Large eggs: help bind everything together and give that classic French toast custardy texture use eggs that are firm and have bright yolks for best results
- Milk: to loosen the egg mixture and keep the bites tender whole milk adds richness if you have it
- Vanilla extract: brings out the sweet notes and enhances the cinnamon aroma pick pure vanilla for depth
- Ground cinnamon: adds extra warmth to each bite freshly ground if possible makes a difference
- Butter: for frying the bites to golden perfection unsalted is best so you control the salt level
- Powdered sugar: for a dusting of sweetness and a pretty finish optional but fun especially for guests
- Maple syrup or included icing: for drizzling optional either adds a gooey finish that ties it all together
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls:
- Open your can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and separate each roll on a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut every roll into four equal quarters. This ensures the bites will be crisp on the edges and soft inside.
- Mix the Custard:
- In a medium-sized bowl whisk together the eggs milk vanilla extract and ground cinnamon. Whisk until everything is completely smooth and you see no streaks of egg.
- Dip the Rolls:
- Take each cinnamon roll quarter and thoroughly dip into the mixture turning to coat all sides. Let a little excess drip off so the bites do not get soggy but are fully soaked.
- Cook to Golden Perfection:
- Set a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add butter and wait until it is melted and bubbling slightly. Place the coated bites in the skillet making sure they do not touch each other. Cook them on the first side for about three minutes until they are a deep golden color then flip and repeat until all sides are cooked and the centers feel springy.
- Serve and Top:
- Carefully transfer the finished French toast bites to a serving plate. For an extra treat dust with powdered sugar and then drizzle with your choice of maple syrup or the included cinnamon roll icing. Serve while still warm for best results.
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What I love most is the smell of cinnamon drifting through the kitchen and the look on my daughter’s face when she sneaks the first bite. The best memories are often made on mornings just like this with sticky hands and laughter at the table.
Storage Tips
Store leftover French toast bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat pop them in a toaster oven or microwave just until warmed through. They are still tasty even without extra topping but a quick drizzle of icing revives them beautifully.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have whole milk use any milk or even a milk alternative like almond or oat. Egg substitutes work well if you need a dairy free or vegan version. For extra flavor try adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping the vanilla for almond extract.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with small cups of syrup for dunking or a bowl of fresh berries to brighten things up. For brunch line the bites up with other breakfast favorites like scrambled eggs or crispy bacon so everyone can build a plate that suits them.
Cultural and Historical Context
French toast is a classic way to use up leftover bread but this recipe takes modern shortcuts and adds a playful twist. Cinnamon rolls are a comforting treat in North America and by turning them into French toast you get the best of both breakfast worlds.
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Whether it is for a cozy breakfast or a special brunch these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites always rise to the occasion. They are just the thing to turn an ordinary morning into something memorable.