If you’re on the hunt for a dish that feels indulgent yet easy to make, look no further than Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites. This recipe takes the best elements of two beloved breakfast staples—gooey cinnamon rolls and classic French toast—and combines them into a bite-sized, golden-brown treat. Perfect for brunches, holiday mornings, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort, these bites are rich in flavor, simple to prepare, and guaranteed to disappear fast once served.
Why You’ll Love These Bites
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Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
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Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples plus a can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls.
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Kid-Friendly: Sweet, soft, and fun-sized—what’s not to love?
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Perfect for Entertaining: Serve them up on a platter with powdered sugar and maple syrup for a crowd-pleaser.
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Customizable: You can add nuts, cream cheese drizzle, or even fresh fruit.
Now, let’s dive into every detail you need to perfect this crave-worthy breakfast dish.
Ingredients (with U.S. Cup Measurements)
These ingredients are simple, easy to find, and may already be in your kitchen:
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1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls (usually 8-count, includes icing)
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
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Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
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Maple syrup or icing (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Directions
Stage 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Start by opening the can of cinnamon rolls and setting the icing packet aside—you’ll use that for a finishing drizzle later. On a cutting board, slice each cinnamon roll into bite-sized pieces. Ideally, each roll should be cut into quarters or sixths depending on size.
Tip: Use a serrated knife or kitchen scissors for clean cuts.
Stage 2: Make the French Toast Custard
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
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2 large eggs
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1/4 cup milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
This mixture is the same classic base used for French toast, designed to soak into bread—or in this case, cinnamon dough—for that soft and custardy center with a crisp, golden edge.
Stage 3: Coat the Cinnamon Roll Pieces
Dip each piece of cut cinnamon roll into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s well coated on all sides. Let any excess drip off.
You want to avoid soaking them too long, which could make them soggy. A quick dip and flip will do the trick.
Stage 4: Cook the Bites
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once melted and foaming, place the coated cinnamon roll bites in the skillet in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook each piece for 2–3 minutes on each side, flipping until all sides are golden brown and fully cooked. The outside should be slightly crisp while the inside remains soft and fluffy.
Note: You may need to cook in batches. Add more butter between batches if needed to prevent sticking.
Stage 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the finished bites to a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle with the reserved icing from the cinnamon rolls or warm maple syrup. Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar for that bakery-style look.
Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Prep & Nutrition Facts
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: 20 minutes
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Servings: 4
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Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
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Use a nonstick skillet or seasoned cast-iron pan to prevent the bites from sticking.
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Whole milk works best for a rich, custard-like coating, but you can substitute almond, oat, or low-fat milk if needed.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures even browning and avoids sogginess.
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Add extra flavor by mixing a pinch of nutmeg into the egg mixture or topping with chopped nuts.
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Keep warm in the oven at 200°F if serving a crowd and cooking in batches.
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Reheat leftovers in a toaster oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
Make-Ahead and Storage
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Make Ahead: You can cut the cinnamon rolls and prepare the egg mixture the night before. Store separately and assemble/cook in the morning.
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave (30 seconds) or air fryer (at 350°F for 2-3 minutes) to revive that crispy texture.
Delicious Variations
Want to elevate your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites even more? Try one of these fun and tasty twists:
Cream Cheese Stuffed
Pipe a small amount of sweetened cream cheese inside each cinnamon roll bite before coating in egg. It melts into a gooey center that tastes like cheesecake French toast.
Nutty Crunch
Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the skillet as the bites cook. They’ll toast along with the bites and add a delightful crunch.
Fruity Version
Top with fresh berries, caramelized bananas, or a spoonful of raspberry preserves for a fruit-forward finish.
Chocolate Drizzle
Swap the icing or syrup for a warm drizzle of Nutella or melted dark chocolate.
Pairing Suggestions
These bites are amazing on their own but even better when served as part of a full breakfast or brunch spread. Here are some ideas:
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With Scrambled Eggs and Bacon: Add protein to balance the sweetness.
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With Fresh Fruit and Yogurt: Brightens up the plate and adds freshness.
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With Iced Coffee or Lattes: Because cinnamon and coffee are a dream team.
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As a Dessert: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel.
Perfect For Any Occasion
While these bites feel like a weekend treat, they’re fast enough for busy weekday mornings too. Here are just a few occasions they’re perfect for:
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Birthday Breakfasts
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Christmas Morning
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Mother’s Day Brunch
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Potluck Brunch Parties
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Valentine’s Day Breakfast-in-Bed
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Sunday Morning Lazy Breakfasts
What Readers Are Saying
“This is the best shortcut breakfast I’ve ever made—super easy and everyone loved them!”
“I made these for my kids and they were gone in minutes. New weekend tradition!”
“Totally addicting. I served them with cream cheese icing and berries. Perfection.”
Final Thoughts
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites prove that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make something unforgettable. With minimal effort and maximum reward, they’re a sweet, fluffy, and slightly crispy morning masterpiece that works just as well for holidays as it does for everyday mornings.
Whether you’re looking to delight brunch guests or just treat yourself, this recipe brings cozy bakery vibes to your home in under 30 minutes.