Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites — Easy Sweet Breakfast Treat

introduction

My name is Amilie Bourgoie, and I am passionate about creating meaningful experiences through creativity, dedication, and authenticity. I started sharing small kitchen wins and comfort-food ideas that made mornings brighter. Today I bring you Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, a playful mashup that turns store-bought cinnamon rolls into small, pillowy breakfast treats. Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites deliver warm cinnamon, sweet glaze notes, and a soft custardy interior in every bite.

People search for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites because they want an easy, impressive breakfast that feels special. They want a recipe that works on busy mornings and at weekend brunches. In this article you will learn why this recipe works, what ingredients and swaps to use, step-by-step directions, serving ideas, storage tips, smart variations, and answers to common questions. You will also find links to helpful related recipes and breakfast inspiration.

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Table of Contents

Table of Contents

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why make this recipe

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are quick, comforting, and crowd-pleasing. They combine two favorites — classic cinnamon rolls and French toast — into a single easy dish. The taste hits the sweet-and-spiced notes many love. The texture balances a tender interior and slightly crisp edges.

This recipe suits several motivations. If you want an easy breakfast that looks homemade, Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites fit the bill. If you want to repurpose leftover cinnamon rolls, this recipe saves food and time. If you need a portable brunch item for kids or guests, these bites work perfectly. People who worry about complicated steps will find this method simple and forgiving.

Common pain points include over-soaking, resulting in soggy bites, or underbaking, leaving raw pockets. This recipe uses short soak times and a hot oven to avoid both problems. It also lets you control sweetness and toppings, so you can make a lighter or richer version. For more breakfast ideas that pair well with these bites, see this breakfast category on Simply Recipes breakfast recipes and a classic French toast guide at Simply Recipes french toast.

how to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

To make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites start with good-quality cinnamon roll dough. Cut the rolls into uniform bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, and a touch of cinnamon into a smooth custard. Dip each piece briefly; do not soak them for long. The goal is light coating, not a soggy sponge.

Arrange the coated bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Add a little melted butter on top so the bites bake golden and rich. Bake at a steady 375°F for 15–20 minutes. Watch the edges for a soft golden color and a set center. Remove the tray and let the bites rest for a couple of minutes so the custard firms slightly.

Key techniques matter: use room-temperature eggs and milk to make a seamless custard. Cut even pieces so baking time stays consistent. Avoid a long soak to keep textures balanced. If you want crispier edges, finish under the broiler for 30–60 seconds while watching closely. For a uniform glaze finish, dust the bites with powdered sugar just before serving or drizzle warm maple syrup.

Use the Simply Recipes breakfast recipes page for more plating ideas and the bread section for tips on handling dough if you want to make homemade cinnamon rolls first.

Ingredients

Cinnamon roll dough, Eggs, Milk, Vanilla extract, Cinnamon, Butter, Maple syrup (for serving), Powdered sugar (for serving), Toppings (e.g., whipped cream, berries)

Each ingredient plays a role. Cinnamon roll dough provides the sweet, spiced base and built-in swirl of cinnamon and sugar. Eggs and milk make the custardy coating that gives French toast its soft interior. Vanilla enhances sweetness without adding sugar. Additional cinnamon layers the spice. Butter produces browning and flavor. Maple syrup and powdered sugar finish the bites with classic sweetness and shine.

Swaps and quality tips: use whole milk for a richer custard or swap for almond milk for a dairy-free option. Choose store-bought cinnamon roll dough for speed or homemade dough for better flavor and control. Use real vanilla extract, not imitation, for the cleanest taste. If you like extra spice, add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. For a lower-sugar option, skip powdered sugar and serve with fresh berries instead.

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut the cinnamon roll dough into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
4. Dip each cinnamon roll piece into the egg mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
5. Place the coated pieces on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Melt some butter and drizzle it over the cinnamon roll bites before baking.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and your favorite toppings.

For best results, cut uniform pieces and dip quickly so they do not turn soggy. Space the bites so hot air circulates. Check at 15 minutes and rotate the pan if your oven heats unevenly. If you add glaze before baking, expect browning to happen faster and keep a close eye on the tray.

how to serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites warm for the best texture. Arrange them on a platter and dust with powdered sugar. Offer warm maple syrup on the side and a bowl of fresh berries for contrast. A spoonful of whipped cream adds decadence for special occasions.

Pair the bites with crisp bacon or maple sausage for a savory counterpoint. A fruit salad or yogurt parfait adds brightness and balances sweetness. Serve them at brunch, holiday mornings, weekend gatherings, or as a sweet snack for kids. For a coffee pairing, a latte or spiced chai complements the cinnamon notes nicely.

If you want to make a shareable centerpiece, pile the bites in a bundt pan, drizzle warmed glaze, and pass around. For individual servings, place three to five bites per plate with a small ramekin of syrup. See Simply Recipes’ desserts collection for ideas on sweet toppings and presentation desserts.

how to store Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Store cooled Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 6–8 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving for long; it makes the bites soft and sometimes rubbery. If you prefer faster reheating, toast them in a toaster oven for 3–5 minutes.

To freeze, place cooled bites on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm, about 1 hour. Transfer the frozen bites to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 12–15 minutes or until warm and golden.

Practice food safety: refrigerate within two hours of baking. If fillings include dairy-based glazes, consume sooner. Label containers with the date so you use older items first.

tips to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Use room-temperature eggs and milk to help the custard adhere smoothly. Cut even pieces for consistent cooking. Don’t over-soak; a brief dip prevents sogginess while still delivering custardy insides. Use melted butter both in the egg mixture for flavor and drizzled on top for browning. Test one bite at the minimum time to check doneness. For extra crunch, toss the coated pieces in a mix of panko and cinnamon before baking. Chill the coated bites for 10 minutes before baking if you want a firmer shape and slightly crisper exterior.

If you make the cinnamon roll dough from scratch, chill and slice with a sharp serrated knife to preserve the swirl. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk and cut the number of cinnamon rolls per serving.

variation (if any)

• Stuffed Centers: Press a small cube of cream cheese or a piece of apple into the center of each dough piece before dipping. The filling melts and creates a lovely surprise.
• Glazed Bites: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to make a thick glaze and drizzle it over warm bites for a classic cinnamon roll finish.
• French Toast Casserole Style: Layer larger cinnamon roll pieces in a baking dish, pour the custard over, and bake until puffed for a shareable bake. This creates a soft, pull-apart texture.
• Savory-Sweet Twist: Add a pinch of kosher salt and top with crispy prosciutto or bacon for a salty counterbalance.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water per egg) and dairy-free butter. Choose vegan cinnamon rolls to keep the flavor.

For ideas that lean into casserole-style breakfasts, browse Simply Recipes’ savory breakfast inspirations at breakfast recipes.

FAQs

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites make mornings feel special with minimal fuss. They transform simple cinnamon roll dough into small, custardy bites that bake quickly and travel well. Serve them warm with maple syrup and berries for a balanced plate. Try the variations to match your mood or occasion.

For a similar recipe and another take on these sweet bites check this reliable version from RecipeTin Eats: Cinnamon French Toast Bites – RecipeTin Eats. For a family-friendly twist and presentation ideas, see this helpful post at The Fervent Mama: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites (The Fervent Mama). If you want a casserole-style approach, Mommy’s Kitchen shows a baked cinnamon roll French toast that you can adapt: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake — Mommy’s Kitchen.