What’s better than cinnamon rolls? Or French toast? Combining the two into these magical Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups! Imagine soft, fluffy bread rolled up with a gooey cinnamon-sugar filling, then dipped in a luscious egg mixture and fried to golden perfection. Finish them off with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze, and you’ve got yourself a treat that’s perfect for lazy weekends or special breakfasts.
I created this recipe one Sunday morning when my family couldn’t decide between cinnamon rolls and French toast. Why choose? I thought. Let’s do both! These roll-ups are bite-sized, fun to eat, and perfect for little hands or serving at brunch gatherings.
The best part? They’re easy to make and use simple pantry staples. Whether you’re hosting guests, treating yourself, or trying to impress your loved ones, these roll-ups deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, they’re endlessly customizable—you can add a hint of nutmeg, swap in your favorite bread, or even stuff them with fruit or chocolate!
Every time I make these, my kitchen fills with the warm, cozy scent of cinnamon, instantly making the day feel special. Trust me, your family and friends will thank you for bringing this sweet and satisfying dish to the table. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!
Recipe Resume: Todd Wilbur Style
- These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups bring together the best of two breakfast classics in one easy-to-eat package.
- A buttery, cinnamon-sugar filling melts into soft bread, which is fried to golden perfection.
- The cream cheese glaze adds just the right amount of tangy sweetness, elevating each bite.
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert, these roll-ups are a crowd-pleaser you can whip up in no time.
Why These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups?
- Fun & Unique: A creative twist on two classic breakfast favorites.
- Kid-Approved: Perfectly portioned, mess-free, and irresistibly delicious.
- Customizable: Swap fillings, bread, or toppings to suit your taste.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick prep make these a go-to recipe.
What You Need for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
For the Roll-Ups
- 8 slices of white or brioche bread (crusts removed)
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For Frying
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp milk (plus more if needed)
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
- Prepare the Bread: Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice of bread. Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each slice.
- Make the Filling: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the buttered side of each bread slice. Roll up the bread tightly, seam-side down.
- Mix the Egg Coating: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Cook the Roll-Ups: Heat butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, ensuring all sides are coated. Place them seam-side down in the skillet and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 1–2 minutes per side.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.
- Serve: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the warm roll-ups and serve immediately. Enjoy every gooey, cinnamon-filled bite!
Tips for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
- Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread holds its shape better and absorbs the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
- Keep the Heat Low: Cook the roll-ups on medium heat to ensure they’re golden brown and cooked through without burning.
Substitutions and Variations
- Healthier Option: Use whole-grain bread and reduce the sugar in the filling.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add a thin layer of Nutella before sprinkling the cinnamon sugar.
- Fruit Filling: Add thinly sliced bananas, apples, or strawberries inside the roll-ups.
Make a Healthier Version
- Swap white bread for whole-wheat bread or a gluten-free alternative.
- Use reduced-fat cream cheese for the glaze and reduce sugar by substituting with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
- Fry with a light spray of cooking oil instead of butter to cut down on fat.
Closing: Todd Wilbur Style
And there you have it! These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are the perfect blend of fun, flavor, and indulgence. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy breakfast or wowing a brunch crowd, this recipe is a winner every time. Don’t forget to share your creations with us—and check out our other mouthwatering recipes for more inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Roll them up and store in the fridge, then cook just before serving. - What type of bread works best?
Brioche or white sandwich bread works best for its softness and flexibility. - Can I freeze the roll-ups?
Yes! Freeze them after rolling and thaw before cooking. - What other toppings can I use?
Try maple syrup, powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. - Can I make these dairy-free?
Use a plant-based butter and milk alternative, and skip the cream cheese glaze. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm them in a skillet or oven to restore crispness. - Can I use store-bought cinnamon roll dough?
While possible, it’s not ideal for this recipe’s structure and flavor. - How do I prevent them from unrolling?
Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in the skillet first. - What spices can I add for extra flavor?
Nutmeg, cardamom, or a pinch of cloves pair wonderfully with cinnamon. - Can I skip the glaze?
Sure! They’re still delicious with just a dusting of powdered sugar. - How many roll-ups does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 8 roll-ups, perfect for 2–4 servings. - What’s the serving suggestion?
Serve with fresh fruit and a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate breakfast experience.