There’s a special joy in savoring breakfast foods that bring back sweet memories. When I first tried these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups, I was instantly reminded of cozy Sunday mornings spent with family, the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the house. Imagine biting into a crispy roll that brings together the soft, gooey indulgence of cinnamon rolls and the warmth of classic French toast—all in one delicious package.
These roll-ups aren’t just a tasty treat; they’re a quick and easy solution for busy mornings or leisurely brunches with friends. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these delightful breakfast bites that are sure to impress. Whether you serve them drizzled with a luscious cream cheese icing or simply dusted with powdered sugar, you’ll find that each bite offers a nostalgic blast of flavor that makes mornings feel a little more special. Ready to dive into breakfast bliss? Let’s get started!
Why are French Toast Roll-Ups so popular?
Nostalgic Experience: These roll-ups bring back childhood memories of cozy breakfasts, making them a heartwarming choice for any morning.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have this breakfast ready in a flash, perfect for busy mornings.
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet cinnamon filling combined with a crispy exterior creates a delightful explosion of taste in every bite.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with nuts or fruits, allowing you to tailor this dish to your family’s preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family brunch or a weekend treat with friends, these roll-ups are sure to impress, leaving everyone asking for more!
Elevate your breakfast game and check out our tips for serving these mouthwatering treats to perfection.
French Toast Roll-Ups Ingredients
For the Roll-Ups
- Bread – Provides structure and absorbs flavors; use white or whole grain for the best results.
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Light Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and depth; can be replaced with granulated sugar for a lighter flavor.
- Cinnamon – Delivers that warm and spicy kick; pumpkin spice can be used for a unique twist.
- Eggs – Essential for binding the roll-ups together; flax eggs work as a vegan alternative (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
- Milk – Provides moisture for the custard mixture; choose any dairy or plant-based milk per your preference.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, making the roll-ups irresistible.
For the Icing
- Cream Cheese – Offers a creamy texture and richness; soften it to ensure easy mixing.
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the icing; adds the desirable sweetness to contrast the spiced filling.
- Milk – Adjust to achieve your desired icing thickness; a splash here and there can bring the right consistency.
Get ready to experience breakfast bliss with these delightful French Toast Roll-Ups!
How to Make French Toast Roll-Ups
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Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon until the mixture is well-blended. This will be your irresistible filling!
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Prepare the Bread: Cut the crusts off each slice of bread. Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice slightly and spread the cinnamon butter mixture evenly before rolling them up tightly.
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Whisk the Custard: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined. This custard will help create a delightful exterior.
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Dip the Rolls: Lightly dip each roll into the egg mixture, ensuring they’re coated but not soaked. Too much moisture can make them soggy!
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Cook the Roll-Ups: In a non-stick skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Fry the rolls until they are golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
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Coat in Sugar: In a separate bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon. Once cooked, roll each warm roll in this mixture to coat completely for a sweet finish.
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Make the Icing: For the icing, mix softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the warm roll-ups or serve alongside as a dip.
Optional: Top with fresh fruit or additional cinnamon sugar for an extra touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups?
Treat your loved ones to a breakfast feast that pairs perfectly with these delightful roll-ups, making every morning feel special.
- Maple Syrup: A classic addition that enhances sweetness and adds a lovely drizzle to every bite.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, cinnamon flavors. They add a burst of color and nutrition!
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, fresh whipped cream takes the indulgence up a notch, making the roll-ups feel extra luxurious. You can even infuse it with vanilla for added flavor.
- Bacon or Sausage: The crispy, savory elements of bacon or sausage complement the sweetness of the roll-ups, creating a well-rounded breakfast experience.
- Fruit Salad: A dish of mixed fruits can brighten your plate, offering a refreshing crunch and a balance to the sweetness.
- Coffee or Latte: Sip on a warm cup of coffee or a rich latte to round out the meal, enhancing the cozy atmosphere of your breakfast table.
- Cream Cheese Icing Dip: Serve a side of your creamy icing for an indulgent, dunking experience that keeps everyone coming back for more!
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola offers a great texture contrast and can be sprinkled on top of the roll-ups for added dimension.
Let your breakfast spread shine with these delightful pairings!
Make Ahead Options
These French Toast Roll-Ups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the roll-ups up to 24 hours in advance, simply preparing and rolling them tightly before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain their delicious quality, ensure each roll is wrapped well to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just cook as directed in the recipe, frying them in a skillet until golden brown. This time-saving tip allows you to savor a delightful breakfast with minimal effort, turning busy mornings into a cozy culinary experience without the stress!
Expert Tips for Perfect French Toast Roll-Ups
• Be Gentle: Take care when rolling the bread to avoid tearing. A gentle touch helps maintain the integrity of the roll-ups.
• Avoid Sogginess: Dip the rolls briefly in the egg mixture; over-soaking can lead to a mushy texture that steals the delightful crisp.
• Cook in Batches: If making a large batch, cook the rolls in batches to ensure even browning and to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh cinnamon and quality bread. Stale bread will not absorb the custard mixture well.
• Customize Freely: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite fillings like chocolate chips or fruit to mix up the flavor profile of your French Toast Roll-Ups!
How to Store and Freeze French Toast Roll-Ups
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for a crispy texture, keeping the warmth and flavor intact.
Freezer: Wrap each roll-up individually in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy the deliciousness of French Toast Roll-Ups just like fresh!
Serving Fresh: While storing is fine, these roll-ups are best enjoyed fresh to savor the perfect blend of textures and flavors.
French Toast Roll-Ups Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these roll-ups your own with simple tweaks that will delight your taste buds!
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for an extra crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
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Fruity Twist: Incorporate fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries inside the roll-ups for a burst of juicy sweetness with every bite. You’ll love the freshness!
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Pumpkin Spice: Swap out the cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist that captures the essence of fall in each delicious roll.
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Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and choose plant-based milk for a delightful vegan treat.
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Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Mix in chocolate chips or use hazelnut spread in place of the cinnamon butter for a decadent chocolatey experience that’s simply irresistible.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon sugar mix for a surprising and delightful heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Maple Infusion: Replace the vanilla extract in the custard with maple extract for a warm, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon and sugar.
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Coconut Cravings: Try swapping regular milk with coconut milk or using shredded coconut in the filling for a tropical flavor that transports you to paradise.
French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe FAQs
What type of bread should I use for the roll-ups?
I recommend using white or whole grain bread for the best results, as both types provide great structure and absorb the flavors beautifully. It’s important to choose bread that’s not too thick to ensure easy rolling.
How should I store the French Toast Roll-Ups?
Store your French Toast Roll-Ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture and delicious flavor.
Can I freeze French Toast Roll-Ups?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each roll-up individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to reheat thoroughly.
What can I do if my roll-ups are soggy?
If your roll-ups turn out soggy, this often happens due to over-soaking in the egg mixture. For the perfect texture, dip them lightly and avoid letting them sit in the custard mixture for too long. If necessary, try cooking them longer at a slightly lower heat to achieve a golden-brown crisp.
Are these roll-ups suitable for allergies?
You can adapt these to suit dietary restrictions! For dairy-free options, use coconut oil instead of butter and almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. To make them vegan, substitute eggs with flax eggs by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg needed.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
The more the merrier! Elevate your roll-ups by adding chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, or even some berries such as blueberries or strawberries for a fruity twist. Just remember to keep the balance in flavors so they complement the cinnamon perfectly!
Irresistible French Toast Roll-Ups for a Cozy Breakfast Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon until well-blended.
- Cut the crusts off each slice of bread. Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice slightly and spread the cinnamon butter mixture evenly before rolling up tightly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined.
- Lightly dip each roll into the egg mixture, ensuring they’re coated but not soaked.
- Melt a tablespoon of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, and fry the rolls until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Mix together sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Roll each warm roll in this mixture to coat completely.
- For the icing, mix softened cream cheese, confectioners' sugar, and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the warm roll-ups or serve as a dip.