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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are my go-to treat whenever I want something warm and nostalgic for weekend breakfasts or brunch parties. They deliver the soft gooey goodness of classic cinnamon rolls with the crispy rich flavor of French toast and come together in minutes with everyday ingredients.
I love how simple this is. I first tried these roll-ups when I was craving cinnamon rolls but had no patience. Now my family loves helping to sprinkle the sugar and roll them up on lazy mornings.
Ingredients
- Soft sandwich bread: Delivers a tender bite and holds together best when rolled. Choose the freshest loaf you can find
- Unsalted butter: Provides rich flavor on the inside and helps everything brown beautifully. Let it come to room temperature for easy spreading
- Granulated sugar: Essential for that gooey cinnamon swirl inside. Standard white sugar caramelizes just right
- Ground cinnamon: Gives authentic warmth. Use fresh spices for the most vibrant aroma
- Eggs and milk: Blend into a custardy batter that transforms the bread into French toast. Whole milk tastes best
- Vanilla extract: Boosts the bakery-fresh flavor. A splash makes a big difference
- Butter for frying: Gives each roll-up golden crispy edges. Use real butter for texture and taste
- Cinnamon sugar coating: Recreates the flavor of a true cinnamon roll. Mix fresh each time for maximum crunch
- Maple syrup or cream cheese glaze: Turns these into an extra special treat. Choose real pure syrup if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Flatten the Bread:
- Use a rolling pin or the back of a spoon to gently smooth each slice of bread until very thin. This helps them roll up tightly and hold their shape in the pan
- Buttery Cinnamon and Rolling:
- Spread softened unsalted butter on each slice all the way to the edges. In a small bowl mix together sugar and ground cinnamon then sprinkle the entire surface generously. Gently roll each slice up into a snug log pinching to seal so it holds together during cooking
- Prepare the French Toast Batter:
- In a shallow bowl whisk together eggs milk and vanilla extract until completely combined and no streaks remain. This mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy for the fluffiest finish
- Dip and Fry:
- Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Dip each roll-up quickly into the egg batter making sure it is just coated not soggy. Lay into the hot skillet seam side down and cook for about three minutes per side turning with tongs until all sides are evenly golden and crisp
- Cinnamon Sugar Finish:
- While still warm toss each cooked roll gently in extra cinnamon sugar so a sweet crust forms. Serve right away and drizzle with maple syrup or a quick cream cheese glaze for the full effect
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The way the cinnamon sugar melts into the bread while frying is my favorite part. My kids always argue over who gets the crispiest edges and I have to admit I sneak a few right from the pan for myself. There is something so comforting about seeing these golden rolls on the table on a rainy Sunday morning.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to reheat pop them in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat which brings back the crispy edge. To freeze, arrange cooled roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have classic sandwich bread try brioche or challah for extra richness. Dairy free milk and plant based butters work well here if needed. If you are out of vanilla extract, a hint of almond extract gives a subtle twist. Try turbinado sugar in place of white sugar for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a bowl of fresh berries or whipped cream for an easy brunch. Dip in warm apple sauce or chocolate ganache for a dessert style treat. These also stack well on a platter for party buffets and stay warm under a towel.
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These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups make mornings extra special and are worth every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other bread types?
Yes, soft sandwich bread is preferred for easy rolling, but you can use brioche or challah for richer flavor.
- → How do I keep the roll-ups from unrolling?
After spreading butter and cinnamon sugar, roll them tightly and press gently to seal the edge.
- → Is it necessary to use cream cheese glaze?
It's optional—maple syrup, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of glaze all complement the flavors well.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can prep the roll-ups and refrigerate them, but fry just before serving for the best texture.
- → What’s the secret to evenly golden roll-ups?
Dip each roll-up briefly in the egg mixture and cook over medium heat, turning for even browning.