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If you want to transform your classic French toast into fun handheld bites these French Toast Roll-Ups have everything you crave crunchy edges a gooey middle and a hint of cinnamon sugar warmth in every bite. I love making these for special breakfasts or when we need something quick and cozy on a weekend morning.
My niece and nephew always ask for these whenever they spend the night. The first time I served them everyone ended up sneaking extras straight from the plate — no one waited for the syrup
Ingredients
- Soft white bread: this creates the classic soft interior and rolls up without tearing choose the freshest loaf for best results
- Unsalted butter, melted: this brings richness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the bread pick good quality European style butter if possible
- Granulated sugar: for sweetness and to give the roll-ups that classic cinnamon crunch
- Brown sugar: adds depth and caramel flavor to the spread use dark or light depending on your preference
- Ground cinnamon: the signature flavor choose a fresh fragrant variety for maximum impact
- Large eggs: essential for coating each roll-up to achieve that custardy French toast finish
- Milk: this helps thin out the egg mixture use whole milk for richer results or any type you have
- Butter for cooking: keeps the roll-ups golden and prevents sticking
- Maple syrup for serving: adds finishing sweetness choose pure maple syrup for the best flavor
Instructions
- Prep the Filling:
- Combine melted butter granulated sugar brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a bowl Stir until you get a smooth spreadable paste as this is what infuses every roll with flavor
- Flatten and Fill:
- Take each bread slice and press it flat with your palm or a rolling pin Spread a thin even layer of the cinnamon butter mixture from edge to edge Roll the bread up tightly so there are no gaps
- Mix the Egg Wash:
- In a shallow bowl whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth and well combined This is your classic French toast batter
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate small bowl This will give you the warm spicy finish on your roll-ups
- Dip and Cook:
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat Quickly dip each bread roll into the egg mixture coating all sides but do not soak Place each roll seam side down in the pan so it seals Cook for about two to three minutes per side turning as needed until each roll is golden brown and crisp all over
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar:
- While still warm immediately roll each cooked French toast roll-up in the cinnamon sugar mixture so it sticks perfectly
- Serve Warm:
- Serve the roll-ups straight from the skillet with a side of maple syrup for dipping or drizzling
Every time I make these for family weekends I watch the kids line up in the kitchen waiting for the next batch to come out of the pan. Sometimes the grown-ups end up fighting for the last roll-up too!
Storage Tips
French Toast Roll-Ups are best eaten warm but you can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days To reheat just pop them in a toaster oven or air fryer for a few minutes which brings back their crispiness
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the white bread for brioche or whole wheat for a more complex flavor Try using plant based butter and milk if you are making this dairy free For those who love a filling spread a little cream cheese or a fruit jam inside before rolling up
Serving Suggestions
Serve these with a dusting of powdered sugar or a bowl of fresh berries for a bright fresh contrast They pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa You can even stack them for a fun breakfast tower
Cultural and Seasonal Notes
French toast exists in many cultures so feel free to put your own spin on this idea In the fall I sometimes add a dash of nutmeg and top with apple compote In summer a dollop of whipped cream and sliced strawberries makes it festive
Seasonal Adaptations
Use eggnog instead of milk in the batter for a holiday twist Add a grated apple or chopped dried cranberries inside for autumn flavor Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice around Halloween
Success Stories
One chilly Saturday I made these for a kids slumber party and they disappeared in minutes Every parent wanted the recipe and the kids snapped photos for their group chat
Freezer Meal Conversion
If you want to make these ahead assemble and cook the roll-ups then freeze on a tray Once frozen transfer them to a bag and keep for up to two months Reheat straight from the freezer in the oven for a quick treat
Enjoy these roll-ups warm and fresh for the best texture. They always bring a little extra joy to a weekend breakfast spread.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use whole wheat bread for roll-ups?
Yes, whole wheat or other soft sandwich breads can be used. Ensure the bread is soft for easier rolling.
- → Is it possible to add fillings like fruit or chocolate?
Absolutely! Thin slices of banana, strawberries, or a sprinkle of chocolate chips work well inside before rolling.
- → How do I keep roll-ups from unraveling during cooking?
Place them seam side down in the skillet first and avoid moving them too much until they set on that side.
- → Can the roll-ups be made ahead of time?
They are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep and refrigerate before dipping and cooking to save time.
- → What's the best way to serve these roll-ups?
Serve warm and freshly coated with cinnamon sugar, alongside maple syrup for dipping or drizzling.