Name: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tube (12 oz / ~340 g) refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing packet included); 2 large eggs; 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk (any kind); 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking); Powdered sugar; Maple syrup

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the sweet, comforting aroma of cinnamon rolls but crave something a little more playful and perfect for dunking into syrup, then you are going to fall head over heels for these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites. Imagine bite-sized pockets of dough soaked in a creamy, vanilla-spiked custard and then pan-fried until golden and crisp, all drizzled with that luscious cinnamon sugar icing from the original rolls. Whether for a weekend brunch, a cozy breakfast with loved ones, or an indulgent snack, these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites bring all the warmth and joy of a cinnamon roll with a fun, french toast twist that’s hard to resist.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create magic. Each component plays an essential role, whether it’s the soft, sweet cinnamon roll dough that forms the base or the creamy custard mixture that gives these bites their irresistible fluffiness and flavor.

Cinnamon roll dough: Using refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing included means you get both dough and that signature sweet drizzle all in one, saving time and effort.
Large eggs: Eggs provide the rich custard coating that soaks into the dough, helping the bites hold their shape while adding a custardy softness inside.
Milk: A splash of milk balances the egg mixture and ensures the batter is light and creamy—feel free to use any type of milk you prefer.
Pure vanilla extract: This adds a fragrant floral sweetness that complements the cinnamon and enhances every bite.
Ground cinnamon: A small pinch to boost the cinnamon flavor already in the rolls and deepen that warm, cozy spice.
Unsalted butter: For cooking, it adds a golden, flavorful crust and richness without overpowering the delicate flavors.
Optional toppings: Powdered sugar or maple syrup for that final flourish and sweetness boost.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Step 1: Prepare the rolls

Start by opening your tube of cinnamon roll dough and slicing each individual roll into quarters. These small pieces will cook quickly and make for perfect bite-size treats. Setting them aside means you can focus on the custard next without any fuss.

Step 2: Make the custard mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until everything is fully combined and smooth. This custard is what transforms the dough pieces from simple rolls into a luscious French toast experience, with creamy, spiced layers inside.

Step 3: Coat the cinnamon roll bites

Gently dip the cut cinnamon roll pieces into the custard mixture and toss to make sure every surface is coated. Treat them delicately so the bites stay intact but soak up just enough of the custard to become soft and flavorful.

Step 4: Cook to golden perfection

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt the butter until it’s foaming. Place your custard-coated dough cubes on the pan in a single layer, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them and turn occasionally so they develop that perfect golden brown crust without burning.

Step 5: Finish and serve

Before serving, warm the icing packet from the cinnamon roll dough just for a few seconds in the microwave to loosen it up, then generously drizzle it over your warm bites. You can finish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra indulgence. These little bites are best enjoyed immediately, fresh and warm!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Garnishes

While the icing from the cinnamon roll dough is sweet and creamy, finishing touches like a light dusting of powdered sugar add a snowy visual contrast and an extra hint of sweetness that melts on your tongue. For a richer experience, try drizzling pure maple syrup on the side or over the top to marry that warm cinnamon flavor with golden syrupy notes perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a handful of blueberries for a burst of freshness that balances the sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a side of creamy yogurt can add cooler, tangy dimensions that complement the warm bites beautifully, making breakfast feel both indulgent and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bites stacked in a small tower on a platter with the icing drizzled artistically around the plate’s rim. For a fun twist, skewer a few onto toothpicks or small skewers and place them in decorative cups, perfect for brunch parties or kid-friendly buffets. You can also sprinkle with crushed nuts or cinnamon sugar for added texture and flavor contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the icing separate to prevent the bites from getting soggy. To keep them tasting fresh, gently reheat before drizzling the icing again.

Freezing

To enjoy these bites later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving with your favorite toppings.

Reheating

Reheat your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes to bring back the crisp exterior and warm custardy center. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them chewy or soggy. Once warmed, drizzle with fresh icing or syrup and enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough instead of refrigerated?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works wonderfully and might even add a personal touch to your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites. Just make sure to cut your rolls into bite-size pieces and cook them thoroughly.

What type of milk works best?

Any milk will do, whether dairy or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk. Whole milk will provide a richer custard, but feel free to use whatever you prefer or have on hand.

Can I bake the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites instead of pan-frying?

While pan-frying gives that lovely crispy exterior, you can bake the bites in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through. Just be sure to flip them halfway for even browning.

Is it necessary to use the icing packet?

The icing packet is a wonderful finishing touch that brings back that classic cinnamon roll sweetness, but you can skip it or substitute with cream cheese glaze, powdered sugar, or maple syrup depending on your taste.

How do I make sure the bites don’t fall apart during cooking?

Be gentle when handling the bites in the custard and while placing them in the skillet. Cooking on medium heat and turning carefully helps maintain their shape and ensures they cook evenly without breaking.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are an irresistible little breakfast treasure that brings together the best of two beloved treats into one delightful bite. Their warm, fluffy centers combined with golden, crispy edges and that sweet icing drizzle create a sunny start to any morning. I cannot wait for you to try making them for your next brunch—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a cozy hug in every bite!

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 28 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 12 bites 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a delightful breakfast treat that combines the gooey sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the classic comfort of French toast. These bite-sized pieces are coated in a rich egg custard, pan-fried until golden, then drizzled with warm icing for an irresistible start to your morning or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

Scale

Cinnamon Roll Bites

1 tube (12 oz / ~340 g) refrigerated cinnamon roll dough (with icing packet included)
2 large eggs
1/3 cup (80 ml) milk (any kind)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking)

Toppings (Optional)

Powdered sugar
Maple syrup

Instructions

Prepare the rolls: Open the cinnamon roll dough tube and carefully cut each cinnamon roll into quarters. Set these bite-sized pieces aside for coating.
Make the custard: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, pure vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard will infuse the bites with flavor and help create a golden crust.
Coat the bites: Add the cinnamon roll pieces into the egg custard mixture and gently toss or stir them until each piece is fully coated but not soggy.
Cook: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter. Arrange the coated dough pieces in a single layer in the skillet. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning occasionally, until they develop a golden brown exterior and are cooked through.
Finish & serve: Warm the icing packet by microwaving it for a few seconds until it loosens into a smooth drizzle. Drizzle the warm icing over the cooked bites. Serve immediately, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or accompanied by maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Notes

Use refrigerated cinnamon rolls for convenience, but you can make homemade cinnamon rolls if preferred.
Adjust cooking time slightly depending on the stove and thickness of bites to ensure they cook through without burning.
For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a suitable butter alternative.
Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor; the bites can become soggy if left too long.
These bites make a great party appetizer or fun brunch finger food.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Snack
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: American