How to Make the Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast

If you’re a fan of decadent breakfast treats, then cinnamon roll French toast is the perfect recipe for you. This delightful dish combines the sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the comforting texture of French toast, resulting in a mouthwatering fusion that will have you craving more. Whether you’re making this dish for a holiday brunch, a special weekend breakfast, or just because you love rich and comforting flavors, this guide will show you how to make the perfect cinnamon roll French toast every time. From selecting the right ingredients to adding the perfect toppings, we’ve got you covered.

Cinnamon roll French toast with whipped cream and fresh berries — Indulgent cinnamon roll French toast topped with whipped cream, fresh berries, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Table of Contents

What is Cinnamon Roll French Toast?

Cinnamon roll French toast is a delightful combination of two breakfast favorites. It involves slices of cinnamon roll bread or pre-made cinnamon rolls that are dipped in a rich egg mixture, then cooked to perfection. The result is a golden, custard-like interior with a crispy exterior that holds all the flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla. This dish is a wonderful way to use up day-old cinnamon rolls or elevate a classic breakfast dish into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to love cinnamon roll French toast. First of all, it’s incredibly indulgent, making it perfect for weekend mornings when you want to treat yourself. Secondly, it combines the sweet spiciness of cinnamon with the creamy texture of custard-dipped bread, giving it an irresistible flavor. In addition, this recipe is versatile—you can use store-bought cinnamon rolls or make them from scratch, depending on how much time you have.

Moreover, this dish can be easily adjusted to suit your tastes. For example, you can add toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, whipped cream, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar to make it even more special. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just want a delicious breakfast at home, cinnamon roll French toast is sure to please. Furthermore, the warm and comforting flavors make it a great choice for any occasion, and the options for customization mean that everyone can create their perfect version. Ultimately, this recipe brings a touch of sweetness and warmth to any morning, which is why it has become such a popular choice.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

To make this sweet treat, you’ll need ingredients for both the French toast mixture and optional toppings.

Ingredients for the French Toast

6 cinnamon rolls: Pre-made or homemade, preferably day-old to hold up better when dipped in the egg mixture.
4 large eggs: Helps create the rich, custardy coating for the toast.
1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess to the custard mixture.
1/2 cup heavy cream: For extra richness.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Enhances the cinnamon flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For cooking the French toast to golden perfection.

Optional Toppings

Powdered sugar: For dusting.
Maple syrup: Adds a classic sweetness.
Whipped cream: For a creamy, indulgent topping.
Fresh fruit: Berries or banana slices complement the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Chopped nuts: Adds texture and crunch.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

If you’re using pre-made cinnamon rolls, make sure they are a day old. Day-old rolls will hold up better when soaked in the custard mixture. If you’re using homemade cinnamon rolls, allow them to cool completely before proceeding.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

Whisk Eggs and Dairy: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until well combined.
Add Flavorings: Next, whisk in the ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is fully incorporated to ensure even flavor throughout the dish.

Step 3: Dip the Cinnamon Rolls

Slice the Cinnamon Rolls: Cut each cinnamon roll in half horizontally, creating thick slices that can absorb the custard.
Soak the Rolls: Dip each slice of cinnamon roll into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 10-15 seconds on each side. However, be careful not to over-soak, as the bread may fall apart.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

Heat the Butter: In a large skillet or griddle, melt the butter over medium heat.
Cook the Slices: Then, place the soaked cinnamon roll slices in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Serve

Finally, transfer the cooked cinnamon roll French toast to a serving platter. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as powdered sugar, maple syrup, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or chopped nuts. This ensures that the French toast is enjoyed at its peak—warm, flavorful, and utterly delicious. Additionally, serving it hot brings out the best of the cinnamon aroma and the buttery crispiness.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Use Day-Old Rolls: Day-old cinnamon rolls absorb the custard without becoming too soggy, which helps maintain their structure during cooking.
Do Not Over-Soak: Be careful not to soak the cinnamon roll slices for too long. They should be coated with custard but not saturated to the point of falling apart.
Control the Heat: Cook over medium heat to ensure the French toast cooks through without burning. Too high a heat may burn the exterior before the interior is fully cooked.
Make It Ahead: You can make the custard mixture the night before to save time in the morning. Simply store it in the refrigerator and give it a quick whisk before using. Therefore, making it ahead is a great way to simplify your morning routine.

Variations of Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Cinnamon roll French toast is incredibly versatile, and there are numerous ways you can change up the recipe to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole: Instead of frying individual slices, arrange the soaked cinnamon roll pieces in a baking dish. Pour any remaining custard over the top and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until set and golden. This variation is perfect for serving a crowd, especially during holidays or family gatherings.
Overnight Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Prepare the custard mixture and soak the cinnamon roll slices overnight in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply cook the French toast as directed. This is a great option if you want a quick and easy breakfast without any morning prep work. In addition, this method allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in an even more flavorful dish.
Stuffed Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Spread a layer of cream cheese or sweetened ricotta between two slices of soaked cinnamon roll. Cook as usual for a stuffed version that’s even more indulgent. Moreover, you can add a touch of honey or jam for extra sweetness.
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the cinnamon rolls before soaking them in the custard. The chocolate will melt during cooking, adding another layer of decadence that is perfect for chocolate lovers.
Caramel Apple Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Add thinly sliced apples to the skillet along with a drizzle of caramel sauce. The apples will soften as they cook, and the caramel will create a rich, gooey addition to the cinnamon roll French toast. This variation is perfect for fall mornings when you crave something extra comforting.
Nutella-Stuffed Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Spread a generous amount of Nutella between two slices of soaked cinnamon roll, and then cook as usual. The warm, melted Nutella adds a wonderful chocolate-hazelnut flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy it again without much hassle.
Freeze: You can freeze cooked French toast slices by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 2 months, making them a convenient option for future breakfasts.

Reheating

Oven: To reheat, place the French toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain the crispy texture.
Microwave: For a quicker option, microwave individual slices for about 30-45 seconds. However, keep in mind that this method may make the toast less crispy.
Skillet: Alternatively, reheat the French toast in a skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes on each side. This method helps bring back some of the crispiness that may be lost when using the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon roll French toast is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some great ways to enjoy it:

Classic: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup for a classic breakfast treat.
Fruity: Top with fresh berries, banana slices, or even caramelized apples to add a fruity twist that balances the richness of the cinnamon and custard.
Nutty: Additionally, sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts to add some crunch and contrast to the soft texture of the French toast.
Indulgent: Add a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for a dessert-like experience. Therefore, this version works wonderfully as a special occasion breakfast or brunch.
Savory Twist: Although it may seem unusual, you can add a savory element by serving with crispy bacon or sausage on the side. The salty flavors of the meat pair surprisingly well with the sweet cinnamon roll French toast.
Yogurt and Honey: For a lighter option, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. This adds a tangy and refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the French toast.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for ways to make cinnamon roll French toast a little healthier, consider these substitutions:

Use Low-Fat Milk: Substitute whole milk and heavy cream with low-fat or almond milk for a lighter version.
Reduce Sugar: Use less sugar in the custard mixture, as the cinnamon rolls are already quite sweet. Additionally, you could replace sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia.
Add Fresh Fruit: Instead of heavy syrups, serve the French toast with a generous helping of fresh berries for added nutrients. Fresh fruit not only adds flavor but also brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Whole Grain Rolls: Use whole grain cinnamon rolls instead of the traditional ones for added fiber and nutrients. This small change can make the dish more nutritious while still keeping it delicious.
Coconut Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative that still provides richness. Moreover, the subtle coconut flavor pairs well with cinnamon, adding an interesting twist to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole

To make a cinnamon roll French toast casserole, arrange slices of cinnamon rolls in a baking dish. Pour a custard mixture over them and bake until set. This version is ideal for serving large groups and can be prepped in advance, making it an excellent option for gatherings and holidays.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Overnight

An overnight cinnamon roll French toast is perfect for busy mornings. Prepare the French toast the night before by soaking the slices in custard and storing them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply cook them, saving time while still enjoying a delicious meal. Therefore, this option is convenient for those who want to enjoy a luxurious breakfast without the hassle of morning prep.

Can I Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast with Homemade Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes, you can absolutely make cinnamon roll French toast using homemade cinnamon rolls. In fact, using homemade rolls can make the dish even more special and delicious. Just be sure to allow the rolls to cool completely before slicing and soaking them in the custard mixture.

What Toppings Are Best for Cinnamon Roll French Toast?

The best toppings depend on your personal preferences. Some classic options include maple syrup, powdered sugar, and whipped cream. For a fruity twist, you can add fresh berries or banana slices. If you like a bit of crunch, chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts work wonderfully. Additionally, caramel or chocolate sauce can add an extra layer of indulgence, making it perfect for a special occasion.