Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing breakfast that combines the soft, spiced flavors of a cinnamon roll with the classic French toast? This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Rolls recipe brings the best of both worlds in a simple, tasty treat. Each bite features a warm, buttery cinnamon swirl wrapped in a crispy, golden French toast crust. Perfect for weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or special mornings, these roll-ups are easy to make and impossible to resist.
Overview of the Recipe
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Rolls recipe consists of soft bread slices filled with a homemade cinnamon-butter mixture, dipped in an egg-based custard, pan-fried until golden, and finished with a cinnamon-sugar coating. A cream cheese icing is drizzled over the top, creating a mouthwatering treat that’s both sweet and satisfying.
Key Highlights:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
History and Origin
Cinnamon rolls and French toast have their own unique histories, but this recipe blends their best features. French toast, dating back to Roman times, was created as a way to use up stale bread. Cinnamon rolls originated in Northern Europe, where they were a popular pastry due to the accessibility of cinnamon and sugar. Combining these two staples, the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups offer an inventive twist on breakfast that showcases the decadent flavors of both dishes.
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Roll Filling:
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
For the French Toast Base:
- 8 slices of thick, soft bread (white or brioche preferred)
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Assembly:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1-1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (for cooking)
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Butter and Bread
- Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until fully blended into a smooth, spreadable mixture.
- Prepare the Bread: Trim the crusts off each bread slice and use a rolling pin to flatten them gently. This will make the bread easier to roll and hold its shape.
- Spread the Filling: Spread an even layer of the cinnamon-butter mixture onto one side of each bread slice.
- Roll the Bread: Roll up each slice tightly from one end to the other, securing the filling inside.
Step 2: Create Your French Toast
- Prepare the Custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Dip the Rolls: Dip each cinnamon roll-up into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated but not overly saturated.
- Cook the Rolls: In a large skillet or frying pan, melt 1-1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Place the soaked roll-ups in the pan and cook until they are golden brown on all sides, turning as needed (about 2-3 minutes per side).
Step 3: Make the Coating and Icing
- Prepare the Coating: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Coat the Roll-Ups: Roll each cooked roll-up in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they are still warm.
- Make the Icing: In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar together until smooth and creamy. Use this mixture to drizzle over the warm roll-ups or serve as a dipping sauce.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Arrange and Garnish: Arrange the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups on a serving platter. For an extra touch, sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle maple syrup over them.
- Serve Warm: These are best enjoyed warm to savor the buttery, cinnamon-infused flavors.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Delicious Pairings:
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a fresh and light balance to the sweet rolls.
- Savory Sides: Pair with crispy turkey bacon or chicken ham to create a balanced breakfast spread.
- Beverages: Enjoy with a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or a glass of fresh orange juice.
Presentation Tips:
- Stack the roll-ups in a pyramid for a beautiful display.
- Place a dollop of whipped cream or a small bowl of the cream cheese icing next to the platter for added indulgence.
Variations of the Recipe
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon butter mixture for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips inside the roll-ups before rolling them.
- Healthier Option: Use whole-grain bread and reduce the sugar in the filling to make a lighter version.
- Fruit-Filled Rolls: Spread a thin layer of strawberry or raspberry jam under the cinnamon butter for a fruity twist.
Health Benefits Notes
While this dish is indulgent, it does offer a few nutritional benefits when prepared mindfully:
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins.
- Cinnamon: Known for its antioxidant properties and potential to help regulate blood sugar.
- Cream Cheese: Contains calcium for bone health.
To make this recipe slightly healthier, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and cutting back on the sugar.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, brioche and challah work particularly well due to their soft texture, but any soft, thick bread will do.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
You can prepare and assemble the roll-ups in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, then cook and coat them when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Reheat as needed using the microwave or oven.
Can I freeze these roll-ups?
Yes, freeze cooked roll-ups by placing them on a baking sheet until firm and then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Conclusion
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Rolls recipe is a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch table. With the warm flavors of cinnamon, the richness of French toast, and a touch of cream cheese icing, these roll-ups are sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for weekend mornings or special gatherings, they are both easy to prepare and a joy to eat. Whether you serve them with fresh fruit or a side of turkey bacon, these sweet, cinnamon-infused treats promise to make your mornings memorable.