Few things make mornings sweeter than the aroma of cinnamon and butter sizzling in a pan. Enter Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites—a delightful fusion of two breakfast favorites: cinnamon rolls and classic French toast. This recipe transforms store-bought or homemade cinnamon rolls into golden, caramelized bites that are crisp on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, and bursting with cinnamon sugar flavor.

Ideal for brunches, holiday mornings, or weekend indulgence, these bites are quick to prepare yet feel wonderfully indulgent. You’ll dip the cinnamon roll pieces into a classic egg custard spiced with cinnamon and vanilla, then fry them in butter until golden. The result? A handheld, bite-sized breakfast treat that’s endlessly dippable and incredibly satisfying.

Serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup, a spoonful of cream cheese glaze, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Top with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated presentation. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, these French toast bites are bound to steal the show at your breakfast table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Two Breakfast Favorites in One – Combines the flavors of cinnamon rolls and French toast in one crave-worthy bite.
Fast and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes using minimal ingredients and effort.
Perfect for Sharing – Great for brunch spreads, breakfast boards, or potluck-style mornings.
Customizable Toppings – Pile on syrup, berries, glaze, or whipped cream to suit your taste.
Kid-Friendly and Fun – Bite-sized pieces make them perfect for little hands and picky eaters.

Ingredients

Refrigerated cinnamon rolls (or homemade cinnamon rolls)
Eggs
Milk
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Butter (for frying)
Maple syrup or cream cheese glaze (for serving)
Optional toppings: fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream

Variations

Homemade Touch: Use homemade cinnamon roll dough if you want a from-scratch option.
Dairy-Free: Substitute plant-based milk and butter for a dairy-free version.
Stuffed Bites: Add a small cube of cream cheese inside each piece before dipping for a gooey center.
Savory Twist: Add a pinch of salt or serve with a side of bacon for contrast.
Baked Version: Arrange coated bites in a baking dish and bake instead of frying for a less hands-on approach.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Cinnamon Rolls

Cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces. If using homemade dough, shape and slice as needed.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.

Step 3: Dip the Cinnamon Roll Pieces

Dip each cinnamon roll bite into the custard mixture, allowing excess to drip off.

Step 4: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat until sizzling.

Step 5: Cook the Bites

Add the dipped cinnamon roll pieces to the skillet in batches, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve warm with your choice of toppings or dips.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use nonstick pans or well-seasoned cast iron to prevent sticking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches for even browning.
Let the dipped bites sit for a few seconds before frying so they absorb the custard.
Stir the custard occasionally to keep cinnamon evenly distributed.
Serve immediately for best texture—crispy outside, fluffy inside.

How to Serve

Serve these bites warm and fresh, arranged on a platter with small bowls of maple syrup and cream cheese glaze for dipping. Add fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar for color and flair. For a brunch buffet, pair them with eggs, bacon, or fruit salad for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled bites in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving.

Freezing

Freeze cooked bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven or air fryer.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet, toaster oven, or microwave. For best results, use the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?

Yes! Just prepare and cut the dough into small pieces before dipping and frying.

2. What type of milk is best?

Whole milk gives the richest flavor, but any type of milk (dairy or non-dairy) will work.

3. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

4. Are these good for meal prep?

They’re best fresh, but you can freeze and reheat for a quick breakfast treat.

5. What’s the best glaze to serve with them?

A simple cream cheese glaze or classic maple syrup both work wonderfully.

6. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

7. How can I make them less sweet?

Use unsweetened toppings and reduce the glaze or syrup amount when serving.

8. Can I serve these as dessert?

Absolutely—serve with ice cream or a sweet dipping sauce for a fun twist.

9. How do I prevent soggy bites?

Cook in hot butter and serve immediately for the best crispy texture.

10. Can I make them gluten-free?

Use gluten-free cinnamon roll dough if available and follow the same steps.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the ultimate breakfast hybrid—warm, gooey, cinnamon-laced perfection in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply making an ordinary morning a little sweeter, this recipe is quick to whip up and endlessly fun to serve. With minimal prep, maximum flavor, and limitless topping options, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a breakfast favorite for all ages.