Easy Cinnamon Roll French Toast: An Amazing Recipe!

Okay, let’s talk breakfast! I have a confession: I love a good brunch, especially if it involves something sweet and a little bit decadent.

One morning, staring at a plate of leftover cinnamon rolls, I had a lightbulb moment, why not combine the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the custardy goodness of French toast? And that’s how my Cinnamon Roll French Toast recipe was born!

This recipe takes about 20 minutes to make (5 minutes prep and 15 minutes cooking) so it is perfect for a weekend brunch.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll French Toast

• Perfect Way to Use Leftover Cinnamon Rolls: No more wasting those delicious cinnamon rolls! This recipe transforms them into an even more amazing treat.
• Quick and Easy Brunch: This is a fuss-free recipe that’s ready in minutes, ideal for busy mornings or lazy weekends.
• Decadent Treat: The combination of cinnamon roll swirls and custardy French toast is simply irresistible.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to make it truly your own.

What Kind of Cinnamon Rolls to Use for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

I’ve experimented with all sorts of cinnamon rolls for this recipe, and here’s what I’ve found. Both homemade and store-bought cinnamon rolls work great. If I’m using store-bought, I prefer the ones that are a little denser and not overly frosted; it helps them hold their shape better when dipped.

Size matters too, larger cinnamon rolls may need a bit more cooking time. Flavor-wise, you can get creative! Classic cinnamon rolls are always a win, but I’ve also tried it with caramel pecan cinnamon rolls, and it was divine.

If your cinnamon rolls are heavily frosted, you might want to scrape off some of the frosting before dipping to prevent the French toast from becoming too sweet.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

• 5 leftover cinnamon rolls (baked and cooled)
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening, for the skillet
• Toppings: maple syrup and powdered sugar

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cut each leftover cinnamon roll in half horizontally and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
3. Dip each halved cinnamon roll into the egg mixture, coating both sides well.
4. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a bit of vegetable shortening. Cook the dipped cinnamon rolls for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp.
5. Transfer them to a serving platter and serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar to enjoy.

Tips for the Best Cinnamon Roll French Toast

I have a few tricks up my sleeve to ensure your Cinnamon Roll French Toast turns out perfect every time! First, keep an eye on the pan temperature; medium heat is key. If it’s too high, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked through.

I also like to let the cinnamon rolls soak in the egg mixture for just a few seconds on each side. Too long, and they can get soggy; too short, and they won’t be custardy enough. When flipping, be gentle to avoid tearing them.

Need more ideas for a perfect brunch? Check out our other breakfast and brunch recipes.

Delicious Topping Ideas for Your Cinnamon Roll French Toast

While maple syrup and powdered sugar are classic and delicious, I love to get creative with toppings! A drizzle of salted caramel sauce adds a rich, decadent touch. Candied pecans provide a delightful crunch.

For a lighter option, try fresh fruit compotes, like a mixed berry or peach compote. A simple cream cheese glaze, Nutella, or a dollop of whipped cream can also elevate this French toast to the next level.

Elevate your meal with other unique treats such as Colombian Coconut Limeade, which is the perfect addition to any brunch.

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is amazing on its own, but I like to create a complete brunch spread. Crispy bacon or savory sausage make a great contrast to the sweetness.

A refreshing fruit salad can add a burst of freshness. As for beverages, I’d suggest a cup of hot coffee, fresh orange juice, or even a celebratory mimosa.

How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Roll French Toast

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), storing them properly is important.

I usually let the French toast cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, I prefer using the oven for the best texture: bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

You can also use a microwave, but be careful not to overcook it; heat in short intervals. A skillet works too; just re-crisp each side over medium heat.

Troubleshooting Guide for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Sometimes things don’t go as planned, and that’s okay! If your French toast is burning, lower the heat immediately.

For a soggy texture, make sure you’re not soaking the cinnamon rolls for too long, and ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding them.

Uneven cooking can be solved by making sure the cinnamon rolls are evenly coated with the egg mixture and flipping them halfway through the cooking time.

Ingredient Substitutions for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Ingredient	Substitution Options	Impact on Final Result
Heavy Cream	Whole Milk, Half-and-Half, Almond Milk	Whole milk will result in a slightly less rich and creamy texture; Half-and-half is a good middle ground; Almond milk will make it lighter and vegan.
Granulated Sugar	Brown Sugar, Maple Syrup	Brown sugar adds a molasses flavor; Maple syrup provides a unique sweetness but can make the French toast a bit stickier.
Vanilla Extract	Almond Extract, Maple Extract	Almond extract adds a nutty flavor; Maple extract enhances the maple syrup flavor.
Vegetable Shortening	Butter, Coconut Oil	Butter adds a rich, buttery flavor; Coconut oil imparts a subtle coconut flavor.

Make-Ahead Instructions for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

To save time, I often prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator.

You can also slice the cinnamon rolls and keep them in an airtight container. Just remember to give the egg mixture a good whisk before using it the next day!

Equipment Options for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

While I usually use a nonstick skillet, other options work just as well. A griddle is great if you’re making a large batch, as it provides even heat distribution.

A cast-iron skillet can also be used, but make sure it’s well-seasoned to prevent sticking. The key is to use something that heats evenly and is easy to clean.

Nutritional Information for Cinnamon Roll French Toast

(Per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 25g
• Protein: 10g

A Brief History of French Toast and Cinnamon Rolls

French toast, or “pain perdu” (lost bread), has ancient roots, with variations appearing as far back as the Roman Empire. It was a clever way to use stale bread.

Cinnamon rolls, on the other hand, are a more recent invention, originating in Sweden in the 19th century. They quickly gained popularity worldwide and have become a beloved treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is a delightful twist on two classic treats. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a special brunch.

So, gather your leftover cinnamon rolls, whip up the simple batter, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable breakfast.

I would love to hear how this turns out for you! Leave a comment below to share your results, ask questions, or rate the recipe. Happy cooking!

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