Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the kind of fun, irresistible breakfast treat that turns an ordinary morning into something magical. Imagine soft cinnamon roll pieces coated in a silky custard mixture, fried until golden, and rolled in cinnamon sugar while still warm. Every bite tastes like a cross between a gooey cinnamon bun and crispy-edged French toast—basically the best of both worlds.
These bites are quick to make, wildly delicious, and perfect for brunches, sleepovers, holiday mornings, or lazy weekends when you want something cozy and unforgettable. Kids adore them, adults inhale them, and the whole batch disappears before you even pour a second cup of coffee. Serve with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze, and enjoy pure breakfast joy.
Equipment You Will Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Nonstick skillet or griddle
- Tongs or spatula
- Small bowl for coating
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment-lined plate or cooling rack
Ingredients List
- 1 can (12–16 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp butter for cooking
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, cream cheese icing, berries
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by opening your can of cinnamon rolls and cutting each roll into four bite-sized pieces. Place them on a parchment-lined plate to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Heat your skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of butter. Once the butter begins to bubble, dip several cinnamon roll pieces into the egg mixture, coating them fully but not soaking them to the point of falling apart.
Place the coated bites onto the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Work in batches to prevent overcrowding and maintain even browning. Add more butter as needed between batches to keep the bites crisp and flavorful.
As they finish cooking, transfer the warm bites to a plate lined with paper towels or a cooling rack. In a small bowl, mix sugar and a pinch of cinnamon. Roll the warm bites in this mixture for extra sweetness and that iconic cinnamon-sugar sparkle.
Repeat until all bites are coated, golden, and perfectly crisp. Drizzle with the icing packet from the cinnamon roll can or serve with warm maple syrup for dipping.
You can even whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of milk for a decadent homemade glaze. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the heavenly mix of gooey cinnamon layers, crispy edges, and sweet glaze with every bite.
Expert Tips for Success
Cutting the cinnamon rolls into evenly sized pieces ensures each bite cooks at the same rate and develops a consistent golden exterior. Keep your skillet at medium heat to prevent burning—cinnamon sugar caramelizes fast, so steady heat helps achieve the perfect color without overcooking.
Avoid fully soaking the bites in the egg mixture; a quick dip gives just the right custard texture without making them mushy. Always use butter instead of oil, as it adds flavor and helps caramelize the edges beautifully.
Rolling the bites in cinnamon sugar while still warm ensures the coating sticks perfectly. Letting the bites cool slightly prevents the glaze from melting completely and keeps it beautifully drizzled. Adding a splash of cream to the icing packet creates a smoother, pourable glaze that coats the bites evenly.
For extra crunch, cook the bites an additional minute per side or finish them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for five minutes. These small tweaks guarantee perfectly gooey, crisp, flavorful bites every time.
Variations and Substitutions
Try swapping the canned rolls for brioche or challah cubes for a more traditional French toast vibe with cinnamon-sugar flair. If you want deeper spice notes, add nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin spice to the egg mixture.
For a decadent twist, fold mini chocolate chips into the icing or drizzle the finished bites with caramel sauce. You can even add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon warmth.
For fruity versions, top the bites with fresh berries, sautéed apples, or a spoonful of strawberry compote. Dairy-free options work easily—use almond milk and plant-based butter, and choose dairy-free cinnamon rolls when available.
For a lighter version, reduce the sugar coating and serve with fresh fruit and yogurt. These bites adapt beautifully to holidays, brunch themes, or flavor cravings, making them endlessly customizable and incredibly fun to experiment with.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in a bowl with toothpicks for easy, shareable party-style snacking. Add small ramekins of maple syrup, cream cheese glaze, caramel, or even Nutella for dipping variety.
Pair them with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage links, or breakfast potatoes for a complete brunch spread that balances sweetness with savory. For a beautiful presentation, pile the bites high on a platter and dust lightly with powdered sugar.
Pair this treat with hot coffee, cinnamon lattes, chai tea, or cold brew for adults. Kids will love them with milk, hot cocoa, or fruit smoothies. For brunch parties, offer mimosas or sparkling cider to complement the warm cinnamon flavors.
These bites also make fantastic holiday morning treats—serve beside fruit salad, quiche, or cinnamon apple oatmeal. No matter how you serve them, they shine as the star of any breakfast or brunch table.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container once fully cooled. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, pop them in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispness. They also warm nicely in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
Avoid microwaving unless in a pinch—it softens the edges and loses the crisp French toast texture that makes these bites so irresistible.
To freeze, spread cooked bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to freezer-safe bags for up to two months. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven or air fryer until hot and crisp. Add fresh glaze or powdered sugar after reheating for the best results.
With proper storage, these bites stay delicious and convenient for quick breakfasts, brunch plates, or sweet snack cravings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Yes! Just cut them into small pieces before baking and follow the same steps.
Do I have to dip them in sugar after frying?
No, but it adds amazing texture and sweetness.
Can I prep them ahead?
You can cut and prepare the rolls ahead, but cook just before serving.
Can I air fry instead of pan-fry?
Yes—cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes.
Can I make them without the icing?
Absolutely—they’re delicious plain or with maple syrup.
