Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are a creative and delicious way to enjoy the best flavors of cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make French toast form. With a creamy filling, a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, and a perfectly crispy exterior, these roll-ups are perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. They’re also great for serving to guests or as a fun breakfast for kids!
These roll-ups are easy to make, highly customizable, and absolutely irresistible. Let’s get into the recipe!
Ingredients
For the Roll-Ups:
- 8 slices of white bread (or brioche, trimmed of crusts)
- 4 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Egg Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh fruit (e.g., berries or sliced bananas)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
Trim the crusts from the slices of bread. Using a rolling pin, gently roll each slice of bread to flatten it. This will make it easier to roll them up later.
2. Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture over each flattened slice of bread.
3. Roll Up the Bread
Starting at one end, carefully roll up each slice of bread with the filling inside, creating a tight roll. Repeat this process with the remaining slices.
4. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a shallow dish, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside for later.
5. Make the Egg Mixture
In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
6. Cook the Roll-Ups
Heat a skillet or non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt.
Dip each rolled-up piece of bread into the egg mixture, making sure it’s evenly coated. Place the coated roll-ups into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Add more butter as needed to ensure all the roll-ups cook evenly.
7. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Once the roll-ups are cooked, remove them from the skillet and immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating them thoroughly.
8. Serve
Serve the cinnamon roll French toast roll-ups warm. You can drizzle them with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or serve with fresh fruit for an extra-special touch. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes
- Bread Choice: White bread, brioche, or soft sandwich bread works best for this recipe. Make sure to remove the crusts for easy rolling.
- Cream Cheese Mixture: For a richer flavor, you can also add a pinch of cinnamon or even a splash of maple syrup to the cream cheese mixture.
- Butter for Cooking: Keep the heat at medium so the butter doesn’t burn. You want the roll-ups to cook through evenly without burning the outside.
Variations
- Nutella French Toast Roll-Ups: Instead of cream cheese, use Nutella as the filling. This makes for an indulgent chocolate-hazelnut treat.
- Apple Cinnamon Roll-Ups: Add a spoonful of finely chopped cooked apples (sautéed with a little butter and cinnamon) to the cream cheese mixture before rolling up the bread.
- Strawberry Cream Roll-Ups: Add some finely chopped fresh strawberries or strawberry jam along with the cream cheese filling for a fruity version.
- Savory French Toast Roll-Ups: For a savory twist, skip the cinnamon sugar coating and cream cheese filling. Use ham and cheese as the filling and serve with a side of Dijon mustard for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time, up to the point of cooking. Store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours. When ready to serve, simply dip them in the egg mixture and cook as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover French toast roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I freeze French toast roll-ups?
Yes, you can freeze them! After cooking, let the roll-ups cool completely, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat them in a toaster oven or skillet until warmed through.
What can I serve with these roll-ups?
These roll-ups pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a dollop of yogurt. They’re also great on their own as a grab-and-go breakfast treat!
Can I make these dairy-free?
To make these roll-ups dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use a plant-based milk for the egg mixture. Use a vegan butter substitute for cooking.
Easy Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are the perfect breakfast or brunch treat that combines the flavors of a cinnamon roll with the simplicity of French toast. These roll-ups are a sweet, creamy, and crispy delight that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just treating yourself to a fun breakfast, they’re sure to be a hit.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a sweet and satisfying start to your day!
Let me know if you need any additional tips or variations for this recipe!