Irresistible Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites You Have to Try

There’s something truly magical about cinnamon roll French toast bites—those little pockets of sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness that feel like a warm hug on a plate. I still remember the mornings in my grandmother’s kitchen, standing on that familiar stool, watching her swirl cinnamon and sugar into dough, the smell wrapping around us like a cozy blanket. Years later, as a busy mom and wife, I’ve found these bites to be the perfect way to bring that same warmth and love into our hectic mornings. They’re quick enough for a weekday breakfast but special enough to make any weekend feel like a celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites strike the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort. They’re like little bursts of cinnamon roll magic, but easier to make and perfect for dipping or sharing. For me, cooking is about more than just following a recipe—it’s a way to slow down and connect with my family. These bites do just that. They’re simple enough to whip up on busy school mornings and still bring that homemade charm that makes everyone gather around the table.

What I love most is how versatile they are. You can make them ahead of time, freeze them, or customize the cinnamon-sugar swirl to match your family’s favorite flavors. Plus, they get that golden, crispy exterior with a soft, custardy center that’s just irresistible. Trust me, once you make these, you’ll find yourself sneaking a few before anyone else wakes up—just like I do!

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites

• 6 thick slices of day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or any milk substitute like almond or oat milk)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the cinnamon sugar swirl)
• Optional: powdered sugar or cream cheese glaze for topping

If you’re out of brioche, challah works beautifully because of its soft, slightly sweet texture. I’ve even used thick Texas toast in a pinch, though the flavor is a bit more neutral. For dairy-free options, almond or oat milk blend seamlessly into the custard. And for that cinnamon swirl, you can get creative—sometimes I swap brown sugar for coconut sugar to add a little depth.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 220 per serving (6-8 bites)
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 180mg

Now, these numbers will vary depending on your milk choice and any toppings you add, but this gives you a good baseline. I always find that the homemade option offers a better balance than store-bought cinnamon roll bites, plus you get the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s going into your family’s breakfast.

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Steps to Create Your Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make cleanup a breeze and keep your bites from sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This custard mixture is where the magic begins, soaking into every cube of bread.
3. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
4. Dip each bread cube into the custard mixture, making sure it’s fully coated but not soggy. I like to let them soak for about 10 seconds to absorb just enough custard without falling apart.
5. Once coated, lightly roll or sprinkle the bread cubes in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step adds that classic cinnamon roll sweetness and a little texture.
6. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the coated bread cubes, cooking in batches if necessary, and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Using butter here is key for that rich, caramelized flavor—my grandma always swore by it.
7. Transfer the cooked bites to the prepared baking sheet. Once all bites are browned, bake them in the oven for 8-10 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through and delightfully warm inside.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. If you want to go the extra mile, drizzle with a simple cream cheese glaze or dust with powdered sugar for that bakery feel.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the secret to the best bites is not rushing the soaking process and making sure the skillet isn’t too crowded. This keeps them crisp and beautifully golden, just like the cinnamon rolls I grew up loving.

Tips for Making the Best Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites

My biggest advice? Use day-old bread. Fresh bread can turn soggy quickly, but slightly stale brioche or challah soaks up the custard perfectly while holding its shape. It’s a trick I picked up from my grandmother’s kitchen—she always said, “Good things take a little time,” and that includes letting your bread rest. Learn more: Irresistible Apple Fritter Bites You Have to Try Today

Also, don’t skip the cinnamon sugar coating. It’s that extra touch that transforms these bites from simple French toast to something truly reminiscent of cinnamon rolls. If your family loves a little crunch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon sugar mix before coating the bites.

When cooking, keep your heat moderate. Too hot and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too low and you lose that golden crust we all crave. I usually set my burner to medium and adjust as needed, which comes with experience and a little kitchen intuition.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These bites are a delight all on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully can turn breakfast into a full-on feast. My family loves serving them alongside crispy bacon or a side of fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples. The tartness of the fruit perfectly balances the sweetness of the bites.

For a cozy weekend brunch, I like to set out a small spread of toppings: warm maple syrup, whipped cream, and a tangy cream cheese glaze. Watching my kids’ faces light up as they customize their plates is one of my favorite parts of cooking. It’s these little moments—sharing food, laughter, and stories—that make mealtime so meaningful.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the reasons I adore these Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites is how well they store. You can make a big batch ahead of time and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to bring back that crisp exterior.

If you want to freeze them, simply flash freeze the cooked bites on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the time. This trick has saved me on many busy mornings when juggling work and family chaos.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites?

The main ingredients for Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites?

The total time to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites ahead of time?

Yes, Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites?

Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Creating these Cinnamon Roll French Toast bites is more than just preparing breakfast—it’s about crafting moments with my family that feel both special and effortless. From my grandmother’s kitchen stool to my busy home today, food has always been the thread weaving our stories together. These bites capture that spirit perfectly, offering a sweet, comforting pause in the everyday rush.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy weekend morning, I hope these bites bring a little warmth and joy to your table. Remember, cooking is about love, connection, and those small celebrations that make life delicious. So grab your skillet, gather those cinnamon-scented memories, and enjoy every bite of this simple, sweet tradition with the people you love.