Description
These Amazing Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites transform classic cinnamon rolls into bite-sized treats perfect for breakfast or brunch. Coated in a rich custard mixture and pan-fried to golden perfection, these fluffy bites are topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze for an irresistible sweet bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
- 2 cans (12.4 oz / 351g each) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk or half-and-half
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for dusting
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Non-stick cooking spray (optional)
Cream Cheese Glaze
- Cream cheese icing packets (from cinnamon rolls)
- 2 oz (¼ cup) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar), sifted
- 1–2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare Cinnamon Roll Pieces: Unroll each refrigerated cinnamon roll and slice into approximately 1-inch pieces; set aside.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a large, shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or half-and-half, heavy cream (if using), granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until completely smooth.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and allow it to melt, coating the bottom evenly.
- Dip the Cinnamon Roll Pieces: Dip a few cinnamon roll pieces into the custard mixture for 10-15 seconds per side, letting excess custard drip off.
- Cook the French Toast Bites: Place custard-coated pieces into the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Repeat: Transfer cooked bites to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain excess butter. Add more butter (1 tablespoon) to the skillet as needed and repeat with remaining pieces.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze: In a medium bowl, combine the cinnamon roll icing packets, softened cream cheese, sifted powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Adjust the Glaze Consistency: Gradually add milk or heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition until the glaze is smooth, glossy, and drizzle-able.
- Glaze the French Toast Bites: Once all bites are cooked and still warm, generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over them.
- Finish and Serve: Optionally dust with extra ground cinnamon. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture. Maple syrup or fresh berries make great additions.
Notes
- Use heavy cream in the custard mixture for extra richness, or omit for a lighter version.
- Ensure the skillet is not overcrowded to achieve even browning.
- The glaze should be thick yet pourable; adjust milk or cream quantity accordingly.
- Serve these bites warm for the best taste experience.
- Optional toppings like fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup complement the flavors well.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, French Toast, Cinnamon Rolls, Breakfast Bites, Cream Cheese Glaze
