Hi, I’m Emily, and welcome back to my cozy corner of the internet, Delish Map!
Today, I’m beyond excited to share a recipe that combines two of my absolute favorite breakfast treats: cinnamon rolls and French toast.
Get ready for Cinnamon Roll French Toast; it’s unbelievably delicious and comes together in just about 20 minutes! This recipe is a perfect way to transform leftover cinnamon rolls into a decadent brunch that everyone will love.
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Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- It’s the ultimate way to use leftover cinnamon rolls; no more letting those sweet treats go to waste.
- This recipe offers a quick and easy brunch option that feels indulgent but requires minimal effort.
- I find the recipe endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings, so you can create a unique breakfast masterpiece every time.
- It’s a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions.
Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- 5 leftover cinnamon rolls (baked and cooled): The star of our show! Leftover cinnamon rolls work best because they’re slightly drier, allowing them to soak up the custard mixture without becoming soggy.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs are essential for creating the rich custard base that coats each cinnamon roll slice, providing structure and binding the ingredients together.
- ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk: I use heavy cream for an extra decadent French toast, but whole milk works just as well! Both add moisture and richness to the custard.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: A touch of sugar enhances the sweetness and helps to caramelize the French toast as it cooks, creating a golden-brown crust.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the cinnamon rolls beautifully; I love using Madagascar vanilla for its rich taste.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For an extra layer of cinnamon flavor! I like using Ceylon cinnamon for its delicate and slightly sweet taste.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening, for the skillet: Vegetable shortening works great because it has a high smoke point, preventing it from burning easily, and it helps create a crispy exterior.
- Toppings: maple syrup and powdered sugar: The classic French toast toppings! I recommend pure maple syrup for the best flavor and a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Equipment Recommendations
To make the best Cinnamon Roll French Toast, I recommend using a good-quality nonstick skillet.
A 10-inch skillet is perfect for cooking several slices at once without overcrowding.
I love using my All-Clad nonstick skillet because it heats evenly and is incredibly durable.
If you’re making a large batch, a large griddle can also be helpful!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Step-by-Step
- Cut each leftover cinnamon roll in half horizontally and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
- Dip each halved cinnamon roll into the egg mixture, coating both sides well.
- 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.
- Transfer them to a serving platter and serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar to enjoy.
The Science Behind the Recipe
The magic of this recipe lies in the custard ratio and the caramelization process. The eggs provide structure, while the cream adds richness and moisture. The sugar not only sweetens but also caramelizes in the pan, creating a deliciously crisp and golden crust.
Dipping the cinnamon rolls in the custard allows them to soak up the flavors without becoming overly soggy, resulting in a perfectly balanced bite.
A nutrition label from Harvard University details the nutrition found in cinnamon rolls.
Topping Ideas for Your Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- Cream cheese glaze
- Nutella
- Whipped cream
- Brown sugar
- Caramel sauce
- Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
- A drizzle of melted butter
Serving Suggestions
For a complete brunch experience, I love serving Cinnamon Roll French Toast with a side of crispy bacon or sausage. Fresh fruit salads or a light yogurt parfait also complement the sweetness perfectly.
As for drinks, consider serving mimosas, freshly squeezed orange juice, or a warm cup of coffee. This would make a great treat alongside some Colombian Coconut Limeade, or Limonada de Coco.
For a casual brunch, simply arrange the French toast on a platter with various toppings.
For a more formal occasion, plate each serving individually and garnish with fresh berries and a sprig of mint.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make your brunch prep even easier, you can prepare the custard mixture the day before. Simply whisk together the eggs, cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. In the morning, all you have to do is dip and cook!
You can also slice the cinnamon rolls ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Looking for another way to enjoy a tasty breakfast? Consider this recipe for Healthy Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes for a savory and sweet way to start your day.
Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions
- Soggy French toast: Make sure your cinnamon rolls are slightly stale to absorb the custard better. Don’t oversoak them in the egg mixture.
- Burning: Cook over medium heat and adjust the cooking time as needed. Using vegetable shortening helps prevent burning.
- Cinnamon rolls falling apart: Gently handle the cinnamon rolls when dipping and cooking. Ensure the skillet isn’t too hot.
- Uneven cooking: Use a nonstick skillet and ensure it’s evenly heated before adding the French toast.
- Bland flavor: Use high-quality vanilla extract and cinnamon. Consider adding a pinch of salt to the custard mixture to enhance the flavors.
Variations on Cinnamon Roll French Toast
| Ingredient | Change | Expected Result |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Rolls | Store-bought | Slightly softer texture, may require less cooking time. |
| Cinnamon Rolls | Homemade | Richer flavor, denser texture, potentially longer cooking time. |
| Heavy Cream | Almond Milk | Lighter flavor, suitable for dairy-free diets, slightly less rich. |
| Granulated Sugar | Coconut Sugar | Slightly caramel-like flavor, lower glycemic index. |
Storage and Reheating
Leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, I recommend using a skillet over low heat or a toaster oven to maintain the texture. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overheat, or it will become rubbery.
You can find other tasty recipes like this in our breakfast and brunch section.
FAQs about Cinnamon Roll French Toast
What is the ideal thickness to slice the cinnamon rolls?
I recommend slicing the cinnamon rolls about 1 inch thick. This ensures they cook evenly and don’t fall apart while still being thick enough to soak up the custard.
How does using different types of cinnamon rolls (e.g., store-bought vs. homemade) impact the cooking time and texture?
Store-bought cinnamon rolls tend to be softer and may cook faster, so keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Homemade cinnamon rolls are often denser and may require a bit more cooking time to ensure they’re heated through.
Can this be made in an air fryer? What adjustments are needed?
Yes, this can be made in an air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the dipped cinnamon rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
How do I prevent the cinnamon roll from falling apart during cooking?
To prevent the cinnamon rolls from falling apart, handle them gently when dipping and cooking. Use a nonstick skillet and avoid overcrowding the pan. If the cinnamon rolls are very soft, you can chill them in the freezer for a few minutes before dipping to firm them up.
How can I adapt this recipe for different dietary needs (e.g., gluten-free, vegan)?
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cinnamon rolls. For a vegan version, use vegan cinnamon rolls and substitute the eggs with a flax egg mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and the heavy cream with a plant-based milk alternative like almond or soy milk.
What are some tips for making this ahead of time?
In addition to preparing the custard mixture the day before, you can also slice the cinnamon rolls and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just be sure to keep them well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this incredibly easy and delicious Cinnamon Roll French Toast!
It’s the perfect way to elevate your brunch game and transform those leftover cinnamon rolls into a truly unforgettable treat.
Now, I would love to hear from you! What are your favorite toppings for French toast?
Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts or any questions you may have. I can’t wait to hear from you!
Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more cozy brunch ideas and sweet treats!
Quick & Easy Cinnamon Roll French Toast: The Ultimate Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut each leftover cinnamon roll in half horizontally and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth.
- Dip each halved cinnamon roll into the egg mixture, coating both sides well.
- 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.
- Transfer them to a serving platter and serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar to enjoy.
