If you are on the hunt for a delightful breakfast treat that combines the best of two beloved classics, the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe is an absolute game-changer. Imagine tender, golden-brown French toast cubes bursting with cinnamon goodness, generously coated in a cinnamon sugar blend, and optionally drizzled with a sweet glaze that elevates each bite into pure morning bliss. This recipe transforms ordinary bread into irresistible bite-sized morsels that are perfect for sharing, snacking, or simply savoring with your favorite cup of coffee. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become a staple in your brunch rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe is refreshingly simple, yet every component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the soft bread cubes to the warm cinnamon notes and the smooth glaze, each ingredient is carefully chosen to delight your taste buds.
- 6 slices of bread (brioche or white bread): Brioche adds a rich, buttery texture, but white bread offers a classic softness that soaks up the egg mixture wonderfully.
- 2 eggs: These bind the mixture and provide a custardy richness to the bites.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and lightness to the egg mixture for perfectly tender bites.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, sweet aroma that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: The star spice that gives these bites their signature cozy flavor.
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking): Ensures each bite gets a golden, crispy exterior while adding a luscious buttery note.
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating: 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon combine to add just the right amount of sweet spice on the outside.
- For the Glaze (Optional): 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract make a simple yet decadent drizzle that takes these bites over the top.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Perfect Egg Mixture
Start by whisking together your eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a bowl until everything is combined into a smooth, fragrant custard. This mixture is what infuses the bread cubes with that irresistible cinnamon roll flavor we all crave.
Step 2: Coat the Bread Cubes
Next, gently dip each bread cube into the egg mixture, making sure it’s well-coated but not soggy. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is packed with creamy, cinnamon-infused goodness inside.
Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection
Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat, then add your soaked bread cubes. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally so all sides get that beautiful golden-brown crust while staying soft inside. This technique locks in the flavors and creates that crave-worthy texture.
Step 4: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar
While the bites are still warm, toss them in a bowl with the cinnamon sugar mixture. This coating gives a delightful crunchy sweetness that perfectly complements the soft interior and brings out that classic cinnamon roll vibe.
Step 5: Drizzle with Optional Glaze
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a simple glaze. Drizzle it generously over your French toast bites for a luscious finishing touch that’s just like frosting on a cinnamon roll.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Enjoy!
These bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Grab a fork, dive in, and savor the fusion of flavors that make this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe an irresistible treat.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe
Garnishes
To add visual appeal and a flavor boost, consider garnishing your French toast bites with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dusting of cinnamon. Fresh berries or a small dollop of whipped cream also add beautiful color and complementary taste. These little touches take the presentation from simple to stunning.
Side Dishes
Serve these bites alongside fresh fruit salad or crispy bacon for a perfect balance of sweet and savory on your breakfast table. A cup of hot coffee or a fresh glass of orange juice completes this meal and makes it feel like a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve the bites in mini bowls or on skewers to make them easy to grab and dip. You can even add small dipping cups filled with maple syrup or cream cheese frosting for an interactive and fun twist that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days while maintaining their flavor and texture. This makes them a great option for a quick breakfast or snack later on.
Freezing
If you want to keep these bites for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen French toast bites can last up to 1 month and are a convenient grab-and-go treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Brioche or white bread work best due to their softness and ability to soak up the custard, but you can experiment with challah or even cinnamon swirl bread for extra flavor.
Is it necessary to make the glaze?
The glaze is completely optional but highly recommended if you want that authentic cinnamon roll sweetness. The bites are delicious without it too, especially if you enjoy dipping them in syrup.
How do I prevent the bread cubes from becoming soggy?
Make sure not to soak the bread cubes for too long in the egg mixture—just enough to coat them well. Cooking over medium heat until golden also helps create a crisp crust that keeps the texture perfect.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a vegan butter alternative to achieve similar great flavors and textures.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe yields about 16 bites, which makes a perfect snack or a small breakfast for 2 to 4 people depending on appetite.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe a try because it’s such a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings joy with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these little bites combine warmth, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia into one perfect morning starter. So grab your ingredients and let the magic happen in your kitchen—you might just find your next favorite breakfast obsession!
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 16 bites
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a delightful twist on classic French toast, featuring bite-sized bread cubes soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture, pan-fried to golden perfection, coated in cinnamon sugar, and optionally drizzled with a sweet glaze. Perfect for a sweet breakfast treat or snack that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
French Toast Bites
- 6 slices of bread (brioche or white bread), cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Glaze (Optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined and smooth.
- Coat the bread cubes. Dip the bite-sized bread cubes into the egg mixture, ensuring each cube is well-coated with the mixture to absorb flavor.
- Cook the French toast bites. Heat the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the soaked bread cubes and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally with a spatula until the cubes are golden brown on all sides.
- Apply cinnamon sugar coating. In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together. Once the French toast bites are cooked, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Make and drizzle the glaze (optional). If desired, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to form a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the coated French toast bites before serving.
- Serve warm. Plate the French toast bites while warm and enjoy this sweet and tasty treat immediately.
Notes
- Use brioche or white bread for best results due to their soft texture.
- Ensure the bread cubes are evenly coated with the egg mixture to avoid dry spots.
- Cook the bites on medium heat to prevent burning and to achieve a golden crust.
- The glaze is optional but adds extra sweetness and moisture.
- These bites are best served fresh but can be kept warm in a low oven if needed.
