How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast – The Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is the perfect combination of two beloved breakfast classics, blending the rich, spiced flavors of cinnamon rolls with the crispy, golden texture of French toast. The result is a decadent, mouthwatering dish that is soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and bursting with warm cinnamon goodness in every bite.

This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized with a variety of toppings such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a luscious cream cheese drizzle. Whether you’re making it for a lazy weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or a special morning treat, this dish is sure to impress.

In this guide, you’ll learn step-by-step how to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast perfectly every time. From selecting the best ingredients to expert tips on achieving the ideal texture, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game with this irresistible and indulgent twist on a classic!

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Ingredients for the Best Cinnamon Roll French Toast

To create the perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast, you’ll need a few essential ingredients that bring out its rich flavor and fluffy texture.

• Cinnamon Rolls – Homemade or store-bought for convenience.
• Eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and gives the toast a soft, custard-like texture.
• Milk – Whole milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative for a creamy base.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Ground Cinnamon – Enhances the spice profile and complements the cinnamon roll base.
• Butter – For cooking, ensuring a golden-brown finish and extra richness.

For extra indulgence, consider toppings such as:

• Maple Syrup – Classic and delicious.
• Powdered Sugar – A light dusting for a bakery-style touch.
• Cream Cheese Drizzle – Elevates the dish with a creamy, tangy contrast.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Having the right tools will make the cooking process smoother and help you achieve a perfectly crisp and fluffy texture.

• Skillet or Griddle – Ensures even cooking and a golden crust.
• Mixing Bowl – For whisking the egg mixture.
• Whisk – Helps combine ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula – Makes flipping the toast easier without breaking it.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is more than just an ordinary breakfast—it’s a decadent, bakery-style dish that takes comfort food to the next level.

• The soft, gooey texture of the cinnamon rolls pairs perfectly with the crispy edges of French toast.
• It’s an easy-to-make recipe that feels luxurious and special.
• Perfect for weekend brunches, holiday mornings, or a quick indulgent treat.
• Can be customized with different toppings and flavors to suit any preference.

Once you try this irresistible combination, it will quickly become a staple in your breakfast rotation!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Preparing the Cinnamon Rolls

Before you start cooking, prepare your cinnamon rolls to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

• If using store-bought cinnamon rolls: Slightly flatten them with your hands or a rolling pin to create an even surface. This allows them to absorb the batter properly.
• If using homemade cinnamon rolls: Slice them into thick pieces or use whole rolls depending on preference.
• Alternative method: You can also cut the rolls into bite-sized pieces for a cinnamon roll French toast casserole style.

Mixing the Batter

A well-balanced batter is key to getting the perfect custardy texture in your French toast.

• In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • Eggs – Helps coat and bind the toast.
  • Milk – Adds moisture and richness; use whole milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor with warm, sweet notes.
  • Ground Cinnamon – Complements the cinnamon roll base for an even deeper flavor.
• Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The batter should be slightly thick but not overly heavy to allow proper absorption.

Cooking on a Skillet

To achieve a golden, crispy texture while keeping the inside soft, follow these steps:

• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
• Dip each cinnamon roll into the batter, ensuring it’s well-coated but not overly soaked.
• Place the rolls on the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
• Flip carefully with a spatula to prevent them from falling apart.

Adding the Best Toppings

The right toppings elevate the dish and add extra indulgence. Try one or a combination of the following:

• Cream Cheese Frosting – Drizzle over the top for a classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• Powdered Sugar – A light dusting for a bakery-style finish.
• Maple Syrup – A rich, sweet addition that enhances the cinnamon notes.
• Fresh Fruit – Sliced bananas, strawberries, or blueberries add freshness and balance the sweetness.
• Caramel Sauce or Whipped Cream – For a dessert-like experience.

Enjoy your Cinnamon Roll French Toast warm, and pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for the ultimate breakfast treat!.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Variations

Stuffed Cinnamon Roll French Toast

For an extra indulgent twist, try stuffing your cinnamon rolls before dipping them in the batter.

• Cream Cheese Filling: Mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a dash of vanilla extract until smooth. Slice the cinnamon rolls in half and spread a generous layer of the mixture inside before sealing them back together.
• Nutella or Chocolate Spread: Add a rich, chocolatey filling by spreading Nutella, peanut butter, or melted chocolate inside the cinnamon rolls before dipping them in the egg mixture.
• Fruit Preserves: Use strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry jam to add a fruity touch that balances the sweetness.

The result is a soft, gooey center with a perfectly crispy exterior, making this variation a true breakfast delight.

Caramelized Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Take your Cinnamon Roll French Toast to the next level by creating a caramelized coating while cooking.

• Prepare a brown sugar mixture: Combine butter, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon in a skillet over medium heat. Stir until the mixture melts and starts to bubble.
• Cook the soaked cinnamon rolls in the caramel sauce: Instead of using plain butter, place the battered cinnamon rolls directly in the skillet with the caramel mixture.
• Flip carefully: As the toast cooks, it will develop a glossy, caramelized crust with a deep, buttery sweetness.

This method creates a rich, almost crème brûlée-like texture that pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Options

For those who follow a dairy-free or vegan diet, you can still enjoy this delicious recipe by making a few simple substitutions:

• Milk Alternatives: Use almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk instead of regular dairy milk.
• Egg Substitutes: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), mashed banana, or unsweetened applesauce for binding.
• Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil: Use plant-based butter or coconut oil to cook the toast while still achieving a golden-brown crust.
• Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting: Blend vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract for a dairy-free topping.

This version ensures everyone can enjoy a delicious, plant-based twist on this classic breakfast dish.

These variations allow you to customize your Cinnamon Roll French Toast to match different tastes and dietary needs while keeping the experience delicious and satisfying!

Expert Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Avoiding Sogginess

One of the biggest challenges when making Cinnamon Roll French Toast is ensuring it has the perfect texture—crispy on the outside while staying soft inside. To prevent sogginess:

• Limit soak time: Dip the cinnamon rolls quickly into the batter instead of letting them sit for too long. Over-soaking causes them to absorb too much liquid, making them mushy.
• Use stale or slightly dry cinnamon rolls: If your rolls are fresh and very soft, let them sit out for a few hours before using. This helps them hold their structure better.
• Cook at medium heat: Too high a temperature will burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked, and too low will cause excess moisture buildup.
• Let them rest on a cooling rack: Instead of stacking them on a plate after cooking, place them on a wire rack to keep them from getting soggy at the bottom.

Best Syrups and Toppings

Elevate the flavor of Cinnamon Roll French Toast with the perfect finishing touches. Instead of just using maple syrup, try:

• Maple Syrup – A classic, rich, and sweet addition.
• Honey – Adds a floral sweetness and a slightly thicker consistency.
• Nut Butter – Peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter for a nutty contrast.
• Fruit Preserves – Strawberry, raspberry, or apricot jam balances the sweetness with a tangy flavor.
• Caramel or Chocolate Drizzle – For an extra indulgent touch.
• Fresh Fruit – Sliced bananas, strawberries, or blueberries add freshness and natural sweetness.
• Whipped Cream or Greek Yogurt – A creamy topping to balance the rich cinnamon flavor.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which might be rare because they’re so delicious!), here’s how to store and reheat them for the best taste:

• Storage: Keep leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to store them longer, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
• Reheating:
  • Pan method (best option): Reheat on a skillet over medium-low heat with a small amount of butter to restore crispiness.
  • Oven method: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes until warmed through.
  • Air fryer method: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 2–3 minutes for a quick and crispy finish.
  • Microwave (last resort): Use short 15-second bursts, but be aware that this may soften the texture too much.

Following these expert tips will help you achieve the best possible texture and flavor every time you make Cinnamon Roll French Toast!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Store-Bought Cinnamon Rolls?

Yes! Store-bought cinnamon rolls like Pillsbury or Cinnabon are a convenient option and work well for this recipe. They provide consistent texture and flavor, making them easy to use. However, if you prefer a richer, homemade taste, you can make your own cinnamon rolls from scratch. Homemade rolls allow for better control over sweetness, spices, and texture, giving your Cinnamon Roll French Toast a more personalized and bakery-style quality.

What’s the Best Milk to Use?

The type of milk you choose can affect the overall richness and flavor of the dish. Here are the best options:

• Whole Milk – The best choice for a balanced texture and flavor.
• Half-and-Half – Creates an extra creamy and indulgent batter.
• Heavy Cream – Adds the richest flavor but should be mixed with milk to avoid a too-thick consistency.
• Dairy-Free Alternatives – Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk work well for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. Oat milk is the closest in texture to dairy milk, while coconut milk adds a subtle tropical hint.

How Can I Make It More Decadent?

If you’re looking to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast even more indulgent, try these extra-rich add-ons:

• Chocolate Drizzle – Melted chocolate or Nutella adds a luxurious chocolatey touch.
• Caramel Sauce – A buttery caramel drizzle makes it taste like a dessert.
• Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a crunchy contrast.
• Stuffed Cinnamon Roll French Toast – Fill the rolls with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves before cooking.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream – Add a dessert-like touch by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

These small additions can transform your Cinnamon Roll French Toast into a bakery-style, restaurant-worthy dish that’s perfect for special occasions or an indulgent weekend breakfast.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast ingredients:

Here’s a well-structured table for the Cinnamon Roll French Toast ingredients:

Optional Toppings

Conclusion

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is a delightful and indulgent breakfast that perfectly blends the soft, gooey richness of cinnamon rolls with the crispy, golden perfection of French toast. Whether you prefer it classic, stuffed with cream cheese, caramelized, or topped with fresh fruit and syrup, this dish is guaranteed to elevate your morning meal.

Experiment with different toppings, flavors, and variations to make it uniquely yours. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

Give it a try, enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your results! Let us know your favorite variation and how you like to customize your Cinnamon Roll French Toast for the ultimate breakfast experience.