If you are looking to elevate your breakfast game, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe is an absolute must-try. It combines the comforting flavors of a classic cinnamon roll with the golden, fluffy texture of French toast, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite is infused with cinnamon goodness and topped with a luscious cream cheese icing that will have you coming back for more. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this recipe turns the ordinary into something spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together beautifully in this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe, each playing a vital role in creating those tender, flavorful slices. From the eggs that provide structure to the cinnamon swirl bread that delivers the signature taste, every component works in harmony to make your breakfast unforgettable.
- 4 large eggs: These give the French toast its rich, custardy base and help the bread soak up the flavors.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess for a tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle sweetness and depth to the egg mixture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that enlivens each bite with cozy warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 8 slices cinnamon swirl bread: Packed with cinnamon flavor, this bread replaces ordinary slices for maximum deliciousness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For cooking the French toast to a golden, buttery perfection.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Key for creating the creamy icing topping.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened): Adds tang and richness to the icing.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Thins out the icing so it drizzles perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing): Elevates the flavor of the cream cheese icing beautifully.
- Optional: maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream: Perfect finishing touches to customize your serving.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together the Custard
Start by cracking the eggs into a large bowl and whisking them until they’re smooth and frothy. Then, add in the whole milk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. Finally, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and salt, whisking everything so the flavors meld into a luscious custard. This mixture not only flavors the bread but ensures each slice gets perfectly soaked without becoming soggy.
Step 2: Prepare the Skillet
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the unsalted butter. It’s important the pan is hot enough to give your French toast a golden-brown crust but not so hot that the butter burns. This step sets the stage for the best texture and flavor in your final dish.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Take a slice of cinnamon swirl bread and dip it into the custard mixture, coating both sides evenly. Be careful not to soak it for too long or the bread might fall apart. The goal is a nice balance so the bread is moist but still holds its shape when cooked.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Place the dipped bread in the hot skillet and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a beautiful golden crust that contrasts with the soft, tender inside. Cook the rest of the slices in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan for even cooking.
Step 5: Keep Warm
As you finish cooking all the slices, transfer them to a plate and keep warm in a low oven set around 200°F. This keeps your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe warm and ready to enjoy together without losing that freshly cooked charm.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Icing
In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar and softened cream cheese. Add the milk and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with a bit more milk if needed — you want an pourable icing that drizzles delightfully over the toast.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Stack the warm French toast slices on plates and drizzle generously with the cream cheese icing. Add optional toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream to take your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe to the next level.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe is where the fun begins. Think fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and brightness, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar adds an elegant touch that will impress anyone you serve it to.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded breakfast, pair this dish with crispy bacon or sausage links — the savory contrast complements the sweetness perfectly. Alternatively, serve alongside a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette for a surprising fresh twist that balances richness with crispness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your French toast slices to create a mini tower and then cascade the cream cheese icing down the sides for a stunning look. You can also skew them on sticks for a fun, handheld approach that’s perfect for brunch parties. Another idea is to layer with fresh fruit and whipped cream between slices to create a decadent breakfast “cake.”
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should keep well for up to 2 days while maintaining good texture and flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooked French toast slices in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They will keep for up to 1 month, making it easy to enjoy this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe anytime with minimal effort.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This method helps preserve crisp edges and moist interiors better than a microwave. Add the cream cheese icing fresh after reheating for the best taste experience.
FAQs
Can I use regular bread instead of cinnamon swirl bread?
Absolutely! While cinnamon swirl bread enhances the cinnamon flavor, any sturdy bread like brioche or challah will work well. You can always sprinkle some extra cinnamon on the custard for that signature twist.
What if I don’t have cream cheese for the icing?
You can substitute with mascarpone cheese or blend some softened butter with powdered sugar and vanilla for a simple glaze. It won’t be quite the same but still delicious.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and a vegan egg replacer. For the icing, coconut cream mixed with powdered sugar makes a tasty alternative to cream cheese icing.
How do I prevent soggy French toast?
Dip the bread just long enough to coat it but not so long that it becomes saturated. Also, cook on a moderately hot skillet to form a crust quickly, locking in moisture without getting soggy.
Is the cinnamon in the custard enough for flavor?
Yes, along with the cinnamon swirl bread, the added cinnamon in the custard layer creates a wonderfully warm spice profile that carries throughout every bite.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe, it will become your new favorite breakfast treat. It’s cozy, comforting, and feels indulgent without any complicated steps. So grab that cinnamon swirl bread, whip up this recipe, and get ready to impress your family or guests with a breakfast that’s truly worth waking up for. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Roll French Toast is a delightful fusion of two breakfast favorites: cinnamon rolls and French toast. This recipe features cinnamon swirl bread dipped in a spiced egg mixture, cooked to golden perfection, and topped with a creamy cinnamon-infused icing. Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a special morning treat, it combines warm spices, rich cream cheese icing, and optional syrup or fresh fruit to elevate your breakfast experience.
Ingredients
French Toast Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 slices cinnamon swirl bread (or any bread of your choice)
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Cream Cheese Icing
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup
- Fresh fruit
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs and whisk until smooth to create a uniform base.
- Add liquids and spices: Pour in 1 cup whole milk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, then sprinkle 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk together until combined and slightly frothy to infuse flavors.
- Heat the skillet: Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, allowing it to melt evenly to prevent sticking and add richness.
- Dip the bread: Submerge each cinnamon swirl bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides lightly without soaking too long to maintain texture.
- Cook the French toast: Place the coated bread slices onto the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Keep warm: Transfer cooked French toast to a plate and keep warm in a low oven set to around 200°F while finishing the remaining slices to ensure all servings are hot.
- Make the icing: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese. Add 1 tablespoon milk and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing until smooth and creamy. Adjust with more milk if necessary for desired consistency.
- Serve: Stack warm French toast slices on a serving plate and drizzle generously with the cream cheese icing. Optionally, garnish with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream to taste.
Notes
- Use cinnamon swirl bread for the best flavor, but any bread will work.
- Do not soak bread too long in the egg mixture to avoid sogginess.
- Keep cooked French toast warm in a low oven to maintain texture before serving.
- The cream cheese icing can be adjusted in thickness by adding more or less milk.
- Serve immediately after drizzling icing for the best taste and texture.
