Meet your new breakfast (or brunch, or dessert) obsession: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups! Picture this—soft slices of bread wrapped around a creamy, sweet filling, rolled in irresistibly spiced cinnamon sugar, then crisped to golden perfection in the skillet. The result is delightfully fluffy on the inside and perfectly crunchy on the outside, all in a bite-sized, dunkable portion. Kids beg for these. Grown-ups sneak seconds. And best of all, you don’t need any fancy ingredients or tricky steps to make them happen—just a handful of pantry staples, a few minutes, and a big appetite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed at how a few basic ingredients come together to create something as magical as these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups! Each component plays a special role—think rich creaminess, comforting spice, and just the right hint of sweetness—to build flavor and texture into every bite.
- Soft white bread: Super soft slices make for easy rolling and that pillowy texture inside each roll-up.
- Cream cheese (softened): The creamy heart of the filling, providing tang and richness reminiscent of classic cinnamon rolls.
- Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness to the filling and keeps it smooth and spreadable.
- Vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor of the cream cheese mixture, giving that warm, aromatic note.
- Granulated sugar: Forms a sparkly cinnamon sugar coating that gives crunch and sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: The star spice that brings everything together—don’t be shy!
- Large eggs: The key to getting that soft, custardy French toast texture on the outside.
- Milk: Helps loosen the egg mixture so it soaks into the bread just right.
- Butter (for cooking): Adds flavor while ensuring those roll-ups fry up evenly and golden-brown.
- Optional toppings (maple syrup, whipped cream, or powdered sugar): Finish your roll-ups with an extra flourish of sweetness and fun!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
Step 1: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
Start by stirring together your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Mix until the filling is dreamy, smooth, and absolutely irresistible. This step adds a luscious, tangy-sweet surprise to the center of every Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Up. If you want to plan ahead, you can make this filling the night before and store it covered in the fridge.
Step 2: Prep the Cinnamon Sugar & Egg Mix
Pour the granulated sugar and cinnamon into a shallow bowl, mixing to create the classic cinnamon sugar blend that gives these roll-ups their sparkle and crunch. In a separate bowl, whisk your eggs and milk together. This dipping mixture transforms the bread into a tender French toast exterior, just waiting to be crisped in the skillet.
Step 3: Flatten & Fill the Bread
Lay out each slice of bread (make sure to cut off those crusts for maximum rollability!) and use a rolling pin to flatten them gently. This step helps the bread hold its shape when rolling. Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each slice—don’t overdo it or you risk oozing! Roll each slice up tightly, just like a cinnamon roll.
Step 4: Dip and Roll
Dip each little roll-up into the egg and milk mixture, making sure all sides are coated. This is the secret to a beautifully golden and custardy outside. Next, they’ll head to the skillet for their transformation!
Step 5: Skillet Time!
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium and melt your butter. Cook the roll-ups, turning every couple of minutes until every surface is an irresistible golden brown. The smell alone will have the whole house gathering in the kitchen. Once cooked, immediately roll them in your cinnamon sugar mixture so the coating sticks perfectly. That extra sugar crunch is absolutely worth it!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
Garnishes
Elevate your warm, fresh-off-the-skillet Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups by showering them with your choice of garnishes. A classic dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy touch, while maple syrup gives gooey sweetness. For an ultra-decadent finish, pile on the whipped cream. Fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce are fun ways to get creative, too.
Side Dishes
These roll-ups shine bright on their own but pair beautifully with savory sides! Try serving them alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for flavor balance. If you’re hosting brunch, a simple fruit salad, Greek yogurt, or scrambled eggs make perfect companions. The combination of sweet and savory brings the whole meal together in harmony.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-worthy treat, skewer your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups and arrange them upright on a platter, or cut them in half for perfect bite-sized appetizers. Serve them in muffin liners for a no-mess brunch buffet, or set up a “roll-up bar” with bowls of various toppings—let everyone personalize their own mini masterpiece!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If (big if!) you have any leftovers, simply slide them into an airtight container and pop them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days. Avoid stacking them directly on top of one another to keep that precious cinnamon sugar coating intact.
Freezing
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups freeze impressively well! Let them cool completely, place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to two months. When you need a quick sweet bite, just pull as many as you like from the freezer—no need to wait for a special occasion.
Reheating
To bring leftover roll-ups back to their best, reheat them in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for about 8–10 minutes, or give them a quick spin in the air fryer for a crispy finish (about 5 minutes). The microwave works for speed, though it won’t restore that signature crunch. Add fresh toppings after reheating for that just-made magic!
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups?
Absolutely! While soft white bread makes for easy rolling and a classic taste, feel free to experiment with whole wheat, brioche, or even cinnamon swirl bread for an extra boost of flavor. Just ensure the bread is soft enough to flatten and roll without cracking.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese filling a day or two in advance and refrigerate it. Make sure to let it soften slightly before spreading so it’s easy to work with and doesn’t tear the bread.
How can I prevent the roll-ups from unrolling while cooking?
Rolling them tightly and placing the seam-side down in the skillet first helps them stay together as they cook. If you’re worried, you can secure the roll-up with a toothpick during the initial cooking, then remove it before coating with cinnamon sugar.
Are these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups gluten-free?
They’re not gluten-free as written, but you could easily substitute your favorite soft gluten-free bread for a similar result. Be gentle, as some gluten-free breads tend to be more delicate and may require a little extra care when rolling.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Definitely! Simply use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy), and a vegan butter alternative. The roll-ups will still turn out creamy, dreamy, and absolutely delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a breakfast that brings smiles every single time, you just can’t go wrong with Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups. They’re quick to make, outrageously tasty, and always a hit with family and friends. I hope you give them a try—your mornings (or midnight snacks) will never be the same!
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 roll-ups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious fusion of cinnamon rolls and French toast with these delectable Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups. A perfect breakfast or dessert treat!
Ingredients
Bread:
8 slices soft white bread (crusts removed)
Cream Cheese Filling:
4 oz cream cheese (softened), 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Egg Mixture:
2 large eggs, 1/4 cup milk
For Cooking:
2 tablespoons butter
Optional Toppings:
maple syrup, whipped cream, or powdered sugar
Instructions
- Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In another shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Egg Mixture: In a third bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Roll-Ups: Flatten each slice of bread with a rolling pin. Spread cream cheese mixture, roll tightly. Dip in egg mixture.
- Cooking: Heat skillet, melt butter. Cook roll-ups until golden brown. Coat with cinnamon sugar.
- Serve warm with optional toppings.
Notes
- You can prepare the cream cheese filling ahead of time and refrigerate.
- Try using cinnamon swirl bread for extra flavor.
- Roll-ups freeze well—reheat in the oven or air fryer for a quick treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll-up
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
