Estimated reading time: 11 minutes
Introduction
There’s something about cinnamon roll French toast that takes breakfast to a wonderfully sweet level. Maybe it’s the swirl of sugar and spice baked into soft bread. Or perhaps it’s the excuse to whip up a delightful morning treat for the entire family without too much fuss. Whatever it is, I’m convinced this dish is a spectacular way to greet the day, especially when the weekend rolls around.
Growing up, Sunday mornings meant pancakes or waffles in my house. My parents loved to treat us kids to something special after a long week. As I got older and started cooking for my own family, I discovered an even fancier side of breakfast: French toast. And as a cinnamon roll fanatic, I realized I could bring these two worlds together for a sweet, comforting creation: cinnamon roll French toast. It’s truly my go-to treat when I want to spoil my loved ones (and myself) with something a little extra special.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast: My Favorite Weekend Indulgence
Why I Love This Recipe
I remember the first time I tried combining cinnamon swirl bread with my usual French toast batter. My kids were in the kitchen, waiting impatiently for whatever Mom was rustling up. One whiff of that buttery cinnamon goodness, and they were pushing each other to be first at the table. The best part is, this recipe is surprisingly easy to put together. We’re just talking about dipping slices of cinnamon-swirled bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, vanilla, and a few other goodies. It’s simple enough to make on a lazy Saturday morning, yet impressive enough to serve when company comes over for brunch.
The Aroma That Steals the Show
If you’re a fan of sweet spices, you already know that the smell of cinnamon is absolutely magical. It somehow reminds me of holidays, cozy family gatherings, and my grandma’s baking marathons. When you cook cinnamon roll French toast, your kitchen will smell like a bakery in the best way possible. And if your family is anything like mine, they’ll wander in from every corner of the house, following that delicious scent like bees to honey.
Ingredients and Kitchen Essentials
To keep this recipe nice and simple, I like to rely on staple items I almost always have in my pantry or fridge. This is what you’ll need:
- Bread: Cinnamon swirl bread (homemade or store-bought). If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own homemade cinnamon swirl bread, but a good grocery-store loaf works fine.
- Eggs: 3 large eggs (if you like a richer batter, you can use 4).
- Milk: 1 cup of whole milk (feel free to sub half-and-half for extra creaminess).
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for flavor.
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (yes, more cinnamon… because we can never have too much!).
- Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness.
- Butter: For greasing the skillet or griddle.
- Cream Cheese Icing (Optional): 4 ounces softened cream cheese, 2 tablespoons softened butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk (plus more if needed for thinning).
You’ll also want a wide, shallow bowl for the custard mixture. A non-stick skillet or griddle is perfect for cooking your toast to a beautiful golden color. Make sure you have a spatula handy so you can flip each slice without losing that nice cinnamon swirl.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast (Step by Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Roll Bread
If you’re lucky enough to have a bakery nearby that sells homemade cinnamon swirl bread, grab a loaf from there. The fresher, the better. If you’d like to make your own swirl bread, it can be a fun weekend project, especially if you’re baking with kids. But let’s be honest—time is often short. You can find a store-bought cinnamon swirl loaf that works wonders.
Tip: If your bread is very fresh and soft, I recommend letting it sit out for a few hours so it dries slightly. This helps the slices soak up the custard without falling apart.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In your shallow bowl, whisk together:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Cinnamon
- A little pinch of salt
Keep mixing until the eggs are well broken up and the cinnamon is nicely distributed. This mixture should look light brown and a bit frothy on top.
Step 3: Dip and Soak
Take each slice of cinnamon swirl bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Allow it to soak for a moment on each side, but be mindful not to soak it to the point of sogginess. You want the bread to be thoroughly coated yet still able to hold its shape.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat a pat of butter in your skillet over medium heat. Once it’s melted and slightly bubbly, place a slice of the custard-soaked bread in the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until you get that gorgeous golden-brown color. Adjust the heat if you notice the butter starting to burn or the toast browning too quickly.
I like to keep a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F) so I can place finished slices inside to stay warm while I cook the rest.
Step 5: Cream Cheese Icing (Optional but Oh So Good!)
If you want to go all out (I usually do!), whip up a quick cream cheese icing. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy whisk, combine:
- Softened cream cheese
- Softened butter
- Powdered sugar
- Milk
Start slow so the powdered sugar doesn’t fly everywhere, then increase speed until you get a thick, spreadable consistency. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar. Drizzle or spread this over your cooked French toast slices. It’s one of those sweet breakfast treats you won’t forget!
Overnight Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole Variation
Sometimes life gets busy, and you need a dish that can be mostly prepped the night before. That’s where an overnight cinnamon roll French toast casserole comes in handy. This is a super easy breakfast casserole recipe that allows you to relax in the morning because most of the work happens before you go to bed.
Why an Overnight Casserole?
If you’re hosting a brunch party, have a busy schedule, or simply prefer to do the bulk of the work ahead of time, this casserole version is your friend. By assembling everything the night before, the flavors get friendly while you sleep, and you don’t have to stand over the stovetop in the morning.
Assembly and Baking Tips
- Cube your cinnamon swirl bread: Instead of slicing, cut the bread into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a buttered baking dish.
- Mix the custard: Whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Pour it over the bread: Make sure all cubes get a good soak. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake: In the morning, preheat the oven to 350°F. Uncover the casserole and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Add toppings: You can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top, drizzle with maple syrup, or whip up that cream cheese icing and spread it over the casserole. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set.
Flavor Twists and Fun Toppings
One of my favorite things about cinnamon roll French toast is how easy it is to experiment with toppings. You can keep it simple or dress it up any way you like. Below are a few ideas:
Chocolatey Dream
For the true chocolate lovers out there, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to your custard mix. Then, when serving, drizzle chocolate syrup or sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the top. It’s like a dessert-for-breakfast situation that might get you out of bed faster than any alarm clock.
Berry Delight
Seasonal berries can bring bright flavors and a pop of color to your plate. Sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries are all fantastic choices. I especially love pairing fresh strawberries with homemade whipped cream on top of a sweet cinnamon base.
Classic Maple Drizzle
Sometimes, nothing beats traditional maple syrup. The cozy flavor of maple against that cinnamon-sugar swirl is a match made in breakfast heaven. If you have real maple syrup on hand, that’s always ideal. Warm it up slightly for an extra comforting touch.
Nuts for Crunch
For added texture, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over your finished slices. The crunch balances the creamy softness of the dish. You could also swirl some peanut butter into your custard for a nutty spin, but be mindful of any allergies in the family or among guests.
Serving Suggestions and Party Ideas
Cinnamon roll French toast is already a decadent brunch recipe all on its own. But if you’re looking to round out your breakfast or brunch spread, here are some suggestions:
- Fresh Fruit Bowl: The sweetness of the French toast pairs well with the natural sweetness and freshness of fruits like melon, pineapple, or grapes.
- Savory Sides: Crispy bacon, breakfast sausage links, or even a veggie omelet make a great savory contrast to the sweet toast.
- Beverages: Serve up some fresh orange juice, a pot of coffee, or even iced tea for a refreshing balance to the sugary main dish. If you’re celebrating, mimosas or Bloody Marys can add a festive touch.
- Brunch Party Layout: If you’re hosting, set up a toppings bar with maple syrup, whipped cream, berries, nuts, and icing. Let your guests dress their French toast to their liking. It’s interactive and fun.
Cinnamon roll French toast also makes an impressive addition to potluck brunch gatherings. Prepare a large batch or whip up the overnight casserole version so you can bring something sweet and memorable to the table. It’s almost guaranteed to disappear in minutes.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Although cinnamon roll French toast is best served fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, pop the slices into a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a quick zap in the microwave will do, but the texture can get a bit soft. For the best results, reheat in a way that keeps the edges slightly crisp.
For the overnight cinnamon roll French toast casserole, any leftovers can be refrigerated in the same baking dish, covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven. If you plan on storing the casserole long-term, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs About Cinnamon Roll French Toast
What is the best bread to use for cinnamon roll French toast?
I’ve found that a sturdy loaf of cinnamon swirl bread works best. Homemade cinnamon swirl bread is wonderful if you have time, but a store-bought loaf from a good bakery is perfectly fine. The goal is to get bread with a clear swirl and a strong crumb so it doesn’t turn to mush when soaked.
Can I make cinnamon roll French toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can. If you’d like a quick morning option, the overnight cinnamon roll French toast casserole is a great solution. Assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Then just bake in the morning. For single-slice French toast, you can also soak your bread a few hours in advance, but be careful not to over-soak or it can become too soggy.
How do you make cinnamon roll French toast casserole?
You’ll cut your cinnamon roll bread into cubes, place them in a buttered baking dish, and pour a mixture of eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt on top. Cover it and let it rest in the fridge (preferably overnight). The next morning, bake at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.
What toppings go well with cinnamon roll French toast?
Classic choices include maple syrup, powdered sugar, and a bit of butter. If you really want to go all out, drizzle some cream cheese icing on top. Fresh berries, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or even caramel sauce work beautifully too.
Is cinnamon roll French toast suitable for brunch parties?
Absolutely! It’s sweet, eye-catching, and easy to prepare. If you need a brunch dish that wows your guests, cinnamon roll French toast—especially as an overnight casserole—can really hit the spot.
Other French Toast Favorites
If you love comforting French toast variations, you might also enjoy these ideas on my site:
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch Shot – A playful twist for adults who adore cinnamon flavor.
- Sourdough French Toast: A Cozy Brunch Tradition – Slight tang meets sweet toppings in this comforting dish.
- Hawaiian Roll French Toast – Soft, sweet rolls meet a classic custard soak.
- Brioche French Toast Casserole – A rich and pillowy option for those who love buttery flavor.
- Croissant Toast Breakfast Recipe – A flaky, fancy approach to morning indulgence.
External Links for More Tasty Tidbits:
- Interested in the history of how French toast came to be? Here’s a fascinating article from History.com explaining that it didn’t originate in France.
- Curious about different types of cinnamon? This guide from The Spruce Eats will give you some insight on what’s out there.
- Ever wondered about the origins of cream cheese? Wikipedia’s cream cheese page offers lots of background.
Conclusion
In my house, cinnamon roll French toast is a special treat that never fails to delight. It brings together the classic comfort of French toast with the sweet, spiced charm of cinnamon rolls. Whether you’re preparing single slices for a quick family breakfast or putting together an overnight cinnamon roll French toast casserole for a big gathering, it’s a surefire way to start the day with a smile.
I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and even put your own creative spin on it. Maybe add a special topping, swap in a unique type of cinnamon swirl bread, or serve it alongside your favorite breakfast drinks. Whatever you choose, it’s bound to taste incredible. Let me know how your version turned out in the comments—sharing these cooking moments with you all always makes me happy!