Cinnamon Roll French Toast is one of my favorite breakfast treats when I want something cozy, sweet, and comforting. I take classic cinnamon rolls and turn them into a golden, custardy French toast that feels extra special but is surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for slow weekends, brunch gatherings, or anytime I crave a warm and indulgent start to my day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe combines two breakfast favorites into one irresistible dish. The cinnamon rolls soak up the rich custard mixture, creating a soft interior with a lightly crisp, golden exterior. I also appreciate how simple and quick it is to prepare, especially when I use store-bought cinnamon rolls. It feels impressive, yet it requires minimal effort. I can easily dress it up with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream to make it feel bakery-worthy at home.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
6 large cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade)
3 large eggs
1 cup milk (whole or your choice)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Butter or cooking spray (for the pan)
Maple syrup (for serving)
Directions
First, I prepare the custard by whisking together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish until everything is well combined.
Next, I slice each cinnamon roll into 3 or 4 thick slices. I like keeping the slices thick so they hold their shape when dipped.
Then, I dip each slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly. I make sure not to let them soak too long so they don’t become too soft.
After that, I heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter or lightly coat it with cooking spray. I cook the dipped slices for about 2–3 minutes per side, until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
Finally, I serve them warm with maple syrup drizzled on top. Sometimes I like to add fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4 servings, depending on how large I slice the cinnamon rolls and how many pieces I serve per person.
Preparation time takes about 10 minutes, including mixing the custard and slicing the rolls. Cooking time is around 10–12 minutes, depending on how many batches I cook. In total, I usually have this ready in about 20–25 minutes.
Variations
I enjoy experimenting with this recipe to change things up. Sometimes I add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of maple extract to the custard for deeper flavor. I also like stirring a bit of cream cheese into the egg mixture for extra richness.
For a fruity twist, I serve it with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or caramelized bananas. When I want something more decadent, I drizzle caramel sauce on top or sprinkle powdered sugar over the finished slices.
If I use homemade cinnamon rolls, I sometimes spread a little of the included icing on top right after cooking so it melts beautifully over the warm French toast.
Storage/Reheating
If I have leftovers, I let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I prefer warming the slices in a skillet over low heat to bring back some of the crisp edges. I can also use a toaster oven for a few minutes. If I’m in a hurry, I microwave them for about 20–30 seconds, though the texture is softer this way.
I can also freeze the cooked slices by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months, and I reheat them straight from frozen in the oven or toaster oven.
Related Recipes:
FAQs
Can I use day-old cinnamon rolls?
Yes, I actually find that slightly stale cinnamon rolls work very well. They absorb the custard mixture without becoming too soggy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
I can substitute the milk with almond milk, oat milk, or another dairy-free option. I also use dairy-free butter or cooking spray for the pan.
How do I prevent the slices from falling apart?
I make sure to cut thick slices and avoid soaking them too long in the custard. A quick dip on each side is enough to coat them without weakening their structure.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
I can mix the custard a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. I prefer dipping and cooking the slices fresh for the best texture.
What toppings go best with Cinnamon Roll French Toast?
I love classic maple syrup, but I also enjoy fresh berries, whipped cream, powdered sugar, caramel sauce, or even a drizzle of the cinnamon roll icing for extra sweetness.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll French Toast is one of those recipes I return to again and again when I want something comforting and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how simple ingredients transform into a warm, golden breakfast that feels like a treat. Whether I’m making it for family brunch or a quiet morning at home, this recipe always delivers cozy, delicious results.
📖 Recipe:
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cinnamon Roll French Toast combines soft, sweet cinnamon rolls with a rich vanilla custard, pan-fried until golden brown and served warm with maple syrup for a cozy, indulgent breakfast.
Ingredients
6 large cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade)
3 large eggs
1 cup milk (whole or preferred choice)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Butter or cooking spray (for the pan)
Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Slice each cinnamon roll into 3 to 4 thick slices to help them hold their shape.
- Dip each slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly without soaking too long.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter or lightly coat with cooking spray.
- Cook the dipped slices for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with maple syrup and optional toppings like fresh fruit or whipped cream.
Notes
Slightly stale cinnamon rolls work best as they absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
For dairy-free options, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.
Cut thick slices and avoid over-soaking to prevent the rolls from falling apart.
You can prepare the custard mixture a few hours in advance and refrigerate it.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 170 mg
