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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites - featured image

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are golden, fluffy, and packed with cinnamon-sugar flavor, delivering all the comfort of classic cinnamon rolls in a quick, bite-sized breakfast treat. Perfect for sharing at brunch or enjoying a cozy weekend morning, they’re finished with a dreamy vanilla glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (about 200g) brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup (240ml) whole milk (or 2% or dairy-free alternative)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream (optional, or sub more milk)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (plus 1/2 teaspoon for glaze)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter, melted (plus more for pan)
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 12 tablespoons milk or cream (for glaze)
  • Optional toppings: chopped pecans, mini chocolate chips, fresh berries

Instructions

  1. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups). If bread is very fresh, dry cubes on a baking sheet for 30 minutes or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, mix 2 tablespoons melted butter, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons brown sugar until crumbly.
  3. Add bread cubes to cinnamon-sugar mixture and toss until evenly coated.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
  5. Add coated bread cubes to the custard and gently toss to soak. Let sit for 30-60 seconds.
  6. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter and swirl to coat.
  7. Add soaked bread cubes in a single layer. Cook 2-3 minutes per side, turning gently, until all sides are golden and crisp. Work in batches if needed, adding more butter as necessary.
  8. While bites cook, whisk together powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
  9. Transfer cooked French toast bites to a plate. Drizzle with glaze while warm. Top with pecans, chocolate chips, or berries if desired.
  10. Serve immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Notes

Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best texture. Don’t overcrowd the pan for crisp edges. For a dairy-free or gluten-free version, substitute as needed. To bake instead of pan-frying, arrange soaked cubes in a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway. Glaze can be flavored with orange zest for a citrus twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon roll french toast, french toast bites, easy breakfast, brunch recipe, cinnamon sugar, vanilla glaze, kid friendly, skillet breakfast, sweet breakfast, weekend brunch