Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The Comfort of Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe

There’s something truly cozy about waking up to a breakfast that feels like a warm hug. The Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe is exactly that kind of treat—golden, velvety, and lightly crisp on the outside, with an indulgently soft, cinnamon-sweet center. I love how it brings the nostalgic joy of cinnamon rolls and classic French toast together, but with a fun, handheld twist that makes breakfast feel extra special. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving something comforting for yourself, these roll-ups come together surprisingly fast. You’ll notice the aromatic cinnamon and subtle vanilla notes that add layers of flavor without fuss. And because each bite is bursting with cream cheese sweetness balanced by that classic cinnamon-sugar crunch, it’s impossible to stop at just one. From a busy weekday morning to a relaxed weekend brunch, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe fits seamlessly into your routine. It’s proof that simple ingredients and a little love can turn an ordinary moment into something memorable.

Ingredient Guide

• Bread (8 slices): Choose a soft, sturdy white or sandwich bread. I prefer slightly stale bread because it rolls better without tearing, but fresh works too.
• Cream cheese (½ cup, softened): Adds rich, velvety creaminess—you can swap with mascarpone for a silkier texture.
• Powdered sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cream cheese filling smoothly without graininess.
• Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The heart of the cinnamon flavor—feel free to increase for more warmth.
• Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Creates that irresistible crisp coating when mixed with cinnamon.
• Eggs (2 large): Acts as the binding bath to soak each roll-up, giving it that French toast custard texture.
• Milk (¼ cup): Lightens the egg mixture and helps create a delicate fluffiness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the entire flavor profile with aromatic sweetness.
• Butter (for cooking): Use for a golden crust and subtle richness—ghee or oil can be alternatives if needed.

Prep Before You Begin

To make your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe a breeze, set everything out beforehand. Soften the cream cheese to room temperature, have your cinnamon-sugar mixture ready, and whisk the eggs just before cooking to keep them fresh. Although this recipe doesn’t require the oven, a hot skillet is key—medium heat works best to get that golden crust without burning. Keep your butter close by for easy pan greasing.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe

1. Flatten each slice of bread using a rolling pin. This step is key to make rolling easier and prevent tearing—the bread should feel pliable and thin but not falling apart.
2. Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar in a bowl until silky smooth. This luscious filling is what sets these roll-ups apart, so take your time ensuring it’s well blended with no lumps.
3. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture over each flattened bread slice. A thin layer works best so you get a balanced creaminess without overpowering the texture.
4. Roll tightly from one edge to the other, forming neat little cylinders. Press gently to seal the edge so they hold together well during cooking.
🚀
Expert Tips to Nail It
Small adjustments that make a big difference in texture, timing, and flavor so your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe turns out reliably amazing.
5. Whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until combined and lightly frothy. This custard bath ensures a tender, flavorful coating.
6. Mix the cinnamon and granulated sugar in another shallow dish. This combination will add that classic, crisp cinnamon-sugar finish on the outside.
7. Heat your skillet over medium heat and add butter. You want the pan hot enough for the roll-ups to sizzle gently without burning—adjust heat as needed during cooking.
8. Dip each roll-up fully into the egg mixture, making sure it soaks evenly but doesn’t get soggy. Let the excess drip off gently.
9. Cook the roll-ups in your skillet for 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye out for that gorgeous golden brown crust developing—it’s your cue to flip.
10. Roll the cooked roll-ups in the cinnamon-sugar mixture immediately after removing from the pan. This step seals in the flavor and gives you that iconic lightly crisp texture we all adore.
11. Serve warm, ideally with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of extra powdered sugar. You’ll love how the combination of creamy, sweet filling and crispy exterior creates the perfect indulgent bite.

Creative Variations for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe

• Swap cream cheese for nut butter and a drizzle of honey for a peanut butter twist.
• Add thin apple slices inside before rolling for a sweet and tart surprise.
• Use whole wheat or brioche bread for richer texture and flavor.
• Sprinkle chopped nuts on the outside after cinnamon-sugar coating for added crunch.
• Try adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the cream cheese filling for a bright citrus note.
• Serve with berry compote or fresh fruit to lighten the dish and add vibrant color.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They lose some crispness but are still delicious.
• Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat to restore crispness, or use a toaster oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving: It tends to make the bread rubbery or soggy instead of crisp.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe FAQs

• Can I use gluten-free bread? Absolutely! Just choose a sturdy gluten-free bread that can hold up when flattened and rolled.
• What if I don’t have cream cheese? You can substitute with ricotta or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture, or even plain yogurt if you’re short on options.
• Can these be made ahead? Yes! Roll and dip them, then keep them refrigerated and cook fresh in the morning for the best texture.
• Can I bake instead of pan-frying? You can bake at 375°F for about 15-18 minutes, turning halfway, but the pan-fried version yields that classic golden crust.
• How do I keep the roll-ups from unrolling? Make sure to press the edges tightly when rolling. If needed, you can use a toothpick during cooking to secure them.

Print