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Cinnamon French toast roll-ups turn everyday bread into something special with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl inside and a golden-crisp French toast finish. They are quick to make and guaranteed to turn any breakfast into a treat. Whether you want a cozy brunch centerpiece or just a sweet way to use up extra bread, these little rolls deliver warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
I first tried these roll-ups one lazy Sunday with leftover bread and a craving for comfort. Now my niece requests them every time she visits and everyone loves how they feel like a celebration.
Ingredients
- Soft sandwich bread: Soft texture helps each roll bend and keeps the French toast feel
- Brown sugar: Fresh and soft brown sugar melts to a gooey center
- Ground cinnamon: Choose a fragrant and bright cinnamon for bold cozy flavor
- Butter: Real butter makes for a rich spread and golden frying
- Eggs: Fresh eggs give the coating its classic custard taste
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps the coating stick
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash brings warmth and delicious bakery scent
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Bread:
- Remove the crusts and gently flatten each slice with a rolling pin Aim for a thin even sheet to prevent cracks and help with rolling
- Make the Filling:
- Mix melted butter brown sugar and cinnamon together until smooth Spread this blend on each bread slice all the way to the edges
- Roll Them Up:
- Tightly roll each slice up with the filling inside Press lightly at the seam to help seal and keep the cinnamon sugar inside
- Prepare the Batter:
- Whisk eggs milk cinnamon and vanilla in a shallow dish until smooth This mixture will coat the outside of the bread rolls
- Dip and Fry:
- Heat butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat Dip each roll in the egg batter then place seam side down in the pan Cook turning on all sides until golden and crisp
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Cinnamon is truly the magic in this recipe Its warm aroma brings back memories of breakfasts at my grandmother’s house and every time I make these the kitchen fills with that same sense of comfort
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in the fridge up to three days in an airtight container. Warm them back up in a skillet or oven for best crispness. Avoid microwaving since it can make the bread soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of brown sugar use coconut sugar or maple sugar for rich flavor. Full-fat milk is the next best option if you do not have whole milk but try to avoid skim. Dry bread softens if you wrap it in a damp towel and zap it in the microwave for a few seconds before rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Pile the roll-ups on a plate with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup or honey. Pair with fresh berries and scrambled eggs for a brunch-worthy spread. Kids love dipping them into yogurt or chocolate sauce too.
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Cultural Context
This sweet mashup takes inspiration from old-world cinnamon rolls and classic French toast. Cinnamon rolls have roots in the baking traditions of Northern Europe. French toast or pain perdu dates back centuries as a French way to revive old bread and is always about comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white?
Whole wheat bread works, but white bread creates a softer texture and rolls more easily without cracking.
- → How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Flatten bread thoroughly, avoid overfilling, and seal edges firmly. Cook seam-side down first to prevent leaks.
- → Can these roll-ups be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate overnight or freeze up to one month for a make-ahead breakfast option.
- → What is the best method to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, or warm in a 300°F oven until crisp and heated through.
- → Are there alternative fillings I can use?
Absolutely. Try cream cheese, Nutella, fruit preserves, or other favorite spreads for fun flavor variations.