Imagine all the goodness of a cinnamon roll combined with the crispy edge of French toast—rolled into one irresistible bite. These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are the ultimate breakfast treat or weekend brunch idea. They’re crisp on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside, and perfect for dipping into creamy icing. Ideal for families, holiday mornings, or anytime you crave indulgence in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Fast and Fun: Ready in under 30 minutes—great for busy mornings.
Kid-Friendly: Sweet, dippable, and handheld—ideal for little hands.
Perfect Texture: Crispy outside, melty cinnamon center, soft middle.
Versatile: Can double as dessert or a party finger food.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Cinnamon Butter Filling:

1/2 cup + 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened – Divided use; forms the rich base of the filling and used for pan-frying and icing.
1/4 cup light brown sugar – Adds deep caramel notes and sweetness to the filling.
1 tbsp ground cinnamon – Essential for that classic cinnamon roll flavor.

For the Roll-Ups:

8 slices thick, soft bread (crusts removed) – Acts as the base; soft and pliable for rolling.
2 eggs – Helps bind the coating and adds richness.
1/4 cup milk – Thins out the egg mixture for dipping.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds aromatic sweetness.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweet outer crunch.
1 tsp cinnamon – Classic spice for coating.

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

1 1/2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness to the icing.
1/2 cup cream cheese, room temperature – The creamy base of the glaze.
1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar – Sweetens and smooths the icing.

Tips and Tricks:

Use Day-Old Bread: It holds its shape better when rolled and dipped.
Don’t Oversoak: A quick dip in the egg mixture is all you need—too much will make them soggy.
Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan for even browning.
Warm the Icing: Microwave for 10–15 seconds if you prefer it pourable.

Variations and Customizations:

Add a Banana Slice: Roll a banana slice inside for a fruity twist.
Stuff with Nutella or Biscoff: Use as a sweet spread before rolling.
Top with Crushed Nuts: Sprinkle with toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
Use Whole Wheat Bread: A slightly healthier spin without sacrificing flavor.

Pairing Suggestions:

Serve With:
- Fresh berries or a fruit salad
Drinks to Match:
- Vanilla latte
- Chai tea
- Freshly squeezed orange juice

Storage Instructions:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freeze: Freeze before frying (wrapped in plastic) for up to 1 month.
Reheat: Toast in the oven or air fryer at 350°F until warm and crispy.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 roll-ups 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Fluffy bread rolled with cinnamon sugar, crisped to golden perfection, and dunked in creamy icing—breakfast magic in every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

½ cup + 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (divided)
¼ cup light brown sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
8 slices thick, soft white bread (crusts removed)
2 eggs
¼ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1½ tbsp unsalted butter, softened
½ cup cream cheese, room temperature
¼ cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Butter

In a bowl, combine ½ cup butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and spreadable.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Trim crusts from each bread slice.
Flatten with a rolling pin until thin.
Spread a thin layer of cinnamon butter on each slice, then roll tightly.

Step 3: Dip in Egg Mixture

In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Dip each roll into the mixture, coating all sides but not soaking.

Step 4: Fry the Roll-Ups

Heat the remaining 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Cook each roll for 2–3 minutes per side, turning until golden brown.

Step 5: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon.
Roll each cooked roll-up in the cinnamon sugar while still warm.

Step 6: Make the Icing

Combine 1½ tbsp butter, cream cheese, and confectioners’ sugar in a bowl.
Whisk until smooth. Serve as a dip or drizzle over the roll-ups.

Notes

These roll-ups are best served warm and fresh, right off the skillet.
They’re fun to eat, easy to serve, and guaranteed to wow at any brunch table.
Perfect for holidays, breakfast-for-dinner nights, or sweet treats with coffee.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American