The house was still quiet when I tiptoed into the kitchen, chasing that peaceful morning light that pours in just right. I wasn’t in the mood for anything complicated—just something sweet, warm, and totally comforting. That’s when I spotted the tube of cinnamon rolls in the fridge and had a lightbulb moment.
What if cinnamon rolls and French toast had a baby?
Fast-forward 20 minutes, and I had a batch of Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites on the table—golden, buttery, soft in the center, and perfectly crisp on the edges. They were everything I didn’t know I needed and more. The icing drizzle on top? Non-negotiable.
This recipe is a lazy brunch lover’s dream. Quick, cozy, and a guaranteed hit whether you’re feeding sleepyheads on a Sunday morning or need a fun finger-food breakfast for guests.
🍴 Short Description
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are bite-sized pieces of cinnamon roll dough cooked like French toast—crispy on the outside, soft and gooey inside, and finished with a sweet drizzle of icing. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack!
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 tube refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8-count, with icing packet)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp butter (for the skillet)
- Optional: powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh berries for topping
🔧 Tools You’ll Need
- Skillet or non-stick frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cut the cinnamon rolls
Open the cinnamon roll dough and cut each roll into quarters. You’ll end up with about 32 bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Mix the egg batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon.
Step 3: Dip the bites
Gently toss the cinnamon roll pieces in the egg mixture to coat. Don’t soak too long—just enough to absorb the flavor.
Step 4: Cook until golden
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the dipped cinnamon roll pieces in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Warm the icing
While the bites cook, place the included icing packet in a bowl of warm water to soften.
Step 6: Drizzle and serve
Transfer cooked bites to a plate, drizzle with warmed icing, and top with powdered sugar or maple syrup if desired.
💛 Why You’ll Love These Bites
- Super quick and easy (15–20 minutes!)
- Kid-approved and adult-adored
- Fun for brunch spreads, breakfast-for-dinner, or sleepovers
- No utensils needed—just grab and munch
- That sweet icing drizzle? Irresistible.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Pop in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or toast lightly in a pan to restore crispiness.
- Freeze: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze after cooking. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer.
❓ FAQs
Can I use homemade cinnamon roll dough?
Yes! Just cut into small pieces and follow the same steps.
Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
You can! Spread dipped pieces on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make these ahead?
You can prep the egg mixture and cut the dough ahead, but cook them fresh for the best texture.
🥞 Fun Twists & Variations
- Cream Cheese Glaze: Mix cream cheese + powdered sugar + vanilla + milk for a tangy twist.
- Pumpkin Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg and pumpkin pie spice to the egg mix.
- Stuffed Version: Press a mini chocolate chip or berry inside each roll piece before cooking.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry dipped pieces at 350°F for 5–6 minutes for a crispy finish.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are the ultimate shortcut to cozy comfort. No fuss, no complicated steps—just warm, golden bites of cinnamon-sugar heaven that you can pop right into your mouth. They’re sweet, soft, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat without turning your kitchen into a bakery.
Whether you’re planning a weekend brunch or just want something special to go with your morning coffee, these bites are a little moment of joy you can whip up in no time.