Name: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 thick slices white bread (day old, crusts removed); 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; Pinch of salt; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 3 tbsp butter, divided; Maple syrup, for serving

Jump to Recipe

If you have a soft spot for warm, gooey breakfasts that feel like a little hug on a plate, you are absolutely going to adore these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites. Think of fluffy, bite-sized pieces of day-old bread dipped in a rich egg custard, pan-fried to caramelized perfection, then rolled in that irresistible cinnamon sugar blend that makes cinnamon rolls legendary. This recipe transforms a simple morning routine into a dynamic flavor explosion that’s perfect for sharing or sneaking bites all by yourself. The magic of Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites is in their ease, their nostalgic taste, and the way they pair that cherished cinnamon roll flavor with the comforting texture of French toast in every single bite.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward yet incredibly essential, each contributing key elements of flavor, texture, and color to make your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites shine. From the simple foundation of bread to the cinnamon-sugar topping, every component works in harmony to create a mouthwatering treat.

4 thick slices white bread (day old, crusts removed): Day-old bread holds up better when dipped, and removing crust makes each bite tender and uniform.
2 large eggs: Eggs form the custard base that gives the bites their rich and silky texture.
1/4 cup milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth soaking mixture for the bread.
Pinch of salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavor in the egg mixture.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: For coating the fried bites, giving that satisfying sugary crunch.
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that fills these bites with warm, aromatic delight.
3 tbsp butter, divided: Used to fry the bites, adding golden color and rich buttery flavor.
Maple syrup, for serving: The perfect finishing touch that adds a natural sweetness and syrupy drizzle.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Step 1: Prep the Bread Cubes

Start by cutting each thick slice of day-old white bread into 9 equal cubes. Using day-old bread is key because it’s a bit drier, so it soaks up the custard beautifully without falling apart. Removing the crusts helps keep each bite soft and consistent, making the final texture delightfully tender.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until fully combined. This custard mixture is where the magic begins, as it coats each bread cube with just the right silky richness that crisps up beautifully on the stove.

Step 3: Combine the Cinnamon Sugar

In a separate shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar with the ground cinnamon. This simple blend will create that classic cinnamon roll flavor, enveloping your hot French toast bites in a fragrant, sugary coating that’s utterly irresistible.

Step 4: Fry Half the Bread Cubes

Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Dip half of your bread cubes into the egg mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Place them in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, gently tossing to brown all sides evenly until golden and crispy. The sizzling butter and custard bathing form the perfect crust here.

Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While still hot, immediately toss the fried bread cubes in your cinnamon sugar mixture. The heat allows the sugar to stick and melt slightly, creating a sticky sweet shell that’s oh so satisfying to bite into.

Step 6: Repeat for Remaining Bread

Wipe out your skillet if needed, then add the remaining 2 1/2 tablespoons of butter. Repeat the dipping, frying, and coating process with the rest of your bread cubes for double the deliciousness.

Step 7: Serve Warm with Maple Syrup

Arrange your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites on a platter or plate and serve immediately while warm. Offer maple syrup on the side for dipping or drizzling — it adds the perfect sticky-sweet finish that complements the cinnamon sugar crust beautifully.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Garnishes

Adding a little extra flair to your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites is a breeze. Freshly whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a scattering of chopped pecans or walnuts give a lovely textural contrast. A few fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder can brighten the plate and add a pop of color and freshness that makes the dish even more inviting.

Side Dishes

These bites are a delight on their own but pair beautifully with classic breakfast sides like crispy bacon, fresh fruit salad, or even scrambled eggs. The salty crunch of bacon balances the sweet cinnamon flavor perfectly, while a fruit salad adds juiciness and a refreshing counterpoint, making the breakfast plate well-rounded and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in mini mason jars with layers of cream cheese frosting and fruit for a parfait-style breakfast treat. They also make fantastic finger food at brunch parties stacked on skewers with fresh strawberries and mini marshmallows. Presentation options are endless and sure to impress your guests!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites in an airtight container. They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days without losing their wonderful texture or flavor, making them ideal for quick breakfasts during busy mornings.

Freezing

You can freeze these bites for longer storage by spreading them out on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully and can be stored for up to 2 months, perfect for prepping in advance.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the bites in a 350°F oven for about 8–10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to retain their crunchy exterior, as the oven method brings back that delightful texture just like fresh.

FAQs

Can I use bread other than white bread for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?

Absolutely! While thick white bread gives you the classic soft and fluffy texture, you can experiment with brioche, challah, or even sourdough for different flavors and bite textures. Just make sure it’s a bit stale so it holds up to soaking.

Is it necessary to remove the crust from the bread?

Removing the crust is not absolutely required, but it helps keep the bites uniformly soft and tender, which makes for a more pleasant mouthfeel, especially for those who aren’t crust fans.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Use a dairy-free butter substitute for frying, and you’ll still get that buttery crispy finish and custardy flavor.

How do I prevent the cinnamon sugar from becoming soggy?

Coating the bites immediately while they’re hot after frying helps the cinnamon sugar stick without making them soggy. Also, refrigerate leftovers uncovered briefly before sealing to keep some of the crispness intact.

What is the best kind of maple syrup to use?

Pure maple syrup is the gold standard, bringing a natural, rich sweetness that complements the warm cinnamon perfectly. Avoid artificially flavored syrups if you want that authentic cozy breakfast vibe.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a delightful way to bring together the best of cinnamon rolls and French toast in one fun, bite-sized package. They are easy to make, utterly delicious, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack. I hope you try making them soon and enjoy every warm, cinnamon-scented bite as much as I do!

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 30 reviews

Author: Andria
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 36 bites (approximately 4 servings) 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a delightful breakfast treat combining the soft, custardy texture of French toast with the sweet, spicy flavor of cinnamon sugar reminiscent of cinnamon rolls. Bite-sized and perfect for dipping in maple syrup, they make a fun and easy morning snack or brunch option.

Ingredients

Scale

French Toast Bites

4 thick slices white bread (day old, crusts removed)
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
Pinch of salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp butter, divided

For Serving

Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the bread: Cut each slice of bread into 9 equal cubes to create bite-sized pieces perfect for frying and dipping.
Make the egg mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and slightly frothy.
Mix cinnamon sugar: In a separate shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon evenly to create the coating.
Cook the first half: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Dip half of the bread cubes into the egg mixture, ensuring they are fully coated, then fry them in the skillet for 2 to 3 minutes, tossing occasionally until all sides are golden brown.
Coat with cinnamon sugar: Immediately after frying, transfer the hot bread cubes to the cinnamon sugar mixture and toss to coat them thoroughly with the sweet cinnamon coating.
Cook the remaining bread: Repeat the process with the remaining butter and bread cubes: melt the butter, dip the bread in the egg mixture, fry until golden, and then coat in cinnamon sugar.
Serve: Serve the cinnamon roll French toast bites warm with maple syrup on the side for dipping.

Notes

Using day-old bread helps the bread hold together better when dipped and cooked.
Removing crusts makes the bites more tender and uniform.
Adjust the cinnamon to sugar ratio based on your sweetness and spice preference.
You can substitute white bread with brioche or challah for an even richer flavor.
Serve immediately for the best texture; leftovers can be reheated gently.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Pan-frying
Cuisine: American