There’s nothing quite like a cozy breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate! Let me introduce you to Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites—a dish that’s not only delicious but also brimming with nostalgic charm. Growing up, my mom would make these delightful bites for special occasions, and the scent of cinnamon filling the kitchen would transport me to a world of marshmallow clouds and syrup rivers.
These bite-sized treats capture all the magic of classic cinnamon rolls but with a playful twist that makes them ideal for sharing (or keeping all to yourself—no judgment here!). Dipping them into a sweet glaze is pure bliss, and their adorable size makes them irresistible. Who can say no to a bite-sized breakfast?
What’s in Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?
Let’s dive into the ingredients that make these bites so special:
Day-Old Bread: Challah or brioche works wonderfully for their richness, but any bread will do. Stale bread soaks up the custard like a dream.
Eggs: A couple of large eggs form the base of the custard, adding protein and helping everything bind together.
Milk: Whole milk is my favorite, but almond or oat milk works for a dairy-free option. It adds a creamy texture to the mix.
Cinnamon: The star of the show! This spice brings warmth and sweetness that ties the dish together.
Sugar: A touch of sugar enhances the sweetness and helps caramelize the bites to perfection.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
Butter: Used for frying, butter adds richness and helps achieve that golden-brown finish. Coconut oil is a great alternative.
Glaze: A simple mix of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla creates the perfect drizzle to top it all off.
Are Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Healthy?
While these bites are a delightful indulgence, here’s a quick look at their health profile:
Bread: Opt for whole-grain varieties to boost fiber content.
Eggs: Packed with protein and essential nutrients, they’re a great addition.
Butter: In moderation, butter can fit into a balanced diet, though lighter options like coconut oil work too.
That said, these bites are rich in sugars and fats, especially from the glaze and frying process. They’re perfect for a special treat rather than an everyday breakfast. Balance is everything, right?
Ingredients
4 slices of day-old bread (challah or brioche preferred)
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (or alternative)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil)
For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
This recipe serves 2-4 people, depending on appetites!
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Prepare the Bread: Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
Make the Custard: Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla in a mixing bowl until smooth.
Soak the Bread: Dip each bread cube into the custard, letting it soak briefly without becoming too soggy.
Heat the Pan: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until it foams.
Fry the Bites: Cook the bread cubes in a single layer until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Make the Glaze: While the bites cook, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth.
Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm bites and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
Pantry Swap: No milk? Use yogurt mixed with water as a substitute.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of maple syrup to the custard for extra depth.
Serving Suggestion: Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for a brunch-worthy presentation.
I hope you give these dreamy bites a try—they’re guaranteed to turn any breakfast into a celebration. If you make them, let me know how it goes in the comments below! Happy cooking!
