If you crave the warm, comforting flavors of a cinnamon roll but love the crispy, custardy delight of French toast, you are going to fall head over heels for this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe. It perfectly combines the best of both breakfasts into one heavenly dish that feels like a special treat any morning of the week. Imagine biting into golden slices of cinnamon swirl bread, soaked in a fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg custard, then topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that melts in your mouth. This recipe is not just delicious, it’s a total crowd-pleaser that will have your kitchen smelling like your favorite bakery in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe is a breeze because the ingredient list is simple but packed with flavor. Each element is chosen to add texture, spice, sweetness, and that perfect custard richness to your final masterpiece.
- 8 slices cinnamon swirl bread: The star of the show, already bursting with cinnamon flavor and ready to soak up custard beautifully.
- 3 large eggs: Provide the creamy structure for the custard soak, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.
- 1 cup milk: Lightens the custard mixture and keeps the French toast soft yet slightly firm on the outside.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds that warm sweetness and aromatic depth to both custard and glaze.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A pinch of ground spice to amplify the cinnamon swirl in the bread for extra warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with its subtle nutty, spicy undertone.
- Butter or oil for cooking: Ensures a golden, delicious crust while cooking each slice to perfection.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: The base for the creamy glaze that ties everything together with a gentle sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Used to achieve the ideal texture for the vanilla glaze—smooth and pourable.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze with that classic vanilla flavor echoing the custard.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
Start by whisking together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl until everything is fully combined and smooth. This custard will soak into your cinnamon swirl bread, infusing each slice with warm, cozy spices and the richness that French toast is famous for.
Step 2: Dip the Bread
Gently dip each slice of cinnamon swirl bread into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are fully coated but not soggy to avoid any mess while cooking. The bread’s swirl pattern means every inch absorbs the custard, creating an irresistibly tender texture inside and out.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little butter or oil. Place the soaked bread into the pan and cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the surface turns golden brown and slightly crisp. This step locks in all the custard goodness while giving you that prized crispy edge you want in great French toast.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Glaze
While your French toast is cooking, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until silky smooth and creamy. You can adjust the consistency depending on your preference—add more milk for a thinner drizzle or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze that sticks to every bite.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the warm cinnamon roll French toast slices and generously drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top. This luscious glaze is the perfect finishing touch, blending all those cinnamon flavors into a sweet, velvety hug for your taste buds. Serve immediately and watch as it disappears fast!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe, consider adding a few fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a juicy burst that complements the sweet glaze. A light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can also add visual appeal and extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
Keep your breakfast balanced and exciting by pairing this dish with a crisp side of bacon or savory sausage links. Fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with citrus dressing can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the French toast.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the cinnamon roll French toast slices for a tall, impressive breakfast tower drizzled with glaze and topped with chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes. Or try serving it French bakery-style on a pretty platter surrounded by dipping sauces like caramel or maple syrup for variety and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe slices, let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to two days, making for a convenient, delicious breakfast even on busy mornings.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cinnamon roll French toast keeps well for up to one month and makes a quick, satisfying indulgence when reheated.
Reheating
For the best results when reheating, toast frozen slices in a toaster oven or bake them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make the texture soggy instead of delightfully crisp.
FAQs
Can I use regular bread instead of cinnamon swirl bread?
You can, but the signature cinnamon flavor is what makes this recipe special. If you use plain bread, consider adding extra cinnamon and sugar to the custard for a similar effect.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe?
Absolutely! Use your favorite plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk, and replace butter with a dairy-free alternative for cooking and glazing. The flavors will still be delightful.
Can I prepare the custard mixture the night before?
Yes, you can mix the custard up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which actually helps the flavors meld beautifully. Just give it a quick whisk before dipping the bread.
What if I don’t have powdered sugar for the glaze?
You can substitute with granulated sugar dissolved in a little warm milk, but powdered sugar gives that smooth, creamy texture that’s hard to beat for the glaze.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap the cinnamon swirl bread for a gluten-free cinnamon bread loaf. Most stores carry options, or you can bake your own. The custard and glaze remain the same.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a special occasion breakfast, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe is sure to become one of your all-time favorites. It’s easy to make, deeply comforting, and just downright delicious. So go ahead—treat yourself and those you love to a plate of warmly spiced, vanilla-glazed perfection. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed French toast any other way!
Print
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Roll French Toast recipe transforms classic cinnamon swirl bread into a decadent breakfast treat. The bread is soaked in a fragrant custard of eggs, milk, and warm spices, then pan-fried to golden perfection. It’s finished with a creamy, vanilla-infused glaze that mimics the luscious icing on cinnamon rolls, making it an indulgent yet simple morning delight perfect for family breakfasts or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices cinnamon swirl bread
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Butter or oil for cooking
Creamy Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until fully combined to create a flavorful custard base.
- Dip the Bread: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter or oil. Dip each slice of cinnamon swirl bread into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated but not soggy.
- Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread slices in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the Creamy Glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.
- Serve: Plate the warm Cinnamon Roll French Toast slices and drizzle the creamy vanilla glaze over each piece generously.
- Enjoy: Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect blend of cinnamon flavors paired with the velvety sweet glaze.
Notes
- Use day-old cinnamon swirl bread for better soaking without falling apart.
- Adjust the glaze consistency to your preference for drizzling or spreading.
- For extra richness, substitute half of the milk with cream or add a pinch of salt to the custard.
- Butter or neutral oil like canola works well for frying; avoid olive oil as it may affect flavor.
- Serve with fresh fruit or a dusting of extra cinnamon for garnish.
