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Breakfast / Cinnamon Roll French Toast: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe

Cinnamon Roll French Toast: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe

June 30, 2025 by shareylady

Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Prepare to experience a breakfast revelation! Imagine the gooey, cinnamon-spiced goodness of a freshly baked cinnamon roll, transformed into a decadent and utterly irresistible French toast. Yes, you read that right! This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a culinary adventure that will redefine your weekend brunch game.

While the exact origins of combining cinnamon rolls and French toast remain shrouded in delicious mystery, the concept itself speaks to our inherent love of comfort food mashups. Both cinnamon rolls and French toast hold a special place in our hearts, evoking memories of cozy mornings and family gatherings. Cinnamon rolls, with their Scandinavian roots and widespread popularity, represent warmth and indulgence. French toast, a dish with ancient Roman origins, offers a delightful way to repurpose stale bread into something truly special.

What makes this Cinnamon Roll French Toast so incredibly appealing? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The soft, pillowy interior of the cinnamon roll soaks up the rich custard, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. The caramelized exterior provides a delightful contrast, while the cinnamon-sugar swirl delivers that signature sweet and spicy kick. It’s also surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to a luxurious breakfast, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate breakfast indulgence!

Cinnamon Roll French Toast this Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf (1 pound) challah bread, brioche, or Texas toast, cut into 1-inch thick slices
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

Cinnamon Swirl Filling:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cream Cheese Glaze:

  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk, or more to reach desired consistency
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Preparing the Cinnamon Swirl Filling:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Use a fork or electric mixer to cream the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. This mixture will be spread onto the bread slices to create the cinnamon swirl effect. Make sure the butter is truly softened, but not melted, for the best consistency. If it’s too cold, it will be difficult to spread evenly. If it’s melted, it will run off the bread.

Preparing the French Toast Batter:

  1. In a large, shallow dish (like a baking dish or pie plate), whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. The heavy cream adds richness and helps create a custardy texture. Don’t skip the salt; it enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. Make sure the dish is large enough to easily dip the bread slices without overcrowding.

Assembling the Cinnamon Roll French Toast:

  1. Take one slice of bread and spread a generous layer of the cinnamon swirl filling evenly over one side. Don’t be shy with the filling! The more filling, the more “cinnamon roll” flavor you’ll get. Make sure to spread it all the way to the edges of the bread.
  2. Repeat with all the bread slices. You should have a stack of cinnamon-swirled bread ready to be dipped.

Cooking the French Toast:

  1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. The butter should sizzle gently. If it’s smoking, the heat is too high.
  2. Dip one cinnamon-swirled bread slice into the French toast batter, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated. Let the excess batter drip off before placing it in the hot skillet. Don’t soak the bread for too long, or it will become soggy. A quick dip on each side is usually sufficient.
  3. Repeat with as many bread slices as will comfortably fit in the skillet without overcrowding. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the skillet and result in soggy French toast.
  4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The French toast should be nicely browned and slightly crispy on the outside, and soft and custardy on the inside. Use a spatula to carefully flip the French toast. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. If it’s not browning enough, increase the heat slightly.
  5. Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and place it on a wire rack or a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain any excess butter. This will help keep the French toast crispy.
  6. Repeat steps 1-5 with the remaining bread slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed. You may need to adjust the heat as you continue cooking to maintain a consistent temperature.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Glaze:

  1. While the French toast is cooking, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for the best results. If they are too cold, they will be difficult to blend together smoothly.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This will prevent the powdered sugar from flying everywhere. If the glaze becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
  3. Stir in the milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Add more milk if needed to reach a smooth, pourable consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the French toast but thin enough to drizzle easily.

Serving the Cinnamon Roll French Toast:

  1. Drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm French toast. You can also serve the glaze on the side for dipping.
  2. Serve immediately. The French toast is best enjoyed warm, when the glaze is still soft and the cinnamon swirl filling is gooey.
  3. Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts), or fresh berries. A dusting of powdered sugar also adds a nice touch.

Tips for Success:

  • Use good quality bread: The type of bread you use will greatly affect the final result. Challah, brioche, or Texas toast are all excellent choices because they are rich, dense, and absorb the batter well. Stale bread works best, as it will soak up more of the batter without becoming soggy.
  • Don’t oversoak the bread: Soaking the bread for too long will result in soggy French toast. A quick dip on each side is usually sufficient.
  • Use medium heat: Cooking the French toast over medium heat will ensure that it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Overcrowding the skillet will lower the temperature and result in soggy French toast. Cook the French toast in batches, ensuring that there is enough space between each slice.
  • Keep the French toast warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until ready to serve.
  • Adjust the sweetness to your liking: If you prefer a less sweet French toast, reduce the amount of sugar in the batter and glaze.
  • Add a touch of citrus: A little bit of orange or lemon zest in the batter can add a bright, refreshing flavor.
  • Experiment with different spices: Try adding other spices to the batter, such as cardamom, ginger, or allspice.
  • Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the cinnamon swirl filling and cream cheese glaze ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. The French toast can also be cooked ahead of time and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Variations:

  • Nutella Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Spread Nutella on the bread slices instead of the cinnamon swirl filling.
  • Apple Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Add diced apples to the cinnamon swirl filling.
  • Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the batter and cinnamon swirl filling.
  • Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Sprinkle chocolate chips on top of the cinnamon swirl filling.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Conclusion:

This Cinnamon Roll French Toast isn’t just breakfast; it’s a weekend celebration on a plate! The irresistible combination of gooey cinnamon roll filling, perfectly crisped edges, and that warm, comforting aroma makes it a truly unforgettable treat. I know, I know, you might be thinking, “French toast again?” But trust me, this recipe elevates the classic to a whole new level. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone asking for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s ridiculously easy to make, uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, and delivers a flavor explosion that will brighten even the gloomiest of mornings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cinnamon rolls – if you ever have any! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up a batch of this deliciousness. The straightforward instructions ensure that even beginner cooks can achieve perfect results every time.

But the real magic happens when those cinnamon rolls hit the hot griddle. The sugary glaze caramelizes, creating a delightful crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, pillowy interior. And that cinnamon-spiced aroma? It’s pure heaven! It’s the kind of scent that fills your kitchen with warmth and happiness, making it the perfect way to start your day.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Toppings: A generous drizzle of maple syrup is always a winner. But don’t stop there!
* Berry Bliss: Fresh berries, like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, add a burst of freshness and color.
* Whipped Cream Dream: A dollop of whipped cream takes this French toast to the next level of indulgence.
* Nutty Delight: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added texture and flavor.
* Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle with chocolate sauce or sprinkle with chocolate shavings for a decadent treat.
* Cream Cheese Glaze: For an extra layer of richness, whip up a simple cream cheese glaze with powdered sugar and milk.
* Savory Twist: Believe it or not, this French toast also pairs well with savory toppings! Try serving it with crispy bacon or a fried egg for a sweet and savory brunch.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different toppings and variations to find your perfect combination. Maybe you’ll discover a new favorite! You can also use different types of cinnamon rolls. Store-bought are perfectly fine, but homemade will always add that extra touch of love. Consider using cinnamon rolls with different fillings, like apple or caramel, for a unique twist.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I truly believe it will become a new family favorite. It’s perfect for weekend brunches, special occasions, or even just a simple weekday treat. The joy of sharing this delicious Cinnamon Roll French Toast with loved ones is what makes it so special.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your griddle, and get ready to experience the ultimate breakfast indulgence. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your creations! I’d love to see your photos and hear about your experiences in the comments below. Let me know what toppings you used, what variations you tried, and how much everyone loved it. Happy cooking!


Cinnamon Roll French Toast: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe

Decadent French toast featuring challah bread swirled with cinnamon filling, dipped in rich custard, and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time45
Category: Breakfast
Yield: 6-8 servings
Save This Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf (1 pound) challah bread, brioche, or Texas toast, cut into 1-inch thick slices
  • 8 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup milk, or more to reach desired consistency
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cinnamon Swirl Filling: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cream together with a fork or electric mixer until smooth.
  2. Prepare French Toast Batter: In a large, shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
  3. Assemble French Toast: Spread a generous layer of cinnamon swirl filling evenly over one side of each bread slice.
  4. Cook French Toast: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Dip each cinnamon-swirled bread slice into the French toast batter, coating both sides. Let excess batter drip off.
  5. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and place on a wire rack or paper towels to drain. Repeat with remaining bread, adding butter as needed.
  6. Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze: While French toast is cooking, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating well after each addition. Stir in milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
  7. Serve: Drizzle cream cheese glaze generously over warm French toast. Serve immediately. Optional: Garnish with cinnamon, chopped nuts, or fresh berries.

Notes

  • Use good quality bread like challah, brioche, or Texas toast.
  • Don’t oversoak the bread.
  • Cook over medium heat to prevent burning.
  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet.
  • Keep cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven (200°F) if making a large batch.
  • Adjust sweetness to your liking.
  • Add citrus zest for a bright flavor.
  • Experiment with different spices.
  • Prepare components ahead of time.

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