Cinnamon French Toast Roll-Ups

These cinnamon French toast roll-ups are the answer when you want a showstopper breakfast that feels special yet is easy to pull together. With pantry basics like bread, eggs, and cinnamon, you get golden crisp outsides and gooey cinnamon-spiced centers. Perfect for cozy weekends or entertaining, they come together quickly for instant comfort.

I first made these on a lazy Sunday morning when I had leftover bread and no plan. Now my niece asks for them every time she visits.

Ingredients

• Soft sandwich bread: Soft bread rolls better and gives that classic French toast texture
• Brown sugar: Choose fresh moist brown sugar to ensure the filling melts just right
• Ground cinnamon: Pick a fragrant fresh variety for a warm bold flavor
• Butter: Use real butter for richness and smooth spreading
• Eggs: Fresh eggs give the custard its creamy base
• Whole milk: Adds richness to the French toast coating and helps it cling to the roll
• Vanilla extract: A splash gives warmth and makes the rolls smell incredible

Instructions

Prep The Bread:

Remove the crusts and gently flatten each slice using a rolling pin The goal is a thin even surface that rolls easily without cracking

Make The Filling:

Mix melted butter brown sugar and cinnamon in a bowl until smooth Spread evenly over each bread slice leaving a bit of space at the edges to prevent leakage

Roll Them Up:

Roll each slice tightly and press gently to seal This step is key to keeping the filling inside

Prepare The Batter:

Whisk eggs milk cinnamon and vanilla in a shallow bowl until fully combined This will coat the roll-ups and give them a golden crust

Dip And Fry:

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt some butter Dip each roll in the batter then place seam side down in the pan Rotate gently to cook all sides until evenly golden

Cinnamon is my favorite spice and reminds me of childhood breakfasts at my grandmother’s house Every time I make these rolls the smell fills the kitchen with nostalgia and warmth

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the oven for a crisp finish Avoid microwaving to keep the texture nice

Ingredient Substitutions

No brown sugar Try coconut sugar or maple sugar for a similar taste No whole milk Any full-fat milk works but avoid skim for best results Bread too dry A sprinkle of water and a few seconds in the microwave softens it

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh berries Pair with warm maple syrup or a light drizzle of honey Add a side of scrambled eggs or fruit for a complete breakfast

Cultural Context

This recipe blends the indulgent layers of cinnamon rolls with the classic custardy French toast While cinnamon rolls trace their roots back to Northern Europe French toast or pain perdu has been loved for centuries as a way to revive stale bread

Make these when you want breakfast to feel special and cozy. Make extra because they disappear fast!

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat bread?

Yes, though white bread creates a softer texture. Whole wheat may crack during rolling, but still works well.

→ How do I keep the filling from leaking?

Flatten bread evenly, avoid overfilling, seal edges, and start frying seam-side down to keep filling inside.

→ Can these be prepared ahead?

Assemble and refrigerate roll-ups overnight, or freeze for up to a month for an easy make-ahead breakfast option.

→ What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a nonstick skillet or warm in the oven at 300°F until heated through for a crisp result.

→ Are there alternative fillings?

Try cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit jams as delicious swaps to keep things fun and tasty every time.