Cinnamon Roll French Toast: A Decadent Twist on Breakfast Classics

I’ve created a luscious Cinnamon Roll French Toast that combines the indulgence of gooey cinnamon rolls with the comfort of classic French toast—resulting in a rich, sweet, and utterly irresistible breakfast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore this recipe because it feels like treating myself to dessert for breakfast. The cinnamon roll flavor is layered into every bite, the toast is soft and custardy, and the drizzle of icing makes it feel extra special. It’s impressively decadent yet surprisingly easy.

ingredients

(Had to include it here – here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• thick slices of cinnamon swirl bread or pre-wrapped cinnamon rolls (unglazed), halved

• large eggs

• milk or half-and-half

• vanilla extract

• ground cinnamon (additional, if desired)

• butter (for frying)

• For the icing glaze:

• powdered sugar

• cream cheese (optional, for extra richness)

• milk or cream

• vanilla extract

directions

1. Prep the bread – I slice the cinnamon swirl bread or cut pre-wrapped cinnamon rolls in half to expose the swirl.

2. Make custard – I whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth and frothy.

3. Soak the slices – I dip each piece into the custard, letting it fully absorb but not become soggy.

4. Heat the skillet – I warm butter in a skillet over medium heat until it foams.

5. Cook the French toast – I fry each slice for about 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and crisp on the outside, soft inside.

6. Make the glaze – While the French toast cooks, I whisk powdered sugar with cream cheese (if using), a little milk, and vanilla until smooth and pourable.

7. Serve – I plate the toast, drizzle generously with the glaze, and serve warm—with optional toppings like fresh berries, nuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4 slices (serves 2–4)

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 10–12 minutes

• Glaze time: 5 minutes

• Total time: ~25–30 minutes

Variations

• Nutty crunch: I sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the warm toast for texture.

• Berry compote twist: I serve with a warm blueberry or strawberry compote in place of—or alongside—the glaze.

• Savory-sweet twist: I add a pinch of sea salt on the glaze for a caramel-like, balanced flavor.

• Vegan version: I swap eggs and milk for a plant-based custard (like blended silken tofu or cashew milk) and use dairy-free butter and glaze.

storage/reheating

I store leftover slices in a single layer in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I gently warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes per side or use a toaster oven for crisp edges. I reheat the glaze briefly in the microwave—10–15 seconds—and drizzle before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls?

Yes—I slice them in half and soak them like bread, though I skip the extra sugar in the custard since they’re already sweet.

What bread works best?

I prefer thick-sliced cinnamon swirl bread or brioche-style cinnamon bread—it soaks up custard well and has great texture.

Should the glaze be thick or runny?

I aim for a pourable glaze that drizzles nicely but still clings—if it’s too thick, I add a splash more milk; if too thin, I add extra powdered sugar.

Can I prep this the night before?

I can assemble the soaked bread and cover it in the fridge, then cook it fresh in the morning. The flavor and texture come out just as good.

Can I add extra cinnamon?

Absolutely—I sprinkle a generous dash on top after soaking or add it to the custard for more warm cinnamon flavor.

Conclusion

I hope this Cinnamon Roll French Toast brings a decadent, joyful twist to my mornings. It’s truly a breakfast treat—custardy, cinnamon-sweet, and finished with velvety glaze. Perfect for weekends, celebrations, or whenever I want to start the day on a delicious note.

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