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This sweet breakfast mashup has become my go-to recipe whenever I want to surprise someone with something warm and cozy. Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups take everyday sandwich bread and turn it into something you’d expect from a fancy brunch café. They’re buttery, filled with cinnamon sugar, and pan-fried until golden on all sides. The best part? They come together in minutes and feel like a little morning celebration.
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
Step-by-Step 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.
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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.
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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.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white?
Yes, but white bread rolls more easily and gives a softer texture. Whole wheat may crack during rolling.
- → How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Flatten the bread well, avoid overfilling, and seal edges firmly. Place seam-side down in the pan first.
- → Can I prepare these roll-ups ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble and refrigerate them overnight or freeze them for up to a month.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or warm them in the oven at 300°F until heated through.
- → Are there alternative fillings I can use?
Yes! Try cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves for fun variations.