Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful way to kick off your weekend, I have just the recipe for you! These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for your taste buds. Imagine bite-sized pieces of soft challah bread soaked in a rich custard, pan-fried to golden perfection, and coated in cinnamon sugar. Drizzle on some creamy glaze, and you have yourself a brunch dish that’s sure to impress!

This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or even cozy weekends at home. It’s easy to whip up and will make your kitchen smell heavenly. Trust me; once you try these sweet little bites, they’ll become a beloved favorite in your household!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have delicious bites ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love these sweet treats, making them ideal for picky eaters.
• Make-ahead options: You can soak the bread overnight and cook it fresh in the morning!
• Perfect for sharing: These bite-sized delights are great for brunch gatherings or casual get-togethers.
• Decadent flavor: The combination of cinnamon and cream cheese glaze creates an irresistible taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious dish!

For the French Toast Bites:

• 1 loaf (16 ounces) challah bread, brioche, or Texas toast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2-4 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some tasty variations to keep things interesting:

• Try different breads: Use sourdough or even gluten-free bread for a unique twist.
• Add fruit: Toss in some diced apples or berries into the custard mixture for extra flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger for a different spice profile.
• Go nuts: Sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before serving for added crunch.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and cinnamon until well combined. This simple mixture adds that classic cinnamon roll flavor to each bite. Set it aside as you’ll use it right after cooking those golden delights.

Step 2: Prepare French Toast Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth. It’s essential that everything is blended well – no streaks of egg yolk should remain! This custard is what makes our bread so rich and flavorful.

Step 3: Soak Bread Cubes

Place the bread cubes into a large shallow dish and pour the custard over them. Gently press down on the cubes to help them soak up all that creamy goodness. Let them sit for at least 20 minutes; this step is crucial as it ensures every piece absorbs enough custard for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Cook French Toast Bites

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully remove soaked bread cubes from the custard and let any excess drip back into the bowl. Don’t overcrowd your skillet – cook in batches if necessary! Each cube should sizzle gently; cook them until they turn golden brown.

Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

As soon as those bites come out of the skillet, toss them immediately in your prepared cinnamon sugar mixture. This coating adds that signature sweetness and crunch that makes these bites irresistible!

Step 6: Repeat

Continue cooking and coating with the remaining bread cubes and butter until everything is golden and delicious.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze

In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed—this helps avoid any powdery clouds! Add vanilla extract and just enough milk until you achieve your desired glaze consistency.

Step 8: Assemble and Serve

Arrange those beautiful cinnamon-sugar-coated bites on a platter. Drizzle generously with your luscious cream cheese glaze or serve it on the side for dipping fun! Enjoy these warm; they truly shine when fresh out of the skillet.

Now you’re all set to impress your family or friends with these scrumptious Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe

Making these delightful bites is a breeze with just a few tips to help you along the way. Follow these suggestions to ensure your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right bread: Opt for challah, brioche, or Texas toast for that fluffy texture that soaks up the custard beautifully. The richer the bread, the more flavor and moisture it will retain!

• Don’t rush the soaking process: Allowing the bread cubes to soak in the custard for at least 20 minutes ensures they absorb all that creamy goodness. This step is crucial for achieving that soft, custardy center everyone loves.

• Cook in batches: Overcrowding your skillet can lead to uneven cooking. Cooking in smaller batches allows each piece to get golden brown and crispy on all sides, giving you that perfect crunch!

• Adjust cinnamon sugar to taste: Feel free to tweak the cinnamon sugar mixture based on your preference. If you love cinnamon, add a bit more; if you like it sweeter, increase the sugar! This flexibility makes the recipe your own.

• Experiment with glaze consistency: The cream cheese glaze can be adjusted for thickness based on your preference. Add milk gradually until you achieve your desired drizzling or dipping consistency—trust me, it’ll make all the difference!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe

Presentation is key when serving brunch! These bites not only taste heavenly but also look absolutely adorable on a platter. Here are some fun ideas for making your dish stand out.

Garnishes

• Fresh fruit: Sliced strawberries or blueberries add a pop of color and freshness, balancing out the richness of the bites.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top gives an indulgent touch and complements the flavors wonderfully!
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts over the top for added crunch and a nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits tossed together creates a refreshing side that pairs well with sweet dishes.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast that’ll please everyone at the table.
• Hash browns: Crispy hash browns provide a savory balance to your brunch spread, making it hearty and satisfying.
• Smoothies: Whipping up a quick smoothie with leafy greens and fruits offers a nutritious boost alongside those sweet bites.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites will not only be delicious but also visually stunning—a true showstopper at any brunch gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover French toast bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked bites to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour.
• Once frozen, transfer the bites to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, place the bites on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• For refrigerated leftovers, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delicious recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the custard and soak the bread cubes ahead of time. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of heavy cream in Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?

You can substitute heavy cream with additional milk or use a non-dairy alternative like almond milk or coconut cream for a lighter version.

How do I store leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment!

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Yes! While challah is traditional, you can use brioche, Texas toast, or even gluten-free bread if desired.

How do I make the cream cheese glaze less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, simply add more milk or yogurt until you reach your desired consistency without compromising too much on taste.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites as I was when creating this recipe! They bring together all the best flavors of brunch into one delightful bite-sized treat. Whether it’s a weekend family gathering or just a cozy breakfast at home, they’re sure to impress. Enjoy making these delicious bites and share them with loved ones – after all, good food is best enjoyed together! Happy cooking!