Cinnamon French Toast Roll-Ups

These cinnamon French toast roll-ups are a cozy breakfast delight that transforms everyday bread into something special. Soft bread gets filled with buttery cinnamon sugar, rolled up, dipped in custardy egg, and pan-fried to golden crispness. In less than half an hour, you will have a breakfast that feels like a bakery treat but comes together easily in your own kitchen. Whether you want to spoil your kids or make brunch with friends extra joyful, these roll-ups always hit the spot.

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. For the best texture reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the oven until warmed through. Skipping the microwave helps keep the outside crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

No brown sugar on hand? Coconut sugar or maple sugar both melt into a similar luscious filling. If you are out of whole milk any full-fat milk works just avoid skim. If your bread is a bit stale a sprinkle of water and a warm kitchen towel will restore its softness for perfect rolling.

Serving Suggestions

These roll-ups are perfect with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and fresh berries on the side. Drizzle with warm maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness. Pair them with scrambled eggs or fruit for a full breakfast spread.

Cultural Context

French toast has long been a way to rescue and enjoy stale bread across cultures. Cinnamon sugar filling adds a nod to the classic Northern European cinnamon roll so this recipe fuses comforting traditions in every bite.

Seasonal Adaptations

Try orange zest in the filling for a winter twist
Use sliced strawberries in spring for fruity freshness
Swap cinnamon for chai spice in the fall for warming depth

Success Stories

These breakfast rolls have been the highlight of sleepover mornings in my family. Once I made them for a group of neighborhood kids and they disappeared in minutes. Even the pickiest eaters love them dusted with a little sugar.

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can assemble roll-ups ahead and freeze in a single layer until solid. Once frozen transfer to a bag and store for up to a month. On busy mornings pull what you need from the freezer and fry straight from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

There is nothing better than warm cinnamon French toast roll-ups on the weekend. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a pan of these soon!

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat bread?

Yes, but white bread yields a softer texture and rolls more easily; whole wheat may crack when flattened.

→ How do I stop the filling from leaking?

Flatten the bread thoroughly, avoid overfilling, and seal edges tightly. Start frying seam-side down.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble and refrigerate them overnight or freeze for up to a month before frying.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in a 300°F oven to restore crispness; avoid microwaving for best texture.

→ What are some alternative fillings?

Consider cream cheese, Nutella, fruit preserves, or even jam for delicious variations.