These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are a delicious twist on traditional French toast. Coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar mixture, these roll-ups taste just like cinnamon rolls but are easier to make!

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

• 8 slices of white bread (crusts removed)
• 4 oz (½ cup) cream cheese, softened
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for egg mixture)
• 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Flatten the Bread: Use a rolling pin to flatten each bread slice.
3. Assemble the Roll-Ups: Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture over each slice, then roll them up tightly.
4. Make the Egg Mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and ½ tsp cinnamon.
5. Dip and Cook: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with 1 tbsp butter. Dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, and place it in the skillet.
6. Cook Until Golden: Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
7. Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a separate dish, mix granulated sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon. Brush each cooked roll-up with melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
8. Serve Warm: Enjoy your cinnamon roll French toast roll-ups with syrup, fruit, or a drizzle of icing!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 Roll-Up):

• Calories: 150-180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 9g

The Appeal of Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups

This recipe combines convenience with indulgence. Traditional cinnamon rolls require hours of preparation, including dough proofing and baking, making them a time-consuming treat. However, these French toast roll-ups provide a quicker alternative without compromising on taste. The soft bread absorbs the egg mixture beautifully, creating a golden, crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and creamy interior. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds an extra layer of sweetness, making each bite reminiscent of a warm cinnamon roll. Another reason these roll-ups are popular is their versatility. They can be customized in various ways, such as adding fruit fillings, using different spreads, or even incorporating chocolate or nuts. They pair wonderfully with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a cream cheese glaze for an extra touch of decadence.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to the success of this recipe lies in its simple yet effective combination of ingredients and techniques. The cream cheese filling provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar, preventing the roll-ups from becoming overwhelmingly sweet. Flattening the bread before rolling helps create a more compact structure, ensuring that each bite delivers a satisfying balance of textures. The egg mixture adds richness and moisture, transforming the bread into a soft and custardy delight. Cooking these roll-ups in butter enhances their flavor and ensures a crispy golden-brown finish. The final cinnamon-sugar coating, applied while the roll-ups are still warm, creates the signature taste and aroma that makes cinnamon rolls so irresistible. This layering of flavors and textures results in a dish that is both visually appealing and deliciously satisfying.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are best enjoyed fresh off the pan when they are warm and crispy. They can be served as is or paired with a variety of toppings and sides. A drizzle of maple syrup enhances their sweetness, while a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforms them into a dessert-like treat. For those who love extra cinnamon flavor, a cream cheese glaze made with powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk can be drizzled over the top. For a fruity twist, sliced strawberries, bananas, or apples can be added to the filling before rolling up the bread. This not only adds natural sweetness but also provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Another variation involves incorporating chocolate chips or Nutella for a chocolatey indulgence. For a healthier alternative, whole wheat bread can be used instead of white bread, and Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese in the filling. Reducing the sugar or using a sugar substitute can also make this recipe more suitable for those watching their sugar intake.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These roll-ups are not only great for breakfast but also make an excellent addition to brunch gatherings, weekend treats, or even as a quick dessert option. They are easy to prepare in batches, making them ideal for serving a crowd. Since they are handheld, they are also convenient for on-the-go breakfasts or packed lunches. Their visual appeal makes them a great dish for special occasions, including birthdays, holidays, or celebrations. The golden-brown exterior dusted with cinnamon sugar gives them a warm and inviting look that is hard to resist.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, these roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, simply place them in a toaster oven or a pan over low heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make them soggy instead of crisp. For longer storage, these roll-ups can be frozen. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag and store for up to one month. When ready to eat, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until they are hot and crispy again.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of cinnamon rolls without the hassle of baking from scratch. They offer a crispy, golden-brown exterior, a creamy and flavorful filling, and a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Easy to prepare, customizable, and incredibly satisfying, they are a must-try for anyone who loves comforting breakfast treats. Whether enjoyed as a morning indulgence, a snack, or even a dessert, these roll-ups bring the warmth and joy of homemade cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time.