Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: A Bite-Sized Breakfast Delight

Introduction & Inspiration

As someone who loves a sweet and satisfying breakfast, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that are both delicious and easy to prepare. These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a winner on both fronts! They’re a fun and festive twist on classic French toast, perfect for those mornings when you’re craving something special. The inspiration for this recipe came from my love of cinnamon rolls and my desire to create a breakfast dish that was both convenient and bursting with flavor.

Homemade Focus

While you can certainly use store-bought cinnamon rolls, there’s something special about making these French toast bites from scratch. This recipe is incredibly simple, and the result is a batch of warm, cinnamon-y bites that are far superior to anything you can buy pre-made. Plus, making them yourself allows you to control the quality of ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking.

Flavor Goal

The goal here is to create French toast bites that are reminiscent of cinnamon rolls, with a perfect balance of sweet, cinnamon-y, and custardy flavors. The challah or brioche bread provides a rich and eggy base, while the cinnamon and sugar in the custard add warmth and sweetness. The vanilla glaze adds a final touch of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s explore the key players in these delicious French toast bites:

• Day-Old Bread: Day-old challah or brioche bread is ideal for this recipe because it’s slightly stale, which helps it to soak up the custard without becoming soggy.
• Eggs: Eggs bind the custard together and add richness and structure to the French toast bites.
• Whole Milk: Whole milk adds richness and creaminess to the custard. You can substitute with your preferred milk or a milk alternative.  
• Ground Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon provides the warm, comforting spice that’s essential to the cinnamon roll flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the custard.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the custard with its warm and sweet notes.
• Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the pan-fried French toast bites. You can substitute with coconut oil for a healthier option.
• Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar is used to make the glaze and adds a final touch of sweetness.

Equipment

You’ll need just a few essential tools to whip up these cinnamon roll French toast bites:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Large skillet
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 4 slices of day-old bread (challah or brioche preferred)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or alternative)
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil)
• For the glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Cut the bread into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes.
2. Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla until well combined.
3. Soak the Bread: Dip each piece of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds.
4. Heat the Pan: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Fry the Bites: Add the soaked bread cubes to the skillet in a single layer and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Make the Glaze: While the bites are cooking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
7. Serve: Drizzle the glaze over the warm cinnamon roll French toast bites and serve immediately.

Troubleshooting

• French toast bites too soggy: Avoid soaking the bread in the custard for too long. You want it to be coated but not overly saturated.
• French toast bites not cooked through: Make sure the skillet is hot enough before adding the bread. You can also cover the skillet with a lid to help the bites cook through faster.
• Glaze too thick: If the glaze is too thick, add a few more drops of milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Tips and Variations

• For a richer flavor, you can use heavy cream instead of milk in the custard.
• Feel free to add other spices to the custard, such as nutmeg or cardamom.
• You can top the French toast bites with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• If you don’t have challah or brioche bread, you can use any type of bread that you like, such as white bread, wheat bread, or even sourdough bread.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are a delightful breakfast or brunch option that can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or a dollop of whipped cream. They also make a great snack or dessert. Pair them with a cup of coffee, tea, or juice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving, approximate)

• Calories: ~200
• Fat: ~10g
• Cholesterol: ~100mg
• Sodium: ~200mg
• Carbohydrates: ~25g
• Protein: ~5g

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Recipe Summary and Q&A

Recipe Name: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Yields: 2-4 servings

Q: Can I make these French toast bites ahead of time?

A: While these bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can cook them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven or toaster before serving.

Q: Can I freeze these French toast bites?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked French toast bites. Let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for longer storage. Reheat them in the oven or toaster before serving.  

Q: Can I use a different type of bread?

A: Yes, you can use any type of bread that you like, but challah or brioche bread is preferred for its rich and eggy flavor.