If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug and tastes like a sweet morning celebration, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the gooey, cinnamon-spiced goodness of a cinnamon roll with the crispy, custardy satisfaction of classic French toast, this recipe brings together the best of both worlds. Each bite melts in your mouth with rich vanilla and warming spices, crowned by a luscious glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Perfect for weekend brunches or any day you want to treat yourself, this dish is comfort food elevated to a whole new level.

Two pieces of cinnamon swirl toast are stacked on a white plate. The bottom layer is a thick, golden-brown slice of toast with a slightly crispy outer edge and soft inside. On top of it rests a cinnamon roll slice, golden with a spiral shape, coated with melted icing that glistens under the light. Both layers are dusted with powdered sugar and syrup drips down the sides, pooling slightly on the plate. The background is a white marbled texture with a glass container partially visible on the right. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe. These simple essentials work together to create a dish with the ideal balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal that will brighten your morning.

8 slices of cinnamon swirl bread: This bread is the heart of the dish, delivering that unmistakable cinnamon swirl flavor and a soft, thick texture perfect for soaking up custard.
3 large eggs: Eggs provide a rich, velvety custard base that coats the bread, ensuring a moist and tender interior.
1 cup milk: Milk thins out the custard just enough to allow easy dipping and smooth cooking, resulting in a dreamy, luscious finish.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla adds depth and enhances the warm sweetness of the cinnamon and nutmeg.
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Cinnamon amplifies the spicy notes already present in the bread, pulling the flavors together beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg introduces a subtle complexity that keeps each bite exciting and comforting.
Butter or oil for cooking: Use butter for a rich flavor and golden crust, or oil if you prefer a lighter touch—it’s essential for that crisp exterior.
1 cup powdered sugar: This forms the base of the creamy glaze that drizzles over the top, offering sweetness and smooth texture.
2 tablespoons milk: Milk adjusts the glaze’s consistency so it’s perfectly pourable but not runny.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A finishing touch that brings fragrance and flavor to the glaze, complementing the sweetness wonderfully.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Custard

Start off by whisking together eggs, milk, vanilla, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl until everything is smooth and well combined. This custard is your flavor powerhouse, gently infusing each slice of bread with warm spices and creamy richness that forms the soul of this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Place a large skillet or griddle on medium heat and add enough butter or oil to cover the surface. Once the butter is melted and bubbling gently, the pan is ready for your custard-soaked bread. This step is crucial for creating the golden, crispy crust that contrasts delightfully with the soft interior.

Step 3: Dip the Bread

One by one, dip each cinnamon swirl bread slice into the custard mixture. Allow it to absorb enough moisture without becoming soggy, then let any excess drip away before placing it in the skillet. This technique ensures your French toast is rich, but holds its shape beautifully throughout cooking.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

Arrange the soaked bread slices on the hot skillet, making sure not to crowd them. Cook about 2 to 3 minutes per side until the toast turns a glorious golden brown and develops a crisp edge. Monitor the heat carefully, adjusting as needed to prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Glaze

While your French toast is sizzling, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla together until smooth and pourable. This glaze is the crowning glory of the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe, dripping over warm toast to add a luscious, sweet finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, plate your French toast slices and pour the creamy glaze lavishly over the top. Serve immediately to enjoy that perfect balance of crispy exterior, tender custardy bread, warm spices, and a sweet glaze that makes every bite unforgettable.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

The image shows a close-up view of four cinnamon rolls in a black pan. Each roll has a golden-brown crust with darker cinnamon swirls forming a spiral pattern. The rolls look soft and slightly shiny because they are coated with syrup or glaze. They are dusted lightly with white powdered sugar, adding a delicate texture contrast. The rolls are thick and layered, with the spiral layers clearly visible from the top to the edges, giving a fluffy and warm look. The pan sits on a white marbled surface, which adds a clean and simple background contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Top your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a fresh contrast in texture and flavor. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup can elevate the presentation and add even more dimension.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, or scrambled eggs to balance the sweetness with savory flavors. A fresh fruit salad or a side of yogurt also pairs wonderfully to refresh the palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe in a stack separated by layers of fruit or mascarpone cheese for an impressive brunch centerpiece. Alternatively, cut the toast into bite-sized cubes and serve as a French toast casserole or fondue style, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe keeps best when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To preserve its texture and flavor, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked French toast by placing slices on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents clumping and allows you to enjoy the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe anytime without compromising quality.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen slices in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat to restore crispness while gently warming the custard inside. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the toast soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use regular bread instead of cinnamon swirl bread?

Absolutely! While cinnamon swirl bread adds the classic cinnamon roll flavor, you can substitute with thick breads like brioche or challah and simply sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on the bread before dipping to mimic the taste.

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap cow’s milk for almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a dairy-free butter or oil for cooking. The texture and flavor will remain deliciously satisfying.

How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

If your glaze is too thick, add a little more milk a teaspoon at a time until it reaches pourable consistency. If it’s too thin, increase powdered sugar gradually to thicken it without losing that smooth texture.

Can I prepare the batter the night before?

It’s best to make the custard fresh, but you can combine the dry ingredients and whisk eggs and milk the night before separately. Combine just before dipping the bread for the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to prevent soggy French toast?

Don’t soak the bread too long; it should be moist but not dripping with custard. Also, cook over medium heat to develop a golden crust while allowing the center to cook through without becoming mushy.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe is truly a breakfast dream come true, blending the nostalgic charm of cinnamon rolls with the classic comfort of French toast. It’s simple to prepare, joyful to eat, and guaranteed to brighten your mornings or special occasions. So grab your cinnamon swirl bread, whip up that luscious custard, and dive into a plateful of happiness that feels like a warm hug on a fork. You won’t regret making this delightful recipe part of your breakfast rotation!