Indulgent and sweet, Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are the perfect breakfast treat or delightful dessert that combines two beloved favorites: cinnamon rolls and French toast. These roll-ups are delicious and easy to make, making them a fantastic option for brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or any time you crave a sweet start to your morning.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Imagine the warmth of cinnamon rolls packed into delightful, bite-sized roll-ups, coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and drizzled with creamy icing. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for many variations based on your favorite fillings or toppings. Plus, it requires simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Furthermore, the combination of the soft bread with the rich cinnamon butter and the smooth cream cheese icing makes every bite a heavenly experience.
Introduction
There’s something extraordinary about transforming classic dishes into new and exciting forms. The Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups do just that by taking the beloved flavors of cinnamon rolls and giving them a French toast twist. With a gooey center, crispy exterior, and a luscious icing drizzle, these roll-ups are not only fun to make but also a treat to share with family and friends. Whether you’re serving them on a lazy weekend morning or showcasing them at a special brunch, these roll-ups are sure to impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- Cinnamon Butter Mixture:
- 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- Roll-Ups:
- 8 slices thick, soft bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1-1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- Cream Cheese Icing:
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Butter and Bread
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated. Trim the crusts from the bread slices and flatten them gently with a rolling pin to make them pliable. Spread a generous layer of the cinnamon butter mixture onto each flattened bread slice and then roll them up tightly from one end to the other.
Step 2: Create Your French Toast
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the two eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform. Carefully dip each cinnamon roll-up into the egg mixture, ensuring that each roll is thoroughly coated. In a skillet or frying pan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, carefully place the roll-ups into the skillet. Cook the roll-ups, turning occasionally to achieve a beautifully golden brown color on all sides.
Step 3: Make the Coating and Icing
In a separate small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to create a delightful cinnamon-sugar coating. Once the roll-ups are cooked to perfection, roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until they are fully coated. To prepare the creamy icing, beat the softened cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar in a bowl until it becomes smooth and creamy. Optionally, you can add a splash of milk for a thinner consistency if desired.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups on a beautiful serving platter. For an extra touch, sprinkle with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup. Serve warm and savor the delightful combination of sweet cinnamon, rich butter, and fluffy French toast, enhanced by the creamy icing.
Cooking Note:
Make sure to keep the heat on medium; it is too high and the roll-ups may burn before cooking through. Feel free to add toppings or adjust the icing to fit your personal preferences, such as adding chopped pecans or a splash of vanilla to the icing.
Suggestions for Presentation:
- Drizzle with maple syrup or a simple glaze for added sweetness.
- Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a colorful touch.
- Serve with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for a balanced breakfast.
Tips:
- Use day-old bread for a better texture; it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as Nutella or fruit preserves, for variety.
- If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half of the butter in the filling with Greek yogurt.
Time Estimates:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups marries the classic comfort of cinnamon rolls with the beloved elegance of French toast into a unique and delightful breakfast or dessert. With their sweet flavors and satisfying textures, these roll-ups are bound to become a favorite in your household. Easy to prepare yet undoubtedly impressive, they are perfect for any occasion.
Questions & Answers
- Can I use regular bread instead of thick, soft bread?
- While thick, soft bread works best for this recipe to create a light texture, you can substitute it with regular white or whole wheat bread. Just ensure that the bread is fresh and sturdy enough to hold the filling while being rolled.
- Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
- Yes! You can prepare the roll-ups and store them uncooked in the refrigerator for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, simply dip them in the egg mixture and proceed as directed.
- What can I serve with Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups?
- These roll-ups pair wonderfully with fresh fruit, crispy bacon, or sausage. Additionally, a side of maple syrup or whipped cream makes for delightful toppings.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds or in a toaster oven to regain some crispiness.
- Can I freeze these roll-ups?
- Yes, you can freeze them either before cooking or after. If freezing before cooking, prepare them, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and cook directly from the freezer. If frozen after cooking, reheat them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
