Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites – The Ultimate Breakfast Treat.

If cinnamon rolls and French toast had a baby, this would be it. These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are soft, golden, and bursting with warm cinnamon sugar flavor, all coated in a sweet glaze that melts right into every little bite. They’re the kind of breakfast that turns an ordinary morning into something memorable — without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe was born on a lazy Sunday when I had a tube of refrigerated cinnamon rolls in the fridge and a craving for something cozy. Instead of baking the rolls the usual way, I chopped them up, dipped them in an egg custard, and cooked them like French toast. What came out of the skillet was everything I hoped for: soft on the inside, crisp on the edges, and perfectly spiced.

Whether you’re making brunch for a crowd or a fun breakfast for kids, these bite-sized treats are easy, fast, and full of classic cinnamon roll comfort — no proofing dough or elaborate prep required.

Ingredients

For the French Toast Bites

1 can (12–13 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (8–10 count)
3 large eggs
⅓ cup milk (whole or 2%)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp butter (for cooking)

For the Glaze (Optional but Recommended)

Glaze packet from the cinnamon rolls or
½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp milk
½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the Cinnamon Rolls

Open the can of cinnamon rolls and set the glaze packet aside if it’s included.

Cut each cinnamon roll into 4 pieces, creating bite-sized chunks. This helps them cook evenly and allows more surface area to soak up the custard mixture.

Step 2: Make the Egg Custard

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth. The cinnamon adds an extra layer of warmth that enhances the flavor of the rolls.

Step 3: Dip the Cinnamon Roll Pieces

Add the cut cinnamon roll pieces to the egg mixture and gently toss to coat. Let them sit for 1–2 minutes so they can absorb some of the custard without getting soggy.

Step 4: Cook on the Stovetop

Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter.

Once hot, add the soaked cinnamon roll pieces in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and cooked through.

They should be crisp on the outside and fluffy inside — similar to classic French toast.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

If using the packet, warm it slightly to make it easier to drizzle.

To make your own, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Adjust consistency with more milk (for a thinner glaze) or powdered sugar (for thicker).

Step 6: Drizzle & Serve

Transfer the cooked bites to a serving dish and drizzle generously with the glaze while they’re still warm. The glaze will melt slightly, coating each piece beautifully.

Serve immediately, while the edges are crisp and the centers are soft and cinnamon-swirled.

Flavor & Texture Notes

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are everything you love about both breakfast classics in one dish.

Texture: Slightly crisp exterior from the skillet, with a fluffy, tender center that soaks up the cinnamon-vanilla custard.
Flavor: Warm cinnamon sugar swirls meet creamy egg custard, with sweet vanilla glaze tying it all together. It’s like eating the gooey center of a cinnamon roll in every bite.
Aroma: As they cook, the kitchen fills with that unmistakable cinnamon roll bakery smell — sweet, spiced, and nostalgic.

The result is a bite-sized breakfast treat that’s fun to eat and hard to stop at just a few pieces.

Tips & Variations

Bake Instead of Fry: For a hands-off version, arrange the custard-soaked bites in a greased 8×8 baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–18 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
Use Homemade Cinnamon Rolls: If you have extra homemade dough, this method works beautifully. Just chop them up before baking and treat them the same way.
Add Toppings: Top with chopped pecans, walnuts, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra texture and flair.
Spiced Custard: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for more depth.
Make It Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy milk and vegan butter to make this recipe dairy-free. Most canned cinnamon rolls are accidentally vegan — just double-check the label.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness.
Freezer: Freeze cooked bites on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Make-Ahead: You can cut and soak the cinnamon roll pieces the night before and refrigerate them overnight. Cook fresh in the morning for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Brunch Plate: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit for a balanced brunch.
Dipping Style: Serve the glaze in a small bowl and let everyone dip the bites like mini churros.
Holiday Breakfast: These are perfect for Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or any festive occasion where you want a special breakfast without the stress.
Dessert Twist: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a fun dessert version.

FAQ

Can I use stale cinnamon rolls or day-old baked rolls?

Yes! If you have baked cinnamon rolls that are a little stale, cube them up and treat them like bread for French toast. You may need to soak them slightly longer.

How do I know when the bites are fully cooked?

The outside should be golden and slightly crisp, and the inside should feel springy, not doughy. Cut one open to check if unsure — the interior should look like soft French toast, not raw dough.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Absolutely. Place the soaked pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 350°F for about 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden.

Do I need to chill the dough before dipping?

No chilling required! You can go straight from cutting to dipping to cooking.

What’s the best way to keep them warm for serving a crowd?

Place cooked bites on a baking sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you finish batches. This keeps them warm and crisp without drying them out.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are proof that you don’t need a complicated recipe to make something special. With just a can of cinnamon rolls, a simple custard, and a few minutes at the stove, you get a breakfast that’s cozy, fun, and guaranteed to disappear fast.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this is the kind of recipe that makes mornings feel a little brighter.

So grab that can of cinnamon rolls and a skillet — brunch just got a serious upgrade.