Cinnamon Roll French Toast is the ultimate indulgent breakfast, combining the gooey, spiced sweetness of cinnamon rolls with the crispy, custard-soaked delight of French toast. This dish brings together the best of both worlds, offering a rich, buttery, and cinnamon-infused treat that is perfect for special occasions, brunch gatherings, or simply satisfying a craving for something decadent. Whether served with classic maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or an extra drizzle of cream cheese glaze, this dish is sure to impress.
The history of Cinnamon Roll French Toast is rooted in two beloved culinary traditions: French toast and cinnamon rolls. French toast, known as “pain perdu” in France, dates back to ancient times when cooks sought ways to repurpose stale bread by soaking it in a mixture of eggs and milk before frying it to perfection. Cinnamon rolls, on the other hand, have a rich European history, particularly in Sweden, where they are known as “kanelbullar,” and in Germany, where variations like “Zimtschnecken” are enjoyed. The fusion of these two classics likely emerged from the desire to elevate breakfast pastries, creating a dish that is both crispy on the outside and soft, warm, and flavorful on the inside. Over time, Cinnamon Roll French Toast has become a staple in breakfast and brunch menus, celebrated for its irresistible flavor and texture.
Ingredients Breakdown: The beauty of Cinnamon Roll French Toast lies in its simple yet luxurious ingredients. The key component is cinnamon rolls, which can be homemade or store-bought. These rolls are already infused with warm spices, brown sugar, and buttery goodness, making them the perfect base. The custard mixture is made with eggs, milk or cream, vanilla extract, and a touch of cinnamon to enhance the flavor. Some recipes also include nutmeg or a splash of maple syrup for extra depth. Butter is essential for frying, giving the toast a golden, crispy exterior. Toppings can include classic maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a drizzle of cream cheese icing to fully embrace the cinnamon roll experience.
Step-by-Step Recipe: To make Cinnamon Roll French Toast, start by preparing the cinnamon rolls. If using pre-made rolls, slice them into thick rounds. If using homemade dough, partially bake the rolls before slicing to maintain their structure. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter. Dip each cinnamon roll slice into the custard mixture, ensuring it is fully coated but not overly soaked. Place the slices onto the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Transfer to a plate and keep warm while preparing the remaining slices. Serve immediately with your choice of toppings, such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or cream cheese glaze.
Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast: To achieve the best texture, use slightly stale cinnamon rolls, as they absorb the custard mixture without becoming too soggy. If using fresh rolls, let them sit out uncovered for a few hours before preparation. Adjust the amount of cinnamon and vanilla in the custard mixture based on personal preference, and consider adding a splash of orange zest for a citrusy contrast. Cook over medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the custard to cook through fully. Using a non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron pan ensures even browning. For an extra indulgent experience, brush the finished toast with melted butter before serving.
Variations and Customizations: There are endless ways to customize Cinnamon Roll French Toast. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat or reduced-sugar cinnamon rolls and opt for almond milk instead of heavy cream. Stuffed French toast variations involve sandwiching cream cheese or fruit preserves between two slices before dipping and frying. For a festive version, add pumpkin spice during fall or crushed peppermint and white chocolate during the holiday season. If you love nuts, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch. A caramel drizzle or a touch of espresso powder in the custard mix can further elevate the dish.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value: While Cinnamon Roll French Toast is undeniably rich and indulgent, it can be modified to fit different dietary needs. Using whole wheat or lower-sugar cinnamon rolls reduces refined carbohydrates and sugar content. Substituting almond milk or oat milk for heavy cream can lower the calorie count while maintaining creaminess. Incorporating egg whites instead of whole eggs can reduce cholesterol while still providing protein. Adding fresh fruit like berries or bananas boosts fiber and vitamins. Portion control is key, as this dish is naturally high in sugar and fats, but enjoying it occasionally as a treat is part of a balanced diet.
FAQ: Can I use store-bought cinnamon rolls? Yes, store-bought rolls work well and save time. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold up to the custard mixture. Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the custard mixture and pre-slice the rolls the night before, but for best results, cook fresh. Can I bake instead of frying? Yes, bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes for a less greasy version. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat in an oven at 300°F for a few minutes to maintain crispiness or use a toaster oven.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1 can of refrigerated cinnamon rolls
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- ¼ cup 60 ml milk at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup 120 ml maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat for at least 20–30 minutes before baking the cinnamon roll casserole. Grease an 8 x 8-inch (20 cm) baking dish with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of melted unsalted butter.
- Cut the refrigerated cinnamon rolls into 6–8 evenly sized pieces each. Arrange the cinnamon roll pieces in a single layer at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Set aside the included icing packet to use as a topping after baking.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten. Add the milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, whisking until fully combined. Finally, mix in the maple syrup until the custard is smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the prepared cinnamon custard evenly over the cinnamon roll pieces in the baking dish. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the edges of the cinnamon rolls pull slightly away from the sides of the dish. The custard should be fully set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cinnamon roll French toast casserole cool for 10–15 minutes before drizzling the reserved icing over the top. Serve warm and enjoy!