When you think of comfort food, cinnamon rolls and French toast often come to mind. So, why not combine them into a single indulgent dish? Enter the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Up – a mouthwatering breakfast that delivers all the rich flavors you love, combined with a crispy French toast finish. In this article, we’ll break down the recipe step-by-step, offer expert tips, and cover frequently asked questions. Let’s make mornings even sweeter!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Roll-Ups:
- 8 slices of white or brioche bread (crusts removed)
- 4 tablespoons softened cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
The Egg Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or cream cheese icing.
Instructions: How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
1. Prepare the Bread
Begin by removing the crusts from each slice of bread. Using a rolling pin, flatten each slice to create a thin, flexible base. This will make rolling and filling a breeze!
2. Create the Cinnamon Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until well combined. This mixture will serve as your delicious filling.
3. Roll and Fill
Spread about one tablespoon of the cinnamon mixture onto one side of each flattened bread slice. Carefully roll each piece into a tight cylinder, sealing the seam as best you can.
4. Make the Egg Mixture
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
5. Dip the Rolls
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or cooking spray. Dip each roll-up in the egg mixture, ensuring it is completely coated. Place them seam-side down in the skillet to prevent them from unraveling.
6. Cook Until Golden Brown
Cook the roll-ups, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown on all sides – about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While still warm, roll each cooked French toast roll-up in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until completely coated.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Top with your choice of maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of cream cheese icing for that classic cinnamon roll touch. Serve warm and watch as they disappear in no time!
Expert Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread is ideal for this recipe because it soaks up the egg mixture better without falling apart.
- Experiment with Fillings: For a fun twist, add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to the cream cheese mixture.
- Mind the Heat: Cooking over medium heat prevents burning and ensures the roll-ups cook evenly.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the roll-ups the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, just dip, cook, and coat for a quick breakfast treat.
Nutritional Information (Per Roll-Up)
- Calories: 150-180 (depending on toppings)
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 8g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups up to the cooking step, store them in the refrigerator overnight, and cook them the next day. Reheat in the oven or skillet for a fresh taste.
2. Can I freeze French Toast Roll-Ups?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen by baking in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. What type of bread works best for this recipe?
White bread, brioche, or challah work best due to their softness and absorbent qualities. Whole wheat bread can be used but may yield a denser texture.
4. Can I make a dairy-free version?
Yes, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk in the egg mixture.
5. Why are my roll-ups falling apart while cooking?
Ensure that the seam side of the roll-up is placed down first in the skillet, which helps to seal it as it cooks. You can also try using a slightly thicker bread slice for more stability.
6. What toppings go well with Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups?
Classic maple syrup and powdered sugar are always a hit, but you can also add whipped cream, chopped nuts, fruit compote, or even melted chocolate for an indulgent twist.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups bring together the best of two breakfast favorites for a treat that’s fun to make and irresistible to eat. Whether for a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, these roll-ups are sure to become a family favorite. With a crispy exterior and gooey cinnamon filling, every bite will remind you why breakfast is the best meal of the day. So, grab your ingredients and treat yourself to the ultimate breakfast delight – you’ve earned it!
Now that you know how to make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups, it’s time to wow your family and friends. What’s your favorite twist on this classic recipe? Let us know in the comments below!
