Introduction
If cinnamon rolls and French toast had a delicious breakfast baby, this would be it. These Cinnamon Swirl French Toast Roll-Ups are crispy on the outside, soft and sweet on the inside, and packed with comforting cinnamon flavor. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a cozy, crowd-pleasing breakfast that feels special without being fussy. Perfect for lazy weekends, brunch with friends, or a fun breakfast-for-dinner night with the family, these roll-ups are as fun to make as they are to eat.
Pro Tip:
Use day-old bread for better structure. Slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture without getting too soggy, making it easier to roll and fry to golden perfection.
Serving Suggestions
- Weekend Brunch – Serve with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and a tall glass of fresh orange juice.
- Special Occasion Breakfast – Add whipped cream and berries for a pretty plate during holiday mornings or birthday surprises.
- On-the-Go Treat – Cool them slightly, wrap in parchment, and take along for a sweet road trip snack.
Variations
- Cream Cheese Filling – Add a swipe of softened cream cheese before the cinnamon sugar for a cinnamon roll-style richness.
- Nutella Swirl – Swap the butter for Nutella and skip the cinnamon sugar for a chocolate-hazelnut twist.
- Vegan-Friendly – Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and a flax egg (1 tablespoon flax + 3 tablespoon water) to make this dairy- and egg-free.
- Whole Grain Boost – Use whole wheat bread and coconut sugar for a fiber-rich, slightly nuttier version.
Equipment Needed
- Rolling Pin – Flattens the bread for easy rolling.
- Mixing Bowls – For the cinnamon sugar and the egg mixture.
- Skillet or Non-Stick Pan – Essential for evenly browning the roll-ups.
- Spatula – Helps flip and cook the roll-ups gently without unrolling.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups – For accuracy and consistency.
Tips for Success
- Don’t over-soak the bread in the egg mixture—just a quick dip on each side is enough.
- Keep the skillet heat on medium to avoid burning the butter or roll-ups.
- Roll tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out while cooking.
- Use softened butter for easy spreading that won’t tear the bread.
- Cook in batches and wipe the skillet between rounds to avoid burned bits affecting flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These French toast roll-ups are easy, quick, and incredibly satisfying. They bring all the flavors of a cinnamon roll without the waiting or rising, and they’re made in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re feeding kids, impressing guests, or treating yourself, this recipe delivers pure comfort with a crispy edge. It’s also endlessly adaptable—once you learn the base, the variations are endless.
Cinnamon Swirl French Toast Roll-Ups Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 6 roll-ups
Calories: 180 kcal per roll-up (estimated)
Ingredients
For the Roll-Ups:
- 6 slices sandwich bread (white or whole wheat), crusts removed
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Egg Mixture:
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter (for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
Directions
- Flatten the Bread
Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice of bread into a thin sheet. - Add Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon. Spread softened butter on one side of each slice, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture. - Roll It Up
Roll each slice tightly from end to end and set aside seam-side down. - Make the Egg Dip
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. - Dip and Coat
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Dip each roll-up quickly in the egg mixture, coating all sides without soaking. - Cook Until Golden
Place roll-ups in the skillet, seam-side down. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning to brown all sides until crisp and golden. - Serve Warm
Transfer to a plate. Top with powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a dollop of whipped cream if you’d like.
Nutrition Information (per roll-up, estimated)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 120mg
FAQ
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Roll and refrigerate them (uncoated) the night before. Dip and cook fresh in the morning.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Let them cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. How do I reheat them?
Reheat in a skillet over low heat or pop them in a toaster oven until warmed through.
4. Can I freeze them?
Yes, after cooking and cooling, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.
5. What can I substitute for the egg?
Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flax + 3 tablespoon water) or your favorite egg substitute suitable for French toast.
