Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

The Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. This easy-to-make dish combines the sweet, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls with the comforting texture of French toast. Perfect for brunch gatherings, holiday breakfasts, or simply a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is sure to impress. The standout feature is its simplicity – in just a few steps, you can create a warm, indulgent dish that your family and friends will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes minimal time to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of cinnamon rolls and French toast is irresistible and appeals to all ages.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or extra maple syrup for a personalized touch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep this dish the night before and bake it in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
• Delicious Leftovers: Enjoy any leftovers as a sweet snack throughout the day!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8 x 8 (20 cm) baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife or pizza cutter

Importance of Each Tool

• 8 x 8 (20 cm) baking dish: This size is perfect for evenly baking the cinnamon roll pieces while ensuring they cook through.
• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without splatter or mess.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your egg mixture is well-blended, which contributes to a smooth custard-like texture.
• Knife or pizza cutter: These tools are essential for quickly cutting the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 can refrigerated cinnamon rolls

For the Custard Mixture

• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup (60 ml) milk, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Topping

• ½ cup (120 ml) maple syrup

How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 375 F (190 C) for at least 20 – 30 minutes before baking. Grease an 8 x 8 (20 cm) baking dish with melted butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

Cut each canned cinnamon roll into 6 – 8 equally sized pieces. Place these pieces in a single layer at the bottom of your greased baking dish. Set aside the icing packet that comes with the rolls for later.

Step 3: Mix the Custard Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs until lightly beaten. Add in the milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, stirring until well combined. Finally, whisk in the maple syrup until everything is thoroughly mixed.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Pour the custard mixture over the prepared cinnamon roll pieces in your baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes. The edges should pull slightly away from the dish’s sides when done. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Allow your Cinnamon Roll French Toast casserole to cool for about 10 – 15 minutes. Top with reserved icing from earlier before serving warm. Enjoy this delicious breakfast treat!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

Cinnamon Roll French Toast is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your breakfast experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Strawberries: Slice fresh strawberries and toss them with a little sugar for added sweetness.
• Bananas: Sliced bananas add creaminess and a soft texture, complementing the warm cinnamon rolls.
• Berries: A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries provides a burst of freshness.

Drizzled with Extra Syrup

• Maple Syrup: A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
• Honey: For a floral note, drizzle honey over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Caramel Sauce: Add decadence with a warm caramel drizzle on top.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, homemade whipped cream adds richness to each bite.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: A dairy-free option that brings a hint of tropical flavor.

Served with Nuts

• Chopped Pecans: Add crunch and nuttiness to your dish by sprinkling chopped pecans on top.
• Walnuts: Their robust flavor pairs well with the sweet cinnamon rolls.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

Perfecting your Cinnamon Roll French Toast requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure every bite is delicious.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the custard soak into the cinnamon rolls evenly for better flavor absorption.
• Don’t skip preheating: Preheating the oven ensures even baking, which is crucial for achieving the right texture.
• Cut cinnamon rolls evenly: Uniform pieces guarantee even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your casserole; overbaking can lead to dryness. Aim for moist crumbs when testing it with a toothpick.
• Rest before serving: Allowing the dish to cool for 10-15 minutes helps set the custard, making it easier to serve.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings and sides to find your perfect combination.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Cinnamon Roll French Toast can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and fruit create a creamy and crunchy contrast.
3. Sausage Links: Turkey or chicken sausage links offer savory flavors that complement sweet dishes well.
4. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a satisfying crunch and hearty element alongside your french toast.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds adds nutrition and vibrancy to your plate.
6. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs are an excellent source of protein, rounding out this breakfast beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overbaking the casserole: If you bake it too long, the custard will dry out. Keep an eye on it and remove when the edges pull away from the dish.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Not cutting the cinnamon rolls evenly: Uneven pieces can bake inconsistently. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even baking throughout.
• Skipping the cooling time: Letting it cool allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier. Don’t rush this step!
• Ignoring the icing packet: The icing adds a delightful finish. Remember to save and apply it after baking for added sweetness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

• Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe.

Can I make this Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance by assembling everything and refrigerating overnight before baking.

What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?

You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water or commercial egg replacers as suitable alternatives.

How do I customize my Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe?

Feel free to add fruits like blueberries or bananas, or sprinkle nuts on top before baking for extra flavor and texture.

Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?

Absolutely! Homemade cinnamon rolls will work wonderfully in this recipe, just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll French Toast Recipe is a delightful twist on two breakfast favorites. It’s easy to make and perfect for celebrations or leisurely weekends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or fruits. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!