Sometimes the best dishes are born from combining two beloved classics. These cinnamon roll French toast bites are a perfect example. They merge the warm, spiced sweetness of a cinnamon roll with the custardy richness of French toast. The result is bite-sized pieces of pure comfort food—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and coated in a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar.
They make a wonderful weekend breakfast, a fun brunch centerpiece, or even a cozy dessert. Served with maple syrup for dipping, or perhaps a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt, they are as versatile as they are delicious. Best of all, they are easy to prepare in under an hour and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Toast Bites
1 loaf (approx. 12 oz) of sturdy white bread, such as Brioche or Challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of fine sea salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, for frying
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
½ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
For Serving (Optional)
Maple syrup, for dipping
Vanilla yogurt or whipped cream
Instructions
Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl or large plate, whisk together the sugar and cinnamon until evenly blended. Set aside.
Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the milk, cream, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully combined. This custard will give the bread cubes their soft, rich texture.
Soak the Bread: Add the bread cubes into the custard mixture. Toss gently until every piece is coated and has absorbed some of the liquid. Allow the bread to sit for 5 to 10 minutes, tossing once or twice to ensure even soaking.
Pan-Fry to Perfection: Heat 1 ½ tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. When the butter begins to foam, add half the soaked bread cubes in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the bites are golden brown and crisp on all sides. Transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining butter and bread cubes.
Coat and Serve: While the bites are still warm, roll them in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture until generously coated. Serve immediately with maple syrup for dipping, or with yogurt or whipped cream if you prefer something lighter.
Serving Suggestions
These little bites are endlessly adaptable. Serve them with maple syrup in small bowls so everyone can dip at their leisure. They also work beautifully with flavored syrups such as caramel or chocolate. For a breakfast spread, pair them with fresh fruit or a simple fruit salad to balance the richness.
If you’re serving them as dessert, consider arranging them in small paper cups or bowls and topping with a drizzle of glaze or melted chocolate. They also make a fantastic treat for a brunch buffet, where guests can pick them up easily with toothpicks.
Tips and Variations
Bread choice is important for both texture and flavor. Brioche and challah are ideal because of their soft crumb and rich flavor, but thick white sandwich bread will work in a pinch. Avoid very soft breads that may fall apart when soaked.
For an extra indulgent version, add a handful of mini chocolate chips or raisins to the custard-soaked bread cubes before frying. If you like a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase the cinnamon in the custard or add a pinch of cardamom for depth.
The cinnamon sugar coating can also be customized. Replace some of the sugar with light brown sugar for a warmer flavor, or add a touch of ground ginger for a subtle twist.
Storage and Make-Ahead
These bites are best enjoyed fresh, while still warm and crispy. However, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a hot oven or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisped again. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to soften the sugar coating.
If you want to prepare ahead for a party or brunch, you can soak the bread cubes in the custard the night before and refrigerate them. When ready to cook, simply fry and coat them before serving.
Why They Work
The genius of this recipe lies in its balance. The custard gives the bread a creamy interior, while pan-frying ensures crisp, golden edges. The cinnamon sugar coating adds sweetness and texture, transforming the bites into something reminiscent of freshly baked cinnamon rolls. Each bite is satisfying, flavorful, and just the right size to keep you reaching for more.
Conclusion
Cinnamon roll French toast bites are a delightful fusion of two classics that brings comfort and fun to the table. Whether served as a weekend breakfast, a special brunch dish, or a cozy dessert, they capture the essence of home-cooked warmth in every bite. Their crispy exterior, fluffy center, and sweet cinnamon sugar finish make them irresistible. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, they are a recipe worth adding to your collection.