The Secret to Perfect Cinnamon French Toast Roll Ups (Easy Recipe)

Cinnamon French toast roll ups combine two breakfast favorites into one irresistible treat that’s ready in just 25 minutes. These bite-sized delights transform simple sandwich bread into a crowd-pleasing breakfast using basic pantry staples you likely already have at home.

We’ve perfected our french toast roll ups recipe to create a fun, customizable morning option that serves three people with about 257 calories per serving. Additionally, these treats can feature various fillings – our favorite is french toast roll ups with cream cheese topped with a tangy glaze that enhances the overall flavor. In fact, the cinnamon roll french toast roll ups can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator, making them perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick yet impressive breakfast solution.

What You Need to Make Cinnamon French Toast Roll Ups

Creating perfect cinnamon French toast roll ups requires just a handful of ingredients and basic kitchen equipment. Let’s explore everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful breakfast treat.

Bread, butter, and cinnamon basics

The foundation of any good French toast roll ups begins with the right bread. Soft white sandwich bread works best for rolling since it’s pliable and won’t tear easily. While white bread is the standard choice, you can experiment with other varieties such as brioche, challah, or even whole grain bread if you prefer.

Butter serves two essential purposes in this recipe – first as part of the delicious cinnamon filling and second for frying the roll ups to golden perfection. Most recipes call for unsalted butter, typically 2-3 tablespoons for cooking.

As for spices, cinnamon is the star of the show. You’ll need ground cinnamon for both the filling (mixed with butter and sugar) and sometimes for the egg batter too. Brown sugar pairs beautifully with cinnamon in the filling, while granulated sugar is often used for the outer coating.

French toast batter ingredients

The classic French toast batter for these roll ups follows a simple formula. You’ll need:

2-3 eggs, well beaten
3 tablespoons of milk (or up to 1/4 cup)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for warmth and complexity
A pinch of cinnamon to enhance the flavor

Some recipes include a small amount of granulated sugar in the batter as well. For a fluffier texture, you might consider adding a little flour to create more of a “batter” consistency rather than a simple egg wash.

Optional fillings like cream cheese or Nutella

While the cinnamon-sugar mixture is delicious on its own, these roll ups shine when filled with something creamy or sweet. Popular options include:

Cream cheese (often softened and mixed with powdered sugar) makes for a tangy-sweet filling that balances the cinnamon perfectly. Nutella creates a chocolate-hazelnut dream that children especially love. Furthermore, you can experiment with peanut butter, cookie butter, various jams, or even lemon curd.

Fresh fruits like diced strawberries, sliced bananas, or blueberries can be added alongside the creamy fillings for added freshness and nutrition.

Tools: rolling pin, skillet, shallow bowls

To prepare these treats, you’ll need several basic tools. First, a rolling pin is essential for flattening the bread slices until they’re thin enough to roll without breaking. Second, you’ll need a skillet or frying pan heated to medium heat for cooking the roll ups until golden brown.

Additionally, two shallow bowls are needed – one for your egg mixture and another for your cinnamon-sugar coating. A sharp knife works best for trimming crusts from bread, and a cutting board provides the perfect surface for preparation.

Step-by-Step: How to Make the Perfect Roll Ups

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! The magic of cinnamon french toast roll ups happens through a simple four-step process that transforms ordinary bread into a delightful breakfast treat.

1. Flatten and prep the bread

First, remove the crusts from each slice of bread using a sharp knife. This step is essential as crusts can prevent the bread from rolling properly. Next, place each slice on a flat surface and use a rolling pin to flatten the bread until it becomes thin and pliable. Press firmly but gently to avoid tearing the bread—you want each slice about 1/8-inch thick. This flattening makes the bread more flexible for rolling and helps create that perfect spiral shape.

2. Mix and spread the cinnamon filling

For the classic cinnamon filling, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Alternatively, prepare cream cheese filling by mixing softened cream cheese with a little powdered sugar. Spread a thin layer of your chosen filling evenly across each flattened bread slice, leaving a small border around the edges. This border prevents the filling from oozing out during cooking. For fruit-filled versions, place diced strawberries or other fruits in a strip about an inch from one end of the bread.

3. Roll tightly and seal edges

Starting from one end (preferably the end with fruit if you’re using it), roll each bread slice into a tight cylinder. The key word here is “tight”—loose rolls may unravel during cooking. Once rolled, gently press along the seam with your fingertips to seal the edge. This sealing is crucial as it helps the roll maintain its shape throughout the cooking process.

4. Dip in egg mixture and fry evenly

In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of cinnamon until well combined. Dip each roll in this mixture, ensuring all sides are coated but not soaked through. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, place the rolls seam-side down in the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, rotating occasionally to ensure all sides become golden brown and slightly crisp. Working in batches of 3-4 rolls prevents overcrowding and allows each piece to cook evenly.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

Even the most experienced home cooks can encounter challenges when making cinnamon french toast roll ups. Let’s explore some practical tips to help you avoid the most common pitfalls.

Use fresh bread for better rolling

Fresh, soft white sandwich bread provides the ideal foundation for perfect roll ups. Nonetheless, if your bread keeps tearing during rolling, it might be too dry. A quick fix is to microwave it for 5-10 seconds to restore pliability. Moreover, when flattening the bread with your rolling pin, apply gentle pressure—pressing too hard can make the bread too thin and prone to tearing. The goal is to achieve a thickness of about 1/8-inch that maintains structural integrity while remaining flexible enough to roll.

Don’t overfill or oversoak

One of the biggest mistakes when making cinnamon french toast roll ups is excessive filling. Consequently, your rolls won’t seal properly and filling will leak during cooking. A tablespoon of filling per slice is typically sufficient. Similarly, avoid oversoaking your roll ups in the egg mixture—a quick 5-10 second dip is enough to coat thoroughly without creating soggy bread. Indeed, properly soaked bread maintains its structure while cooking to golden perfection.

Keep heat at medium to avoid burning

Maintaining proper temperature is crucial for french toast roll ups recipe success. Cook over medium heat to ensure even browning without burning the exterior before the inside cooks. Primarily, if you notice the roll ups browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Furthermore, wiping the pan between batches prevents burnt butter from affecting subsequent batches. Remember to add fresh butter to the skillet as needed for consistent results.

Start frying seam-side down

Upon placing your roll ups in the hot skillet, always position them seam-side down first. This technique helps seal the exposed edge and prevents unraveling during cooking. Cook until golden brown on each side, approximately 1-2 minutes per side. Gently press down on each roll up to create a flat edge against the pan, ensuring all sides cook evenly and maintain their shape throughout the cooking process.

Fun Variations and Add-Ons

The beauty of cinnamon French toast roll ups lies in their incredible versatility. After mastering the basic technique, you can experiment with countless delicious variations that transform this breakfast classic into something truly special.

French toast roll ups with cream cheese

Cream cheese creates a tangy-sweet foundation that balances perfectly with the warm cinnamon flavors. Mix 4 tablespoons of softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until well combined, then spread onto each flattened bread slice before rolling. This creamy filling pairs wonderfully with a dusting of cinnamon sugar on the exterior. For an extra touch of elegance, try flavored cream cheese or add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to your mixture.

Fruit-filled roll ups (banana, strawberry)

Fresh fruits elevate these roll ups to a new level of deliciousness. Diced strawberries combined with cream cheese create a cheesecake-like experience that kids and adults adore. Alternatively, thinly sliced bananas with a spread of almond or peanut butter make for a protein-rich variation. For maximum flavor, arrange about 1-2 teaspoons of diced fruit on one end of the bread before rolling it up tightly. Other excellent fruit options include blueberries, raspberries, peaches, and even apple pie filling.

Chocolate or Nutella versions

Nutella transforms these breakfast treats into an irresistible indulgence. Simply spread a thin layer (about 1/2 tablespoon per slice) of Nutella on each flattened bread piece before rolling. The chocolate-hazelnut spread melts slightly during cooking, creating a gooey center that’s absolutely divine. These versions are particularly popular with children and make an impressive yet simple breakfast for special occasions. Consider pairing Nutella with sliced strawberries or bananas for added freshness.

Healthier swaps: whole grain bread, less sugar

For a more nutritious twist, substitute whole grain bread for white. This simple swap adds fiber while reducing water usage compared to other breakfast proteins. Replace traditional fillings with protein-rich alternatives like Greek yogurt mixed with a touch of honey or maple syrup. For reduced sugar versions, use just 1 tablespoon of sugar for the entire batch instead of the 1/3-1/2 cup called for in some recipes. Adding nut butters not only enhances flavor but also increases protein content for a more satisfying breakfast.

Conclusion

Cinnamon French toast roll ups undoubtedly offer the perfect combination of simplicity and indulgence for breakfast enthusiasts. Throughout this article, we’ve explored how these delightful treats transform ordinary sandwich bread into something extraordinary with just a few basic ingredients and simple techniques. Most importantly, their versatility allows endless customization based on your preferences and what’s available in your pantry.

The beauty of these roll ups lies not only in their delicious taste but also in their practicality. After mastering the basic technique—flattening bread, adding filling, rolling tightly, and frying to golden perfection—you can experiment with countless variations. Whether you prefer cream cheese fillings, fresh fruit additions, or decadent Nutella spreads, these roll ups adapt to suit any craving or dietary need.

Additionally, we’ve shared crucial tips to help you avoid common pitfalls such as tearing bread, overfilling, or burning your roll ups. These insights ensure your breakfast creation turns out picture-perfect every time.

Finally, remember that French toast roll ups work wonderfully as a make-ahead breakfast option. You can prepare them the night before and store them in the refrigerator, thus saving precious morning time without sacrificing a delicious homemade breakfast. This combination of convenience, taste, and versatility makes cinnamon French toast roll ups a breakfast recipe worth adding to your regular rotation.

So next time you’re looking for a breakfast that will impress family or guests without requiring hours in the kitchen, these roll ups might just be your perfect solution. The smile on everyone’s face as they bite into these cinnamon-sugar coated delights will certainly make your minimal effort worthwhile!

FAQs

Q1. What’s the key to making perfect French toast roll ups? The key is to use fresh, soft bread, flatten it gently, spread a thin layer of filling, roll tightly, and cook over medium heat. Avoid overfilling and oversoaking to maintain the roll’s structure.

Q2. Can I prepare French toast roll ups in advance? Yes, you can prepare them the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This makes them a convenient option for busy mornings when you want a quick yet impressive breakfast.

Q3. What are some popular filling options for French toast roll ups? Popular fillings include cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar, Nutella, fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas, and various nut butters. You can also combine fillings for more complex flavors.

Q4. How can I make healthier French toast roll ups? To make a healthier version, use whole grain bread instead of white, reduce the sugar content, and opt for protein-rich fillings like Greek yogurt with a touch of honey. You can also add fresh fruits for extra nutrition.

Q5. What’s the best way to cook French toast roll ups evenly? Cook the roll ups over medium heat, starting with the seam-side down to seal the edge. Rotate them gently to ensure all sides become golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan by cooking in small batches of 3-4 rolls at a time.