🍞🍯✨ Cinnamon Roll French Toast – Gooey, Buttery & Breakfast Bliss in Every Bite!

🍞🍯✨ Cinnamon Roll French Toast – Gooey, Buttery & Breakfast Bliss in Every Bite!

What happens when two breakfast legends collide? Pure magic. 💫 This Cinnamon Roll French Toast combines the best parts of a fluffy cinnamon roll — buttery swirls, brown sugar sweetness, and creamy icing — with the custardy richness of classic French toast. The result is an indulgent breakfast (or brunch) masterpiece that’s soft on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and bursting with cinnamon flavor. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a cozy weekend, or just treating yourself, this recipe transforms a morning classic into something truly extraordinary. Prepare for your kitchen to smell like a bakery — and for everyone to ask for seconds! 🍴

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Servings: 4 Servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the French Toast:

6 thick slices brioche or challah bread slightly stale works best
3 large eggs
¾ cup whole milk or half-and-half for extra richness
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon butter for the pan

For the Cinnamon Swirl Butter:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
2 tablespoons brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze:
2 oz cream cheese softened
2 tablespoons butter softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk adjust to desired consistency
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Whisk
Griddle or nonstick skillet
Spatula
Shallow dish (for dipping bread)
Measuring cups and spoons
Small saucepan (for icing)

Method

Step 1: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until smooth and frothy. Pour into a shallow dish for dipping.

Step 2: Mix the Cinnamon Swirl Butter

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Stir until well blended — this will be brushed onto the bread as it cooks for that signature “roll” flavor.

Step 3: Dip and Cook the French Toast

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a bit of butter.
Dip each bread slice in the custard, soaking for about 5–10 seconds per side (don’t let it get soggy).
Place the dipped slices onto the hot pan.
Brush one side with the cinnamon swirl butter while it cooks.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, flipping when golden and caramelized.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine softened cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar.
Whisk in milk and vanilla until smooth and pourable. Warm slightly before drizzling.

Step 5: Assemble & Serve

Stack the French toast slices high, drizzle generously with the warm cream cheese glaze, and sprinkle with a little cinnamon or powdered sugar for the finishing touch.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Lay slices flat on a tray, freeze, then store in a zip bag for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or pop into a toaster for a crisp finish.

🥄 Variations

Cinnamon Roll Bake: Turn it into a casserole — layer bread in a baking dish, pour custard over, and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Caramel Pecan Twist: Add chopped pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.

Apple Cinnamon Version: Layer sautéed apples between slices for a cozy fall flavor.

Pumpkin Spice Swirl: Add a spoon of pumpkin purée and a dash of nutmeg to the custard.

Stuffed French Toast: Spread cream cheese and cinnamon sugar between two slices before dipping.

Bourbon Glaze: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the icing for an adult brunch.

Chocolate Drizzle: Top with melted chocolate instead of glaze.

Vegan Option: Use almond milk, vegan butter, and plant-based cream cheese.

Mini Roll Bites: Cut bread into cubes and skewer for bite-sized versions.

Overnight Version: Soak bread overnight in the fridge for an ultra-custardy texture.

❓ 10 FAQs

What’s the best bread for French toast?
Brioche or challah — they’re rich, slightly sweet, and soak up custard beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the custard and glaze ahead, then cook the French toast fresh in the morning.

Can I use regular sandwich bread?
You can, but thicker bread makes it more indulgent and less likely to fall apart.

Why does my French toast turn soggy?
You’re soaking it too long or using very fresh bread — slightly stale works best.

Can I skip the cream cheese glaze?
Sure, but it’s what makes this taste like a real cinnamon roll — highly recommended!

Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes per side on a greased sheet for a lighter version.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely — just use gluten-free brioche or thick sandwich bread.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk with a bit of melted butter works perfectly.

Can I add fruit toppings?
Yes — strawberries, blueberries, or caramelized bananas are excellent.

How do I make it extra gooey?
Double the cinnamon swirl butter layer while cooking — that caramelizes beautifully!

🏁 Conclusion

This Cinnamon Roll French Toast is everything you love about breakfast rolled into one — fluffy bread, buttery cinnamon goodness, and creamy glaze dripping down each slice. It’s decadent, cozy, and guaranteed to make any morning feel like a special occasion.

Serve it hot with a steaming cup of coffee or a drizzle of maple syrup if you’re feeling extra indulgent — because some mornings just deserve dessert for breakfast. 🍞💛