Name: Glazed Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into bite-sized cubes; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; Pinch of salt; Butter or oil for cooking; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for icing, optional); 1–2 tablespoons milk (for icing, optional); 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing, optional)

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Soft, gooey, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor, these Glazed Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites bring together the best parts of cinnamon rolls and classic French toast in one easy, delicious bite. With a crispy, cinnamon-sugar coating and a soft, custardy center, they make for a fun and cozy breakfast or brunch option. I like to serve them warm with a drizzle of icing or a splash of maple syrup when I want something sweet and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Glazed Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the French Toast Bites:

1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into bite-sized cubes

4 large eggs

½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey

2 tablespoons brown sugar

Pinch of salt

Butter or oil for cooking

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Optional Icing Drizzle:

½ cup powdered sugar

1–2 tablespoons milk

¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

In a medium bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, maple syrup or honey, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.

I add the bread cubes into the bowl and gently toss until each piece is soaked in the egg mixture. I let them sit for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavor.

In a separate small bowl, I mix the granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for the coating and set it aside.

I heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a bit of butter or add oil.

I place the soaked bread cubes on the hot skillet and cook them for about 2–3 minutes per side, turning until all sides are golden brown and crisp. I work in batches if needed.

Once cooked, I immediately toss the bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture so they get evenly coated.

For an optional icing, I whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and drizzle it over the bites before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Variations

Stuffed Version: I sometimes tuck a small cube of cream cheese or Nutella inside each bread piece before soaking for an extra surprise.

Savory Twist: I reduce the sugar and cinnamon, add a pinch of cayenne, and serve with bacon for a sweet-salty combo.

Vegan Option: I use a flax egg substitute, plant-based milk, and skip the icing or use vegan powdered sugar.

Different Breads: I’ve used leftover cinnamon raisin bread and even croissants for added richness.

Baked Instead of Fried: To lighten things up, I bake them at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or use a toaster oven for a crisper finish. The icing may melt slightly, so I like to re-drizzle after reheating if needed. For longer storage, I freeze the bites in a single layer on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. I reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

How do I keep the French toast bites from getting soggy?

I let the bread soak just long enough to absorb the custard but not so long that it breaks down. Using slightly stale brioche or challah helps hold the shape and texture better.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare the soaked bread cubes the night before and store them in the fridge. I cook them fresh in the morning and toss in cinnamon sugar before serving.

What kind of bread works best?

Brioche and challah are my go-to choices because they’re rich and soft, but sturdy enough to hold the custard. Any thick-cut, slightly stale bread will work.

Can I make these in the oven instead of the skillet?

Absolutely. I spread them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.

What can I serve with these bites?

I usually pair them with fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or breakfast sausage for a full brunch spread. A dollop of whipped cream or side of yogurt also works great.

Conclusion

Glazed Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites are one of my favorite ways to make breakfast feel special without much effort. They combine the cozy flavor of cinnamon rolls with the ease of French toast, and they’re ready in just 20 minutes. Whether I’m hosting brunch or just treating myself on a lazy morning, these little bites always hit the spot.

Recipe:

Glazed Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Soft, gooey, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor, these Glazed Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites combine the best parts of cinnamon rolls and French toast into one easy and delicious breakfast or brunch option.

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, maple syrup or honey, brown sugar, and salt until smooth.
Add bread cubes to the bowl and gently toss to coat. Let them sit for 2–3 minutes to absorb the mixture.
In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon to make the cinnamon sugar coating. Set aside.
Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt butter or add oil.
Place soaked bread cubes on the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning until all sides are golden and crisp. Work in batches if needed.
Immediately toss cooked bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture to evenly coat.
Optional: In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make icing, then drizzle over bites before serving.