Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups

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There’s something magical about warm cinnamon, melted butter, and golden, crisp edges that brings comfort in every bite. That’s exactly why I fell for these Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups. They’re easy to make, fun to serve, and ridiculously good—especially fresh off the skillet with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The aroma alone draws everyone into the kitchen before the plate even hits the table.

I first started making these on lazy weekends when I wanted something indulgent but low-effort. They’re essentially a fusion between classic French toast and cinnamon rolls, rolled up into compact bites of joy. What makes them irresistible is the soft, gooey center balanced by the crisp outer layer, all dusted with a cinnamon sugar finish. If you’ve never had them before, you’re in for a new brunch favorite.

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Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups

• Effortless but impressive – They look fancy, but they’re incredibly simple to make.
• Kid-friendly and adult-approved – Perfect for family breakfasts or a cozy brunch spread.
• Customizable – Fill them with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit for added flair.
• Make-ahead friendly – You can prep them the night before and cook them in the morning.
• Perfect texture – Soft, sweet, and crispy all at once.

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What Kind of Bread Works Best for Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups?

When it comes to making roll-ups that stay together and soak in flavor, white sandwich bread is my go-to. It’s soft, pliable, and easy to flatten without cracking. You want a bread that won’t crumble when rolled but also doesn’t fight back too much when you press it thin.

Avoid hearty breads like sourdough or multigrain—they’re too dense and won’t roll smoothly. If you’re leaning toward something richer, brioche or challah are dreamy options. They give the roll-ups a decadent touch and a hint of sweetness that complements the cinnamon sugar perfectly.

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Options for Substitutions

Making this recipe your own is easy, and here’s how you can swap out a few ingredients:

• Bread: Use gluten-free white bread if needed, or try brioche for a more indulgent bite.
• Filling: Instead of plain butter and cinnamon sugar, spread a thin layer of cream cheese, peanut butter, or Nutella before rolling.
• Milk: Dairy-free options like almond, oat, or soy milk work just as well in the egg mixture.
• Eggs: If you’re avoiding eggs, use a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) or a vegan egg replacer.
• Butter for frying: Swap for coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine to keep it vegan-friendly.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon for a flavor twist.

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Ingredients for These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating that warm, nostalgic flavor and irresistible texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• White sandwich bread
  Soft and flexible, this bread is easy to roll without breaking, making it ideal for achieving that tight cinnamon swirl.
• Cream cheese (optional filling)
  If you’re adding a filling, cream cheese provides a rich, tangy contrast that melts beautifully when heated.
• Cinnamon sugar
  The heart of the flavor! A blend of cinnamon and sugar creates that classic sweet warmth you expect from a cinnamon roll.
• Butter (melted)
  Used to brush the outside before frying and to help the cinnamon sugar stick after cooking, adding richness and golden color.
• Eggs
  Essential for coating the roll-ups and giving them that custard-like texture during cooking—just like traditional French toast.
• Milk
  Helps thin the egg mixture so it coats the bread evenly without becoming too dense.
• Vanilla extract
  Just a dash enhances the flavor with a hint of sweetness and warmth.
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  Optional, but adds a finishing touch and makes them look as good as they taste.

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Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting off the crusts from each slice of white bread. Then, using a rolling pin, gently flatten each slice. This makes the bread more pliable and easier to roll tightly without tearing.

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Step 2: Add the Filling (Optional)

If you’re using a filling like cream cheese or Nutella, spread a thin layer across one side of each flattened slice. Don’t go too close to the edges—it’ll squeeze out when rolled.

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Step 3: Roll the Bread

Starting at one end, tightly roll each slice into a log. Give it a gentle press at the seam to help it stay sealed.

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Step 4: Mix the Egg Coating

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. This mixture will soak into the bread as it cooks and give the roll-ups that custardy French toast finish.

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Step 5: Dip the Roll-Ups

One by one, dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, making sure it’s well coated on all sides but not dripping wet.

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Step 6: Cook in Butter

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt a bit of butter. Place the roll-ups seam-side down and cook, turning often, until they’re golden brown on all sides. This should take about 5–7 minutes.

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Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

While still warm, roll each cooked piece in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar until evenly coated. The warmth helps the sugar stick perfectly.

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Step 8: Serve Warm

Transfer to a serving plate and dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

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How Long to Cook the Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups

Once you’ve dipped the roll-ups in the egg mixture, the cooking process is quick and satisfying. Each roll-up takes about 5 to 7 minutes in a preheated skillet over medium heat. You’ll want to rotate them every minute or so to ensure all sides develop that golden, crispy exterior. The key is even heat and patience—don’t crank the heat too high, or the outsides will brown before the inside cooks through.

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Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups

• Use fresh, soft bread – Stale or dry bread will crack when rolling and won’t absorb the egg mixture as well.
• Don’t oversoak – Dip quickly into the egg mix. Letting them soak too long can lead to soggy, limp roll-ups.
• Seal the edge when rolling – Press gently at the seam to help it stay shut during cooking.
• Rotate frequently – Turn the roll-ups often while cooking to achieve an even, golden brown color on all sides.
• Cook in batches – Don’t overcrowd the pan. Too many at once will steam instead of crisp.
• Keep them warm – If cooking for a crowd, keep finished roll-ups warm in a low oven (around 200°F/95°C) until ready to serve.
• Make ahead tip – You can prep and refrigerate the rolled, uncooked pieces a few hours in advance, then dip and fry when ready.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups are simple, a few missteps can take them from perfect to disappointing. Here’s what to avoid:

• Using dry or crusty bread – This can cause cracking when rolling and doesn’t absorb flavors well.
• Skipping the egg-milk mix – It’s what makes the roll-ups soft inside and golden outside. Don’t skip or skimp on it.
• Overfilling with spread – Too much filling will ooze out while cooking, making a mess in your pan.
• Cooking on high heat – A common mistake that leads to burnt outsides and raw centers. Medium heat is best.
• Not rolling tightly enough – Loose rolls will fall apart during cooking and won’t hold their shape.
• Letting them sit too long before coating – Roll in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm so it sticks properly.

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What to Serve With Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups?

Balance the sweetness with some fresh, savory, or light additions. Here are some great ideas:

Fresh Berries

Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries brighten the plate and add a juicy, tart contrast.

Greek Yogurt

A cool, creamy scoop pairs beautifully with the warmth of the roll-ups and adds some protein.

Scrambled Eggs

A simple savory element helps round out the sweetness and creates a full breakfast experience.

Bacon or Sausage

The salty, crispy bite of bacon or sausage links complements the soft, sweet roll-ups perfectly.

Maple Syrup or Honey

Drizzle on the side for extra sweetness or dipping—just don’t drown the cinnamon flavor.

Whipped Cream

For a more dessert-style brunch, a small dollop of whipped cream turns this into a treat.

Chai or Spiced Coffee

A warm, spiced drink really emphasizes the cinnamon notes in the roll-ups.

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Storage Instructions

Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored if you have leftovers:

• Refrigerator: Store cooled roll-ups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to bring back the crisp texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
• Freezer: Yes, they freeze well! Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10–12 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.

Pro tip: Skip rolling in cinnamon sugar before freezing—do that after reheating for the best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough estimate for 1 roll-up (based on a standard recipe with no added fillings):

• Calories: 110–130
• Carbohydrates: 15–18g
• Sugars: 7–9g
• Fat: 5–7g
• Protein: 3–4g
• Sodium: 120–150mg
• Fiber: 0.5–1g

These numbers will vary depending on the bread type, filling, and whether you use dairy or non-dairy milk.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best bread to use for roll-ups?

Soft white sandwich bread works best—it’s easy to flatten and roll without tearing. Brioche is a richer option if you want something a little fancier.

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Can I make these the night before?

Yes! You can prep and roll them the night before, then store covered in the fridge. In the morning, just dip in egg mixture and cook.

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Do I have to use butter to cook them?

Butter adds flavor and helps with browning, but you can use a neutral oil like coconut or vegetable oil if you prefer.

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What if I don’t have cinnamon sugar?

Just mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon—easy homemade cinnamon sugar!

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Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) on a greased or lined baking sheet for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy but still delicious.

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How do I keep them from unrolling?

Press the seam side down in the pan first to seal it with heat. Also, roll them snugly from the start and press gently at the end.

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Are they good cold?

They’re best warm, but if stored well, they’re still tasty at room temp. For best results, reheat before serving.

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Can I fill them with fruit or other spreads?

Absolutely! Try sliced strawberries, mashed banana, or spreads like Nutella, peanut butter, or even jam.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Roll-Ups are the ultimate breakfast treat—crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated with sweet cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch, special holiday morning, or just to satisfy a craving, they’re guaranteed to bring smiles. The best part? They’re endlessly customizable and fun to make. Once you’ve had a batch, you’ll want to keep them in your breakfast rotation forever.

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