There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sweet, comforting scent of cinnamon swirling through the kitchen—and this Cinnamon Roll French Toast delivers that cozy vibe in the most delicious way. With just a few basic ingredients, you can transform simple cinnamon swirl bread into a rich, golden-brown breakfast masterpiece, topped with a creamy vanilla glaze. It’s perfect for lazy weekend brunches or an indulgent weekday treat—and the best part? It’s super beginner-friendly and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or just want something quick and impressive, this easy French toast recipe is bound to become a breakfast favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beginner-friendly: Simple steps and no fancy equipment required.
- Quick & easy: Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Kid-approved: Sweet, comforting, and fun to eat!
- Customizable: Make it dairy-free or add your favorite toppings.
- Perfect for brunch: A show-stopping dish that’s deceptively easy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 8 slices of cinnamon swirl bread: Use your favorite brand or any cinnamon-flavored bread.
- 3 large eggs: Helps create that classic French toast custard texture.
- 1 cup milk: Whole, almond, oat, or any milk of choice.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweet, dessert-like flavor.
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: Boosts the spice profile of the bread.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Optional, but adds a warm, aromatic touch.
- Butter or oil for cooking: Try coconut oil for a subtle tropical twist.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the creamy vanilla glaze.
- 2 tbsp milk: Adjust for desired glaze thickness; dairy-free works too.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: For that classic glaze flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll French Toast
- Make the custard: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Dip the bread: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Dip each slice of cinnamon swirl bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides well.
- Cook the toast: Place the soaked slices onto the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve and enjoy: Drizzle the glaze over warm French toast slices and serve immediately. Optional: top with fresh fruit, chopped nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Use slightly stale bread for better absorption and less sogginess.
- Cook low and slow for even browning without burning the sugars in the swirl.
- Wipe the skillet between batches to prevent burned cinnamon bits.
- Add a pinch of salt to the egg mixture to balance sweetness.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Dairy-free: Use almond or oat milk and dairy-free butter.
- Vegan: Swap eggs for a flax egg mixture and use non-dairy milk.
- Protein boost: Add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or protein powder to the custard base.
- Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free cinnamon bread.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or apple slices.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt for extra indulgence.
- Pair with bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs for a complete brunch.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey in place of glaze for a classic touch.
Storage, Freezing, & Reheating Instructions
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Lay cooled slices on a parchment-lined tray, freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave (30 seconds), toaster oven, or skillet until heated through.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! You can prep the egg custard and even pre-soak the bread slices. Store them in the fridge for up to 8 hours before cooking.
Can I use regular white or brioche bread?
Absolutely. If you don’t have cinnamon swirl bread, use soft white, challah, or brioche and just add a little more cinnamon and sugar to the egg mixture.
Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Arrange soaked slices on a parchment-lined sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I thicken or thin the glaze?
Add more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin it out to your liking.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the sweet glaze and cinnamon flavor—feel free to let them help dip the bread or drizzle the glaze.
Closing Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a decadent treat without the hassle, this Cinnamon Roll French Toast is it. It’s easy enough for beginners, indulgent enough for special occasions, and flexible enough to suit just about every taste. Whether you’re serving brunch for friends or enjoying a quiet morning with coffee and comfort food, this recipe is a winner. Be sure to leave a review if you try it, pin it on Pinterest, and check out our other easy breakfast recipes for more delicious ideas!