What’s the secret to a stress-free morning routine? Making a delicious homemade breakfast like these cinnamon sugar french toast roll-ups, made with thick slices of bread and cooked to a golden brown perfection with a hint of cinnamon. Try this easy and quick recipe on your next weeknight dinner turned breakfast for dinner night, save this idea for a family favorite meal.

cinnamon sugar french toast roll – ups on a white plate

Introduction

Imagine starting your day with a dish that combines the warmth of cinnamon, the sweetness of sugar, and the comfort of French toast, all rolled into a delightful package. The cinnamon sugar French toast roll-ups are a creative twist on traditional breakfast fare, using everyday ingredients to create a truly impressive and delicious meal. This recipe is perfect for those looking to elevate their breakfast game without spending hours in the kitchen. With its ease of preparation, accessibility of ingredients, and the potential for customization, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cinnamon and sugar provides a perfect balance of warmth and sweetness, while the ingredients are easily found in most kitchens.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation, the dish is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring minimal cooking skills and time.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The roll-up design makes for a visually appealing dish that looks like it requires much more effort than it actually does, perfect for impressing guests or making a special breakfast for loved ones.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include thick slices of bread (preferably a day-old bread for better absorption of egg mixture), eggs, milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and butter or oil for frying. For those looking for substitutions, almond milk or other non-dairy milk can be used for a dairy-free version, and different types of sugar like brown sugar can offer a slightly different flavor profile. The bread can also be substituted with gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until well combined. In another dish, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Lay out your slices of bread and flatten them slightly using a rolling pin to make them easier to roll.
2. Step 2: Dip each flattened slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly, then roll up the bread tightly. Repeat with all slices.
3. Step 3: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat with a small amount of butter or oil. Once heated, place a few of the bread rolls into the skillet, leaving enough space between them to cook evenly. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. While still warm, roll the French toast rolls in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
4. Step 4: Serve the cinnamon sugar French toast roll-ups warm on a white plate. They can be accompanied by maple syrup, fresh fruits, or whipped cream for added flavor and texture. For an extra-special touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with powdered sugar.

Handy Tips

• Use day-old bread for better absorption of the egg mixture, making the rolls less likely to fall apart when cooking.
• Don’t overfill the skillet; cook the rolls in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
• For an extra crispy exterior, you can chill the rolled bread in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking.

Heat Control

When cooking the French toast rolls, it’s essential to maintain a medium heat. If the heat is too high, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. Ideal cooking time is about 2-3 minutes per side, but this can vary depending on the thickness of your bread and the heat of your skillet. The rolls are done when they’re golden brown and firm to the touch.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the cinnamon sugar coating. To achieve the perfect crunch, make sure to coat the rolls in the sugar mixture while they’re still warm, as this helps the sugar stick. For an extra crunchy coating, you can also try dipping the rolls in the cinnamon sugar mixture twice, once before cooking and once after, though be cautious not to overdo it to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier rolling, chill the bread slices in the freezer for a few minutes before flattening and rolling. This will make them firmer and less prone to tearing.
• To keep the rolls warm while cooking the rest, place them on a baking sheet in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F). This will keep them warm without continuing to cook them.

Storage Tips

• Leftover French toast rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven when ready to serve.
• For longer storage, the rolls can be frozen after cooking and cooling. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen rolls in the toaster or oven until warmed through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These cinnamon sugar French toast roll-ups make for a lovely breakfast or brunch gift, especially when presented in a charming way. Consider placing a few rolls in a decorative tin or jar, wrapped in a ribbon or twine, and accompanied by a small jar of maple syrup or a bag of fresh coffee. For a more personal touch, include a handwritten note with the recipe and suggestions for toppings or variations.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a unique flavor twist.
• Creative toppings: Experiment with various toppings such as chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even candy pieces to add texture and flavor contrast.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the bread with croissants or brioche for a richer, more buttery flavor, or use different types of milk and sugar for varying flavor profiles.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the rolls are too dense, it might be due to using too much egg mixture or not cooking them long enough. If they’re too dry, the bread might be too old or overcooked.
• Ingredient replacements: Always consider the flavor and texture you’re trying to achieve when substituting ingredients. For example, almond milk will give a lighter, slightly nutty flavor compared to regular milk.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the color and texture of the rolls while they’re cooking. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch when done. If they’re pale, they might not be cooked enough, and if they’re too dark, they might be overcooked.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the French toast rolls can be frozen after cooking and cooling. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 2 months.
• Is it gluten-free? The recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread. However, always ensure that the other ingredients, such as the cinnamon, are processed in a gluten-free environment to avoid cross-contamination.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled or even tripled. Just ensure you have enough space in your skillet to cook the rolls in batches if necessary, to prevent overcrowding.

Conclusion

The cinnamon sugar French toast roll-ups are a delightful breakfast or brunch option that combines ease of preparation with impressive presentation and delicious flavor. With its versatility in ingredients and toppings, it’s a recipe that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking to spice up your morning routine or impress guests with a special meal, this dish is sure to please. So, don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own, and most importantly, enjoy the process and the delicious results!