Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are a delightful fusion of two breakfast favorites—cinnamon rolls and French toast. These sweet roll-ups feature a creamy filling, a warm cinnamon-sugar coating, and a golden, crispy exterior. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack, they’re easy to make and absolutely irresistible when served warm with syrup or glaze.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe brings together the comforting taste of cinnamon rolls and the classic texture of French toast in one handheld treat. Soft on the inside and crisp on the outside, these roll-ups are filled with sweet cream cheese and rolled in a spiced sugar coating for a satisfying crunch. They’re quick to prepare, family-friendly, and make for a visually fun and tasty dish that can be served for special occasions or lazy weekends alike.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Roll-Ups:
white bread or brioche
cream cheese, softened
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
butter, melted
granulated sugar
ground cinnamon
For the Egg Mixture:
large eggs
milk
cinnamon
vanilla extract
For Cooking & Serving:
butter, for cooking
maple syrup or cream cheese glaze, for drizzling
Directions
1. Prepare the Bread
Trim the crusts off each slice of bread.
Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice into a thin sheet.
2. Make the Filling
In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese filling over each flattened bread slice.
3. Roll & Coat
Roll up each slice tightly and place seam-side down.
In a shallow dish, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract to create the custard for dipping.
4. Cook the Roll-Ups
Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
Dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.
Place the roll-ups seam-side down in the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crisp.
Immediately roll the warm roll-ups in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat them.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Drizzle with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze for extra indulgence.
Serve warm and enjoy every cinnamon-swirled bite.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 8 roll-ups, serving 2–4 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 20 minutes
Variations
Nutella-Filled: Spread a thin layer of Nutella before rolling for a chocolate-hazelnut twist.
Fruit-Filled: Add a few thin slices of banana or strawberry along with the cream cheese.
Savory Option: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, and fill with ham and cheese for a savory French toast roll-up.
Add Spices: Use a dash of nutmeg or cardamom in the sugar coating for added warmth.
Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based cream cheese, almond milk, and vegan butter if preferred.
storage/reheating
Store leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through or reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy. For best texture, serve fresh.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare and assemble the roll-ups ahead, refrigerate them, and cook them just before serving.
Can I freeze the roll-ups?
Yes, freeze uncooked roll-ups after dipping in egg mixture. Store in a single layer, then reheat from frozen in a skillet or oven.
What type of bread works best?
Soft white bread or brioche is ideal. Avoid whole grain or seeded bread for this recipe.
Can I use flavored cream cheese?
Yes, cinnamon, honey, or vanilla-flavored cream cheese makes a great filling alternative.
Do I have to roll them in sugar after cooking?
Rolling in sugar is optional but adds a delicious cinnamon crunch. You may skip it or use a light dusting instead.
What kind of glaze can I use?
A simple cream cheese glaze or powdered sugar icing works well. Maple syrup is also a classic topping.
How can I keep them warm for serving?
Place cooked roll-ups on a baking sheet in a warm oven (200°F/95°C) until ready to serve.
Are these kid-friendly?
Absolutely—they’re a hit with children and make for a fun breakfast or snack.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, use your preferred gluten-free sandwich bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What pairs well with this dish?
Serve with scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, or a side of bacon for a complete brunch spread.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are a creative and indulgent breakfast option that combines the cozy flavors of cinnamon rolls with the golden crispness of French toast. With their creamy filling, sweet coating, and satisfying texture, these roll-ups are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, a holiday morning, or as a special weekend treat, they’re a warm and welcoming addition to any table.

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 roll-ups
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fun and flavorful twist on classic French toast! These roll-ups are filled with sweet cream cheese, rolled in cinnamon sugar, and pan-fried until golden. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert!
Ingredients
For the Roll-Ups:
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8 slices white bread (or brioche)
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4 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1/4 cup powdered sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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1/3 cup granulated sugar
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1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Egg Mixture:
-
2 large eggs
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1/4 cup milk
-
1/2 tsp cinnamon
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For Cooking & Serving:
-
2 tbsp butter, for cooking
-
Maple syrup or cream cheese glaze, for drizzling
Instructions
1. Prepare the Bread
-
Trim crusts from bread slices.
-
Flatten each slice using a rolling pin.
2. Make the Filling
-
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
-
Spread a thin layer on each bread slice.
3. Roll & Coat
-
Roll each slice tightly, seam-side down.
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Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow dish.
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In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.
4. Cook the Roll-Ups
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Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
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Dip roll-ups in egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
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Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
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Immediately roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm.
5. Serve & Enjoy
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Drizzle with maple syrup or cream cheese glaze.
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Serve warm for the ultimate sweet treat!
Notes
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Try brioche for an extra soft and buttery bite.
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Add Nutella or fruit jam for a flavorful filling twist.
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Best served warm, but can be reheated in a toaster oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
- Method: Pan-Fry