Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites (Print version)
Soft, pillowy bites coated in cinnamon sugar and sweet glaze—a breakfast favorite ready in 30 minutes.
# What you'll need:
→ Bread
01 - 8 slices brioche or challah bread, crusts removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
→ Egg Mixture
02 - 3 large eggs
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - Pinch of salt
→ Cinnamon Sugar Coating
08 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
09 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
→ Glaze
10 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
11 - 2 tablespoons milk
12 - 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ For Cooking
13 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
# How to make it:
01 - Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl until fully combined and smooth.
02 - Add bread cubes to the egg mixture and toss gently to coat evenly. Allow to soak for 2–3 minutes to absorb the liquid.
03 - Combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl, mixing until thoroughly blended.
04 - Melt 1 tablespoon butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, tilting to coat the surface evenly.
05 - Using a slotted spoon, transfer soaked bread cubes to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning until all sides are golden brown and crisp. Repeat with remaining butter and bread cubes as needed.
06 - Immediately transfer cooked bites to the cinnamon sugar mixture and toss to coat thoroughly while still warm.
07 - Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a small bowl until smooth and pourable.
08 - Drizzle glaze over warm French toast bites and serve immediately.
# Expert suggestions:
01 -
- These capture everything magical about cinnamon rolls but take a fraction of the time
- The cinnamon sugar coating creates this irresistible crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft custardy center
- You can prep everything in one bowl and have breakfast ready in under 30 minutes
02 -
- Work in batches and dont crowd the pan. These need space to develop proper crispiness on all sides.
- Let the bites cool for about 2 minutes after coating. The sugar needs a moment to set so it doesnt immediately slide off when you add the glaze.
- These are best eaten immediately. They lose their magical texture contrast as they sit.
03 -
- Cast iron skillets give these the best exterior crunch, but nonstick is easier for cleanup
- If your glaze is too thick, add milk one teaspoon at a time. Too thin and it runs right off instead of clinging.