Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites Recipe

You get the best of both worlds — crispy French toast edges and gooey cinnamon swirl flavor in every bite.
They’re fun to eat, easy to make, and perfect for sharing.
You can customize the cinnamon sugar mix or add glazes, nuts, or other flavors.
Because they’re small, they cook quickly and are perfect for brunch crowds or family breakfasts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 thick slices white bread (preferably a day old, about 1″ / 2.5 cm thick)
2 large eggs (or 3 small eggs)
¼ cup milk
Pinch of salt
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp butter, divided
Maple syrup, for serving

Directions

Prep the Bread
Trim the crusts from each slice of bread. Cut each slice into 9 equal cubes (so all the bites cook evenly and crisp nicely).
Make the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a shallow bowl, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside for coating.
Fry the First Batch
Heat ½ tablespoon of butter in a nonstick skillet over medium‑high heat. While the butter melts (but before it browns), dip half of the bread cubes into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Transfer them to the hot pan.
Cook 2 to 3 minutes, stirring or flipping occasionally, until all sides are golden and crisp.
Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Immediately move the hot bites into the cinnamon‑sugar bowl and toss to coat evenly. Place the coated bites on your serving plate.
Repeat
Add another ½ tablespoon of butter to the pan. Repeat the process with the remaining bread cubes (dip, cook, coat).
Serve
Serve the warm French toast bites with maple syrup for dipping or drizzling.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 36 bites (from 4 slices × 9 cubes each).

Preparation time: ~10 minutes
Cooking time: ~8 to 10 minutes
Total time: ~18 to 20 minutes

Variations

Add nuts or chocolate: Mix chopped pecans, walnuts, or mini chocolate chips into the egg mixture or sprinkle on top.
Seasoned twist: Swap or add warming spices like pumpkin spice, cardamom, or nutmeg to your cinnamon sugar.
Glazes: Instead of plain syrup, drizzle a simple glaze—maple glaze or cream cheese glaze gives extra richness.
Fruit accents: Toss fresh berries, apples, or a citrus zest into the bites or serve alongside for extra brightness.
Use different bread: Try brioche or challah for even more richness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooled bites in a freezer‑safe bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350 °F (≈ 175 °C) until warmed through and crisp on the edges (about 5–7 minutes). You can also reheat in a skillet over low heat, flipping to crisp each side.

FAQs

What kind of bread works best for these bites?

Day‑old, thick white bread with a bit of firmness works best. It absorbs the egg mixture without falling apart. Brioche or challah also work beautifully for richer flavor.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the bread cubes and cinnamon sugar mix in advance, but fry them just before serving for best texture. Reheating later is possible, but freshly cooked are crispiest.

Is it okay to skip the crust removal?

Yes — leaving the crusts is fine if you don’t mind a bit of extra texture. Removing them results in a more uniform bite.

Can I use a nonstick pan or cast iron?

A nonstick skillet is easiest for even cooking without sticking, but a well‑seasoned cast iron skillet will also work.

What else can I drizzle over them instead of maple syrup?

You can use a simple powdered sugar glaze, cream cheese glaze, honey, or even caramel sauce.

Can I bake instead of pan‑frying?

Yes. Place the coated bites on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375 °F (≈ 190 °C) for about 10–12 minutes, flipping once, until golden.

How do I keep them crisp after coating?

Serve them immediately after coating. If letting them rest, spread them in a single layer so steam doesn’t soften them.

Can I use milk alternatives?

Yes — almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk can be substituted in the egg mixture without affecting flavor much.

Can I reduce sugar or use a sugar substitute?

You can reduce the sugar slightly, but too little will affect flavor. If using a sugar substitute, choose one suitable for cooking and adjust to taste.

What if the bites are soggy inside?

That means they soaked too much egg mixture or weren’t cooked long enough. Use slightly drier (stale) bread and ensure your pan is hot before cooking.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites strike the perfect balance between comfort food and fun finger food. With a golden-crisp exterior, a soft, custardy interior, and the warming sweetness of cinnamon sugar, they’re guaranteed to elevate your breakfast or brunch. Try out the variations, make up your favorite glaze, and enjoy these bites warm—made fresh or reheated—for a delightful treat any morning.