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Fluffy Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

cinnamon roll french toast bites - featured image

These pillowy, golden French toast bites are inspired by classic cinnamon rolls, featuring a crisp cinnamon sugar coating and a creamy glaze. Perfect for brunch, breakfast, or a sweet treat, they come together quickly and deliver cozy comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 10 cups, 16 oz)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for pan-frying)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk (more if needed for thinning)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Cube the brioche or challah bread into 1-inch pieces (about 10 cups). If bread is very fresh, dry cubes in a low oven (300°F) for 5-10 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and slightly frothy.
  3. Add bread cubes to the custard, gently tossing to coat. Let sit for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Pour mixture onto a plate.
  5. Use a slotted spoon to lift bread cubes from custard, letting excess drip off. Roll each piece in cinnamon sugar, coating all sides.
  6. Melt butter and oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until butter bubbles slightly.
  7. Add coated bread cubes in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip each bite. Continue cooking another 2-3 minutes until all sides are golden and crisp. Work in batches if needed.
  8. Transfer bites to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to cool and prevent sogginess.
  9. In a bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Add more milk for a thinner glaze if desired.
  10. Drizzle glaze over warm bites and serve immediately.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread for best texture. Don’t overcrowd the pan to keep bites crispy. For gluten-free or dairy-free, substitute bread and milk as needed. Bites can be baked at 350°F for 12-15 minutes for a lighter version. Glaze consistency can be adjusted with more milk or powdered sugar. Leftovers reheat well in a toaster oven or air fryer.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast bites, cinnamon roll, brunch, breakfast, easy, cream cheese glaze, kid-friendly, skillet, sweet, comfort food