Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about breakfast that combines comfort food favorites. When I first stumbled upon the idea of Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups, I knew I had to try it. The thought of sweet cinnamon butter rolled into soft bread, dipped in egg and fried until golden brown, had my taste buds dancing. Not only are these roll-ups delicious, but they also bring back cherished memories of family breakfasts filled with laughter and love. After making them for my family, I can confidently say that they quickly became a breakfast staple. The kids couldn’t get enough, and even the adults were sneaking back for seconds! If you’re looking to impress your family or add a special touch to your breakfast routine, this recipe is sure to do the trick.

Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Butter and Bread:

• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 8 slices thick, soft bread (crusts removed)

For the French Toast Mixture:

• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coating:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 1-1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, room temperature
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Make Cinnamon Butter and Prepare the Bread

1. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup softened butter, light brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Remove the crusts from the 8 slices of bread and use a rolling pin to flatten each slice into a thin sheet.
3. Spread a thin layer of the cinnamon butter mixture evenly on each slice, making sure to cover the entire surface.
4. Roll each slice tightly to form a log, securing the filling inside.

Step 2: Prepare the French Toast Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, 1/4 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Quickly dip each rolled-up piece of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring that it is fully coated but not soaked.

Step 3: Cook the Roll-Ups

1. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Fry the roll-ups, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 4: Coat the Rolls

1. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
2. Once the rolls are fried, immediately roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat them fully.
3. Set aside on a serving plate.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Icing

1. In a bowl, mix together softened butter, cream cheese, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy.
2. Transfer the icing to a piping bag for easy drizzling, or serve it in a small dish as a dip.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450
• Total Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 360mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 55g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 7g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Drizzle the cream cheese icing over the roll-ups.
• Serve warm on a platter.
• Garnish with additional cinnamon or powdered sugar if desired.
• Pair with fresh fruit, like strawberries or bananas, for a refreshing side.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or your favorite breakfast beverage!

Additional Tips

1. Use Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, use slightly stale bread that can hold its shape when rolled.
2. Experiment with Flavors: Try adding nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the cinnamon butter for a seasonal twist.
3. Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in the cream cheese icing to suit your taste.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the roll-ups the night before, store them in the fridge, and cook them fresh in the morning.
5. Dip Variation: Consider adding maple syrup or chocolate sauce as a dip alongside the cream cheese icing.

Recipe Variations

• Fruit-Filled Roll-Ups: Add thin slices of bananas or strawberries inside the roll-ups for a fruity surprise.
• Nutty Twist: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the cinnamon butter mixture for added crunch.
• Savory Option: For a savory spin, skip the cinnamon and sugar and fill the rolls with cheese and cooked sausage.
• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the bread with a gluten-free variety to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based butter, almond milk, and a flax egg to create a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with whipped cream for a decadent touch.
• Pair with a light salad or yogurt for a balanced meal.
• Enjoy with hot chocolate or a fruity smoothie for a delightful breakfast spread.
• Make it a brunch buffet item, alongside other breakfast favorites like pancakes and eggs.
• Serve with flavored syrups like caramel or vanilla for added indulgence.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use any type of bread?
   Yes, while thicker bread works best, you can use any soft bread like brioche or challah.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, prepare the roll-ups the night before, store them in the fridge, and cook them fresh in the morning.
4. What can I substitute for the cream cheese icing?
   You can use whipped cream, yogurt, or even a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk.
5. How do I prevent the rolls from unrolling while cooking?
   Make sure to roll them tightly and consider securing them with a toothpick during cooking.
6. Can I make a smaller batch?
   Absolutely! You can easily halve the recipe to make fewer roll-ups.
7. What can I serve these with?
   They pair well with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even bacon for a hearty breakfast.
8. Can I use non-dairy alternatives?
   Yes, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use non-dairy milk for the mixture.
9. Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?
   Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
10. How do I know when they’re done frying?
    They should be golden brown and crispy on all sides.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups are an indulgent and fun breakfast treat that combines the best of both worlds. With their sweet cinnamon flavor and rich cream cheese icing, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you serve them for a special occasion or a cozy weekend breakfast, these roll-ups are bound to bring smiles to the table. So grab your ingredients and enjoy the delightful experience of making and sharing this delicious dish!

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