Cinnamon Roll French Toast Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional French toast, combining the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the crispy, golden exterior of French toast. These rolls are perfect for a special breakfast or brunch, bringing a touch of sweetness and a lot of joy to your table. I first tried this recipe on a lazy Sunday morning, and it quickly became a favorite in our household. The smell of cinnamon filling the kitchen is enough to get anyone out of bed and ready to enjoy a delicious start to the day.

Ingredients

• 6 slices brioche sandwich bread
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 2 tablespoons half and half
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt
• Powdered sugar for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Flatten each slice of brioche bread with a rolling pin until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Cut off the crusts to create uniform, flat pieces of bread. This makes rolling easier and helps them hold their shape better during cooking.

Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until well combined. This sweet, buttery spread will be the filling for your rolls.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Spread a thin layer of the butter mixture evenly over each flattened slice of bread. Sprinkle the bread generously with ground cinnamon. Starting from one end, roll up each slice tightly to form a roll. Set the rolls aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a shallow plate or bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This mixture will coat the rolls and help create a golden, crispy exterior.

Step 5: Coat the Rolls

Dip each bread roll into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides. Let any excess drip off before placing the rolls into the air fryer basket.

Step 6: Air Fry the Rolls

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked, remove the rolls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve with a side of maple syrup for dipping.

Tips and Variations

• Bread Choice: While brioche is recommended for its rich, buttery flavor, you can also use other types of sandwich bread. Just make sure it’s fresh and soft.
• Additions: For a different flavor, you can add a sprinkle of nutmeg or pumpkin spice along with the cinnamon.
• Cooking Options: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can cook the rolls in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter until golden brown on all sides.
• Filling Variations: Try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or adding a few chocolate chips to the butter mixture for a fun twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these rolls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the rolls and store them in the refrigerator overnight. Just dip them in the egg mixture and cook them fresh in the morning.

Q: Can I use a different type of bread? A: Yes, any soft sandwich bread will work. Brioche is preferred for its flavor and texture, but regular white bread or even whole wheat can be used.

Q: What can I serve with these rolls? A: These rolls are great on their own or with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or bacon for a more complete breakfast.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to regain their crispiness.

 

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Rolls are a delicious and fun way to start your day. They bring together the best of both cinnamon rolls and French toast, resulting in a sweet, crispy treat that everyone will love. Enjoy these rolls with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of maple syrup, and watch them disappear from the plate. Happy cooking!