Name: Cinnamon Roll French Toast: The Ultimate Brunch Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 large cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade), slightly stale is best; 4 large eggs; 1 cup milk (whole or 2%); 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons milk (or more, to desired consistency); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Chopped pecans or walnuts; Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); Maple syrup; Cinnamon sugar

Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Prepare to experience a breakfast revelation! Imagine the gooey, comforting sweetness of a cinnamon roll colliding head-on with the custardy, golden goodness of French toast. It's a flavor explosion that will redefine your brunch game forever.

While the exact origins of this decadent mashup are shrouded in mystery, the inspiration is clear. Cinnamon rolls, with their Scandinavian roots and widespread popularity in American bakeries, represent pure indulgence. French toast, a dish with ancient Roman origins (known then as "Pan Dulcis"), has evolved into a beloved breakfast staple worldwide. Combining these two treats is a stroke of genius, offering the best of both worlds in a single, unforgettable bite.

What makes cinnamon roll French toast so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of textures – the slightly crisp exterior gives way to a soft, pillowy interior, infused with cinnamon-sugar swirls. The creamy custard soaks into every nook and cranny, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! This recipe transforms store-bought (or homemade, if you're feeling ambitious!) cinnamon rolls into a show-stopping breakfast that's sure to impress. Get ready to treat yourself (and your loved ones) to a truly special morning meal!

Ingredients:

For the Cinnamon Roll French Toast:

6 large cinnamon rolls (store-bought or homemade), slightly stale is best
4 large eggs
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking

For the Cream Cheese Glaze:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk (or more, to desired consistency)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

Chopped pecans or walnuts
Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Maple syrup
Cinnamon sugar

Preparing the Cinnamon Roll French Toast Batter

Whisk the Eggs and Dairy: In a large bowl, crack the 4 large eggs. Add the 1 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of heavy cream. The heavy cream adds richness, but you can substitute with more milk if you prefer a lighter version.
Add Sweeteners and Spices: Now, add the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the bowl. The nutmeg really complements the cinnamon and adds a warm depth of flavor. Don't skip it!
Whisk Until Smooth: Using a whisk, thoroughly combine all the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Make sure there are no streaks of egg yolk remaining. A well-mixed batter ensures even coating and cooking.

Soaking the Cinnamon Rolls

Slice the Cinnamon Rolls: Gently slice each cinnamon roll into approximately 1-inch thick slices. You should get about 4-5 slices from each roll, depending on its size. Slicing them this way allows for maximum batter absorption and creates a delicious, custardy interior.
Soak the Cinnamon Roll Slices: Place the cinnamon roll slices into the prepared egg mixture. Ensure that each slice is fully submerged in the batter. Let them soak for about 2-3 minutes per side. This soaking time is crucial for the cinnamon rolls to absorb the batter and become soft and decadent. Don't rush this step! If the rolls are very stale, you might need to soak them for a bit longer.
Gentle Handling: Be gentle when flipping the cinnamon roll slices to avoid breaking them. They will be quite delicate after soaking.

Cooking the Cinnamon Roll French Toast

Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. The butter should coat the bottom of the skillet evenly. The butter not only prevents sticking but also adds a lovely golden-brown color and rich flavor to the French toast.
Cook the First Batch: Carefully lift the soaked cinnamon roll slices from the batter, allowing any excess batter to drip back into the bowl. Place the slices onto the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd it. Cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
Cook Until Golden Brown: Cook the cinnamon roll French toast slices for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach about 165°F (74°C). Use a spatula to gently flip the slices.
Repeat with Remaining Slices: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and repeat the cooking process with the remaining cinnamon roll slices. Make sure to adjust the heat if the skillet becomes too hot or not hot enough.
Keep Warm (Optional): As the cinnamon roll French toast slices are cooked, you can keep them warm in a preheated oven (200°F or 93°C) until ready to serve. This prevents them from getting cold while you finish cooking all the slices.

Preparing the Cream Cheese Glaze

Cream Together Butter and Cream Cheese: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and softened unsalted butter. Use an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer) to cream them together until smooth and fluffy. Make sure both the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature for easy creaming.
Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture, beating on low speed until combined. Adding the powdered sugar gradually prevents it from creating a cloud of dust.
Add Milk and Vanilla: Add 2 tablespoons of milk and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat until smooth and creamy. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Add a Pinch of Salt: Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of the glaze.
Adjust Consistency: Adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more milk if needed. You want it to be thick enough to coat the French toast but thin enough to drizzle easily.

Assembling and Serving

Plate the French Toast: Arrange the cooked cinnamon roll French toast slices on plates.
Drizzle with Glaze: Generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the French toast.
Add Toppings (Optional): Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts, fresh berries, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar, if desired.
Serve Immediately: Serve the cinnamon roll French toast immediately while it's warm and the glaze is still soft.
Enjoy!: Enjoy your decadent and delicious Cinnamon Roll French Toast!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Cinnamon Roll French Toast recipe is truly a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their breakfast or brunch game. It's the perfect marriage of two beloved classics, offering a delightful symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. The warm, comforting spice of cinnamon, the soft, pillowy texture of the French toast, and the sweet, creamy glaze all come together in perfect harmony. Trust me, this isn't just breakfast; it's an experience! What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity and the sheer joy it brings. It's surprisingly easy to whip up, even on a busy weekday morning, and the results are always impressive. Imagine the smiles on your family's faces when they wake up to the aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the air. This Cinnamon Roll French Toast is guaranteed to become a family favorite, a go-to recipe for special occasions, or simply a way to treat yourself to something truly delicious. But the fun doesn't stop there! This recipe is incredibly versatile, offering endless possibilities for customization. Feel free to experiment with different types of bread, such as brioche or challah, for an even richer and more decadent experience. You could also add a touch of citrus zest to the egg mixture for a bright and refreshing twist. Serving Suggestions and Variations: * Classic Style: Serve your Cinnamon Roll French Toast warm with a generous drizzle of the cream cheese glaze. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch. * Berry Bliss: Top with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of fruity flavor and vibrant color. * Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle with melted chocolate or sprinkle with chocolate shavings for an extra dose of sweetness. * Savory Twist: For a savory-sweet combination, serve with a side of crispy bacon or sausage. * Holiday Cheer: During the holidays, add a splash of eggnog to the egg mixture and garnish with cranberries and a dusting of powdered sugar. * Ice Cream Dream: For an ultimate dessert experience, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream. Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different toppings and flavors to create your own signature version of this amazing dish. The possibilities are endless! I truly believe that this Cinnamon Roll French Toast recipe is a winner. It's easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself. Once you do, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what toppings you loved, and how much your family enjoyed it. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you'll love. Happy cooking, and bon appétit! I can't wait to see what delicious creations you come up with!