I enjoy these roll-ups because they combine nostalgia, sweetness, and texture all in one bite. They crisp beautifully on the outside while staying soft and cinnamon-sweet inside. They’re fun to make, easy to customize, and even easier to devour. Since they require only simple ingredients, I can whip them up anytime I want a comforting breakfast treat.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
– 6 slices white bread, crusts removed – 4 oz cream cheese, softened – ¼ cup brown sugar – 1 teaspoon cinnamon – 1 egg – ¼ cup milk – 2 tablespoons butter – maple syrup, for serving
Directions
I flatten each slice of bread with a rolling pin so it rolls easily and seals well.
I mix the cream cheese, brown sugar, and cinnamon together until smooth and creamy.
I spread the filling onto each slice of bread, roll them up tightly, and press the edges to seal. A little water helps keep them closed.
I whisk the egg and milk together in a shallow bowl to make the custard.
I melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. I dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, let the excess drip off, then cook them for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown on all sides.
I serve the roll-ups warm with maple syrup for dipping or drizzling.
– I use brioche or challah bread for extra richness. – I add vanilla extract to the filling for deeper flavor. – I switch the cream cheese filling for Nutella, apple butter, or peanut butter. – I dust them with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish. – I add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for seasonal warmth.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover roll-ups in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I use a skillet or toaster oven so they stay crisp. The microwave works as well but softens them more. I also freeze assembled, un-dipped roll-ups and thaw them before cooking for a quick breakfast option.
FAQs
Can I make these the night before?
Yes. I assemble the roll-ups without the egg dip and refrigerate them overnight. In the morning, I dip and cook them fresh.
Can I bake the roll-ups instead of frying?
Absolutely. I bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once, until golden.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes. I use dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk, and vegan butter.
What kind of bread works best?
Soft sandwich bread rolls easily and absorbs the custard without breaking.
Why are my roll-ups soggy?
This usually happens if the bread soaks too long in the egg mixture. I dip quickly and cook immediately for the best texture.
Conclusion
These cinnamon roll French toast roll-ups turn an ordinary morning into something special with their buttery, cinnamon-scented sweetness. I love how quickly they come together and how fun they are to eat. Whether I’m serving them for brunch, a family breakfast, or a cozy treat, they always bring warm, comforting flavor in every bite.
These gooey, golden roll-ups combine everything you love about cinnamon rolls and French toast—crispy on the outside, sweet and creamy inside.
Author:Ella
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:8–10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:6 roll-ups
Category:Breakfast, Brunch
Method:Pan-Fried
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
6 slices white bread, crusts removed
4 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 egg
¼ cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
Flatten Bread: Use a rolling pin to flatten each bread slice for easier rolling.
Make Filling: Mix cream cheese, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
Fill and Roll: Spread the filling over each slice. Roll up tightly and seal edges with a little water if needed.
Prepare Egg Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk.
Cook Roll-Ups: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Dip each roll-up in the egg mixture, then cook until golden brown on all sides (about 1–2 minutes per side).
Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup for dipping or drizzling.
Notes
Use brioche or challah for an even richer flavor.
Add a drizzle of cream cheese glaze or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
Fillings can be customized — try Nutella, fruit preserves, or peanut butter.
Best served fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in a toaster oven.
Freeze un-dipped roll-ups for a make-ahead breakfast.
