Mini Cinnamon Roll–Style French Toast Bites

If you love the comforting taste of cinnamon rolls and the familiar appeal of classic French toast, this easy recipe brings the best of both together in one warm, bite sized breakfast treat. Mini cinnamon French toast bites are crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and filled with cozy cinnamon sweetness in every bite. They feel indulgent without being heavy, making them perfect for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or any day when you want breakfast to feel a little more special without spending hours in the kitchen.

The idea for this recipe comes from a simple desire to enjoy the flavors of cinnamon rolls without the long preparation and rising time that traditional recipes require. Refrigerated cinnamon roll dough offers a convenient shortcut while still delivering rich flavor and that signature cinnamon swirl. By slicing the dough into small pieces and coating them in a lightly spiced French toast mixture, you can transform a familiar store bought ingredient into something that feels homemade and thoughtfully prepared. The result is a golden, skillet cooked breakfast that can be ready in under twenty minutes from start to finish.

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is how approachable it is, even for beginner cooks. There is no kneading, no waiting for dough to rise, and no complicated techniques involved. To begin, you simply open one tube of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside for later use. Each roll is then cut into small, evenly sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly. Keeping the pieces bite sized also makes them ideal for serving to kids or sharing at the table.

Next, prepare the French toast coating. In a medium bowl, whisk together two eggs, about one third cup of milk, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a light sprinkle of ground cinnamon. This mixture adds warmth and depth of flavor without overpowering the cinnamon already present in the dough. Gently toss the dough pieces in the mixture, making sure they are coated on all sides. It is important not to let them soak too long, as you want them flavorful but not soggy.

Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter to prevent sticking and add richness. Place the coated dough pieces in a single layer and cook them slowly, turning occasionally so all sides become evenly golden brown. This process usually takes only a few minutes per side. As they cook, the outside becomes lightly crisp while the inside stays soft and tender. For a quicker or hands off option, these bites can also be prepared in an air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, cooking for six to eight minutes and shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.

Once cooked, gently warm the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls and drizzle it over the bites just before serving. You can adjust the amount based on your preference, or add a dusting of powdered sugar or a splash of maple syrup for extra sweetness. These bites are best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight from the pan or air fryer.

With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe turns an ordinary morning into a cozy and satisfying experience. Served alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a hot cup of coffee, mini cinnamon French toast bites offer a comforting start to the day that both kids and adults are sure to enjoy.