Cinnamon French Toast Roll-Ups

 These are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even an after-school snack. Think of French toast in a spiral form – crunchy on the outside, soft and creamy inside.

Ingredients

For the roll-ups:

• 12 slices soft white or whole wheat sandwich bread (crusts on or off – your preference)

• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, softened (or use ½ cup ricotta or mascarpone)

• 2 tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon, divided

• ¼ cup brown sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)

For the egg dip:

• 3 large eggs

• ⅓ cup milk (any kind)

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)

For cooking & topping:

• 2–3 tbsp butter (for frying)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tsp cinnamon (for rolling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling
In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, and ½ tsp cinnamon until smooth. If using brown sugar, mix it in too.

2. Flatten the bread
Use a rolling pin to gently flatten each slice of bread until very thin (about ⅛ inch thick). This makes rolling easier and prevents cracking.

3. Spread and roll
Spread about 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each flattened slice. Roll up tightly from one edge to the other, like a little cigar. Repeat with all slices.

4. Make the egg dip
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and optional 1 tbsp sugar until smooth.

5. Dip the roll-ups
Quickly dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, turning to coat all sides. Let any excess drip off.

6. Cook
Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt 1 tablespoon butter. Place roll-ups seam-side down first (this helps them stay closed). Cook in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown on all sides – about 2–3 minutes per batch. Add more butter as needed.

7. Coat with cinnamon sugar
While still warm, roll each cooked roll-up in the cinnamon-sugar mixture (¼ cup sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon) until evenly coated.

8. Serve
Arrange on a plate. Serve warm with maple syrup, honey, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Tips for Success

• Remove crusts for a more delicate texture (or keep them for extra bite).

• Don't over-dip – a quick dunk is enough. Soggy bread won't hold its shape.

• Seam-side down first – this seals the roll so it doesn't unroll while cooking.

• Make ahead – roll the filled slices and refrigerate (uncooked) overnight. Dip and cook in the morning.

• Air fryer method – cook at 370°F (188°C) for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Variations

• Strawberry cream cheese – add 1 tbsp strawberry jam to the filling.

• Nutella version – spread Nutella instead of cream cheese mixture.

• Peanut butter & banana – spread peanut butter and add a thin slice of banana before rolling.

• Vegan – use plant-based cream cheese, flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg), and non-dairy milk.

Nutritional Estimate (per roll-up, approximate)

Calories: 180 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 8g | Carbs: 22g | Sugar: 10g

Enjoy your cinnamon‑sweet, golden‑baked French toast roll-ups! They disappear fast.