What’s the ultimate breakfast treat when you’re short on time? These cinnamon roll french toast bites are a game changer – soft and fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and made with sweet cinnamon and fresh chives. Perfect for a quick homemade breakfast or easy weeknight dinner. Save this idea for a family favorite meal that’s sure to please.

cinnamon roll french toast bites are stacked on top of each other and topped with chives

Introduction

Imagine waking up to a breakfast that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning – cinnamon roll French toast bites stacked on top of each other and topped with a sprinkle of chives. This creative twist on traditional French toast is surprisingly easy to make and requires everyday ingredients. The combination of cinnamon rolls, transformed into a French toast, and topped with the freshness of chives, offers a flavor balance that’s both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast idea for the weekend or a unique dish to serve at a brunch gathering, this recipe is sure to impress with its ease, flavor, and creativity.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The use of cinnamon rolls as the base for French toast provides a sweet and spicy flavor profile that’s instantly appealing. The addition of chives adds a fresh and savory note, balancing out the sweetness.
• Ease of preparation: This recipe simplifies the process of making French toast by using pre-made cinnamon roll dough, which can be found in most grocery stores. This eliminates the need for mixing and proofing dough from scratch.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the presentation of stacked French toast bites topped with chives is impressive and perfect for special occasions or when you want to make a memorable breakfast.

Key Ingredients

The main ingredients for this recipe include cinnamon rolls, eggs, milk, butter, cinnamon, and chives. For the cinnamon rolls, you can either use store-bought ones or make your own if you prefer. The eggs and milk are used to make the custard mixture that the cinnamon rolls are dipped into before cooking. Butter is used for greasing the pan and adding flavor. Cinnamon is sprinkled on top for extra spice and warmth. Finally, chives are used as a topping to add freshness and color. Practical substitutions could include using different types of milk (almond, soy, etc.) for those with dietary restrictions and substituting chives with other fresh herbs like parsley or basil.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Cut the cinnamon rolls into bite-sized pieces. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon until well combined.
2. Step 2: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Dip each cinnamon roll piece into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly, and then place on the skillet or griddle. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
3. Step 3: As the French toast bites are cooked, stack them on top of each other on a serving plate. You can hold them together with toothpicks if needed, to create a neat stack.
4. Step 4: Once all the French toast bites are stacked, melt a small amount of butter and drizzle over the top. Sprinkle with additional cinnamon if desired, and finally, top with chopped chives. Serve warm and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet or griddle when cooking the French toast bites, as this can lower the temperature of the pan and affect the cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
• For an extra crispy exterior, you can chill the dipped cinnamon roll pieces in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking.
• Experiment with different flavors by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the egg mixture or using different spices like nutmeg or cardamom.

Heat Control

When cooking the French toast bites, it’s crucial to maintain a medium heat. If the heat is too high, the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked. Ideal cooking time is about 2-3 minutes per side, but this can vary depending on the size of your bites and the heat of your pan. Look for a golden brown color as a sign of doneness.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the crispy exterior of the French toast bites, which contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. To achieve this, ensure that the pan is hot before adding the French toast, and don’t overcrowd the pan. If desired, you can also add some chopped nuts or cinnamon sugar on top of the French toast before serving for an extra crunchy element.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For a professional finish, consider using a kitchen torch to lightly caramelize the top of the stacked French toast bites after they’re assembled.
• To make the dish more substantial, you can serve the French toast bites with a side of maple syrup, fresh fruits, or even a dollop of whipped cream.
• Keep your workspace clean and organized by preparing all ingredients before starting to cook, and have a trash can handy for disposing of egg shells and packaging.

Storage Tips

• Leftover French toast bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked French toast bites. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when needed.
• When reheating, you can add a sprinkle of water on top of the French toast bites to help retain moisture.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a breakfast or brunch gathering, you can package the French toast bites in a decorative tin or a mason jar. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and a few chives on top for a pop of color. Include a small bottle of maple syrup or a bag of fresh coffee on the side for a complete gift. You could also wrap individual portions in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and tie with a ribbon for a more personalized touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to the egg mixture for unique flavor profiles.
• Creative toppings: Instead of chives, use other fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or mint. You could also top with chopped nuts, chocolate shavings, or caramel sauce for a sweet treat.
• Ingredient swaps: Use different types of milk or substitute the eggs with a flax egg for a vegan version. You could also experiment with gluten-free cinnamon rolls for a dietary restriction-friendly option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your French toast bites are too dense, it might be because the egg mixture was too thick. Try adding a little more milk to thin it out. If they’re too soggy, it could be because they were not cooked long enough or at too low a heat.
• Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have chives, you can substitute with scallions or even a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on the color and texture of the French toast bites. They should be golden brown and firm to the touch when cooked through. If they’re pale or soft, they need more cooking time.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked French toast bites for up to 2 months. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
• Is it gluten-free? Not unless you use gluten-free cinnamon rolls. However, this is a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Just ensure you have enough space on your skillet or griddle to cook all the French toast bites in batches if necessary.

Conclusion

This recipe for cinnamon roll French toast bites stacked on top of each other and topped with chives is a game-changer for any breakfast or brunch gathering. It’s easy, impressive, and offers a unique flavor profile that’s sure to delight both kids and adults. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and ingredients to make the dish your own, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need further substitutions or variations. Happy cooking, and enjoy the ooohs and ahhhs as you present this stunning dish to your family and friends!