If you are searching for a unique way to jazz up your breakfast or brunch, you simply must try the delightful French Toast Roll-Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Toppings Recipe. Imagine soft, fluffy bread rolled tightly around a luscious cream cheese filling that’s lightly sweetened and spiced, then dipped in a cinnamon-egg batter and cooked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a heavenly contrast between crispy edges and a creamy heart, elevated with your favorite toppings from fresh berries to maple syrup. This dish transforms classic French toast into a fun, handheld treat that’s perfect for sharing or impressing guests with something truly special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet each contributes its own magic to create a dish bursting with flavor, texture, and color. With just a few staples from your pantry and fridge, you’ll be on your way to French toast bliss.
- 1 loaf of sliced bread: Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast work best, providing a soft but sturdy base that holds the roll-up shape without falling apart.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The creamy star of the filling, lending richness and softness that melts in your mouth.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the tangy cream cheese.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with warm, aromatic notes for a comforting finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds gentle spiced warmth to both the filling and egg mixture for a harmonious flavor profile.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for the classic French toast dip, creating that golden and crisp exterior.
- 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the egg mixture to ensure the coating is smooth and penetrates the bread evenly.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For cooking the roll-ups, giving them a rich, buttery crust that’s irresistibly crisp.
- Optional toppings: Maple syrup, fresh berries, chocolate sauce, whipped cream—these add personalized finishing touches and color.
How to Make French Toast Roll-Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Toppings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Begin by softening the cream cheese until it’s delightfully spreadable—if you forget to take it out ahead, a careful zap in the microwave for 15-20 seconds does the trick. In a bowl, combine this softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, then blend until perfectly smooth and creamy. This filling is your luscious base, so feel free to tweak the sweetness or vanilla to suit your taste buds before setting it aside.
Step 2: Prep the Bread for Rolling
Next, trim off the crusts of each bread slice using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors—this makes rolling easier and results in a tender bite. Flatten each slice gently with a rolling pin or a smooth bottle until it’s about a quarter-inch thick, transforming the bread into pliable sheets ready for spreading.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Spread a thin, even layer of your cream cheese filling across each flattened bread slice. Don’t overload it; roughly a tablespoon or two will do to keep the roll-up neat and prevent oozing. Carefully roll up each slice tightly like a tiny jelly roll, and if needed, lightly brush the edge with milk or water to help seal the seam.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture and Dip
Whisk together the eggs, milk, and a touch of cinnamon in a shallow dish until smooth and homogeneous. This cinnamon-spiked custard bath is what gives the roll-ups their classic French toast flavor and their golden hue once cooked.
Step 5: Cook the Roll-Ups to Perfection
Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat, ensuring it coats the pan for even cooking. Quickly dip each roll-up in the egg mixture, coating all sides without soaking too long, then place seam-side down on the skillet. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes until beautifully golden and crispy. Work in batches if needed to keep the heat consistent and avoid sogginess.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
Once cooked, let the French Toast Roll-Ups drain briefly on a wire rack or paper towel to remove excess butter. Serve them warm with an array of toppings ready for drizzling or sprinkling. This is where the fun really begins—whether you prefer fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, whipped cream, or chocolate sauce, the choice is yours to make each roll-up uniquely irresistible.
How to Serve French Toast Roll-Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Toppings Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes elevates the presentation and taste of your French Toast Roll-Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Toppings Recipe. Fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries not only add a vibrant pop of color but also provide a refreshing tartness that complements the sweetness wonderfully. A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a swirl of chocolate or caramel sauce takes these bite-sized delights from delicious to spectacular.
Side Dishes
Pair these roll-ups with fresh fruit salad, a light green salad, or even crispy bacon for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch. The contrast between the sweet, creamy roll-ups and savory or fresh sides becomes a delightful play of flavors on your plate, pleasing anyone from kids to adults alike.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn the serving into an interactive experience by arranging an assortment of toppings in small bowls and letting everyone decorate their own French Toast Roll-Ups? You can also stack them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing at gatherings, or cut them into bite-sized pieces for a fun brunch finger food option. Presentation really brings this recipe to life and makes it memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any French Toast Roll-Ups left after your feast, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that while they’re still tasty, they are best enjoyed fresh to maintain that crisp exterior and creamy filling texture.
Freezing
To enjoy these treats later, freeze the fully assembled, cooked roll-ups by wrapping them individually in parchment paper then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 1 month. This way, you can always pull out a quick breakfast or snack that feels homemade and special.
Reheating
Reheat your French Toast Roll-Ups by placing them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make them soggy. Reheating this way revives the delightful contrast between crunchy outside and creamy inside that makes the recipe so beloved.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread besides Challah or Brioche?
Absolutely! While Challah, Brioche, and Texas Toast are ideal for their softness and sturdiness, you can use any sliced bread you have on hand. Just be sure to flatten it well so it rolls easily without breaking.
Is it necessary to trim off the crusts?
Trimming crusts makes rolling neater and softer to eat, but if you like a bit of extra texture, you can leave them on. Just keep in mind that crusts might make rolling a little trickier.
Can I make these French Toast Roll-Ups vegan or dairy-free?
You can try substituting cream cheese with a vegan alternative and using plant-based milk and butter substitutes. The texture and flavor might differ slightly, but it’s a great way to enjoy a version that fits your dietary preferences.
What are some fun topping ideas beyond the classics?
Try adding crushed nuts for crunch, coconut flakes for tropical flair, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Warm fruit compotes also make a lovely, slightly tart contrast to the sweet filling.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking?
Spreading a thin layer of filling and rolling the bread tightly are key to keeping the filling inside. Brushing the seam edge with a bit of milk or water before rolling helps seal it securely.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about French Toast Roll-Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Toppings Recipe that brings comfort, creativity, and joy to your breakfast table. Whether you make them for a lazy weekend brunch or a special occasion, these roll-ups are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, get rolling, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a little breakfast happiness that feels like a warm hug in every bite!
Print
French Toast Roll-Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Toppings Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
French Toast Roll Ups combine soft, rich bread with a creamy cinnamon vanilla filling, quickly cooked until golden and crispy in a skillet. This easy and fun breakfast or snack recipe offers delicious variations with optional toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, and whipped cream, making it perfect for all ages.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf of sliced bread (Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast work best)
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons butter
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup
- Fresh berries
- Chocolate sauce
- Whipped cream
Instructions
- Soften the Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is soft by leaving it at room temperature or microwaving for 15-20 seconds while being careful not to melt it.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon until smooth and creamy using an electric mixer or whisk.
- Taste Test and Adjust: Taste the filling and add more powdered sugar or vanilla extract to customize sweetness and flavor as desired. Set aside.
- Trim the Crusts: Use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to remove the crusts from each slice of bread carefully.
- Flatten the Bread: Place a slice on a cutting board and gently roll it out with a rolling pin, empty wine bottle, or large glass until it is about 1/4 inch thick without breaking.
- Spread the Filling: Spread a thin, even layer (about 1-2 tablespoons) of the cream cheese mixture over each flattened bread slice without overfilling.
- Roll It Up: Starting at one end, tightly roll the bread into a small cylindrical shape. If needed, brush the seam with a little milk or water to help seal the roll-up.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
- Melt Butter in Skillet: Heat butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, coating the surface evenly to prevent sticking.
- Dip Roll-Ups: One at a time, quickly dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, coating all sides evenly but not soaking them.
- Cook Roll-Ups: Place dipped roll-ups seam-side down in the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Drain Excess Butter: Remove cooked roll-ups and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess butter.
- Serve Warm: Serve the roll-ups immediately while warm and crispy.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle with maple syrup, sprinkle with powdered sugar, add fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or other toppings as desired.
- Enjoy: Savor the crispy bread exterior combined with the smooth, sweet cream cheese filling and toppings for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Notes
- Use thick bread slices like Challah or Brioche for best texture and flavor.
- Don’t over-soak the roll-ups in the egg mixture to avoid sogginess.
- Cooking in batches ensures even browning and crispiness.
- Customize fillings by adding fruit preserves or other flavorings to the cream cheese mixture.
- Serve immediately for best texture; reheating may reduce crispiness.
- Optional toppings allow for personalized flavor combinations.
