Strawberry and Cinnamon French Toast Roll-Ups

French toast is a classic breakfast favorite, but these Strawberry and Cinnamon French Toast Roll-Ups take it to the next level with a fun twist! These bite-sized rolls are filled with a creamy strawberry and cinnamon mixture, then dipped in a sweet egg batter and fried until golden brown. Perfect for a special weekend breakfast or brunch, these roll-ups combine the freshness of strawberries with the warmth of cinnamon, offering a delicious balance of sweet and savory. Whether served on their own or with a dusting of powdered sugar, these roll-ups are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re easy to make, and they bring a new twist to the traditional French toast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Strawberry and Cinnamon French Toast Roll-Ups are the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and fruity. The creamy filling, made from fresh strawberries and cream cheese, is a surprising and delicious contrast to the crispy, golden French toast exterior. The touch of cinnamon and sugar adds a sweet warmth that perfectly complements the fresh fruit inside. Not only do these roll-ups taste amazing, but they’re also visually appealing and fun to eat, making them a great choice for a family breakfast or brunch gathering. The versatility of the recipe allows you to easily customize the filling or toppings to suit your preferences. Whether you serve them with syrup, whipped cream, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream, these roll-ups will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

• White sandwich bread
• Fresh strawberries, diced
• Cream cheese, softened
• Eggs
• Milk
• Cinnamon
• Sugar
• Butter (for frying)

Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize these French toast roll-ups:

1. Substitute the Fruit: Use different fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even banana slices to create a new flavor.
2. Add a Nutty Twist: Add some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the filling for an added crunch.
3. Make it Dairy-Free: Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free version and use plant-based milk to make this recipe suitable for those with dairy restrictions.
4. Add a Drizzle: Drizzle the roll-ups with chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for an extra decadent treat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Flatten the Bread

Use a rolling pin to flatten each slice of bread to create a more pliable base for rolling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, diced strawberries, and cinnamon until well combined.

Step 3: Fill the Bread

Spread a spoonful of the strawberry cream cheese mixture onto each flattened slice of bread, then roll the bread up tightly and secure with a toothpick.

Step 4: Make the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and sugar until smooth.

Step 5: Heat the Skillet

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.

Step 6: Dip and Cook the Roll-Ups

Dip each roll-up into the egg mixture, ensuring it is well coated, then place it in the skillet. Cook until golden brown on all sides, turning occasionally.

Step 7: Remove the Toothpicks

Before serving, make sure to remove the toothpicks from each roll-up.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the roll-ups warm, optionally topped with powdered sugar, syrup, or whipped cream.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide the best flavor, but you can also use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available.
• Don’t Overfill: Be sure to spread the filling evenly and not overstuff the bread to ensure they roll up tightly and cook properly.
• Adjust the Cinnamon: If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, you can reduce the amount or leave it out altogether.
• Use a Non-stick Skillet: A non-stick skillet can make the frying process easier, ensuring the roll-ups don’t stick and cook evenly.
• Keep Warm: If making a large batch, keep the roll-ups warm in the oven on a low setting while you cook the rest.

How to Serve

These French toast roll-ups are perfect for a breakfast or brunch table. Serve them as a main dish with sides of fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or bacon. They can also be enjoyed as a snack or dessert with a drizzle of syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. You can even add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These French toast roll-ups are best served fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a warm skillet or oven until heated through.

Freezing

To freeze, place the cooked roll-ups in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Reheating

Reheat the roll-ups in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white bread?

Yes, whole wheat bread works well in this recipe, adding a nuttier flavor.

2. Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?

You can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time, but it’s best to cook them fresh for the best texture and taste.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free option and use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.

5. How do I prevent the roll-ups from falling apart while cooking?

Make sure to tightly roll the bread and secure it with a toothpick before cooking to keep it together.

6. Can I use other fruits in the filling?

Absolutely! You can use bananas, blueberries, or raspberries instead of strawberries for a different flavor.

7. Can I add a topping to these roll-ups?

Yes, these roll-ups are delicious with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or whipped cream on top.

8. How long do I need to cook the roll-ups?

Cook the roll-ups for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

9. Can I make these roll-ups gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread to make these roll-ups suitable for those with gluten restrictions.

10. Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the strawberry cream cheese filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Conclusion

These Strawberry and Cinnamon French Toast Roll-Ups are the perfect breakfast or brunch treat, offering a fun and flavorful twist on traditional French toast. The creamy, fruity filling combined with the crispy, cinnamon-coated exterior makes for an irresistible bite-sized treat. With easy preparation and the option to customize the filling, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next breakfast or family gathering. Enjoy them warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or your favorite topping for a truly delightful meal!

Print