French Toast Roll-Ups are the breakfast game-changer you’ve been waiting for! These delightful little treats transform the classic French toast into a fun, handheld version that’s perfect for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or even a sweet afternoon snack.
I first made these for my family on a lazy Sunday morning, and they’ve been requesting them ever since. The crispy, cinnamon-sugar coated exterior gives way to a soft, warm center that can be customized with your favorite fillings. They’re like breakfast sushi rolls that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This
- Kid-friendly and perfect for little hands to hold (and help make!)
- Customizable with endless filling options from cream cheese to Nutella to fruit
- Make-ahead friendly – prepare the night before and cook in the morning
- Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely already have
- Perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, warm interior
Ingredients
- 10 slices bread
- 10 fully cooked sausage links
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Butter for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Use a rolling pin or your hands to flatten each slice of bread. You can trim off the crusts if you prefer a neater look.
- Place one sausage link at the edge of each flattened bread slice and roll up tightly. Set the roll-ups aside on a plate.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and flour until completely smooth with no lumps.
- Preheat your griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Grease generously with butter to prevent sticking.
- Dip each sausage roll-up into the egg mixture, rolling gently to coat all sides evenly. Place on the hot, buttered griddle.
- Cook for a few minutes on each side, turning gently and frequently, until golden brown all around. This takes about 8-10 minutes total.
- Remove from heat and serve immediately while warm with maple syrup for dipping or drizzling.
Tips & Variations
- Try different fillings like Nutella, peanut butter, apple butter, or fresh berries.
- For savory roll-ups, use scrambled eggs and cheese as filling and skip the cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Fresh bread works best as it’s more pliable; slightly stale bread may crack when rolling.
- If the roll-ups won’t stay closed, secure them with toothpicks before dipping (remove before serving).
- For a make-ahead option, prepare the roll-ups the night before and store covered in the refrigerator.
- Add a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts to the filling for extra crunch and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
These French Toast Roll-Ups are delicious on their own, but they really shine when served alongside a variety of dipping options. Try offering small bowls of maple syrup, honey, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruit compote. For a complete breakfast spread, serve with a side of crispy bacon or breakfast sausage and a bowl of fresh fruit salad.
For brunch gatherings, create a roll-up bar with different fillings and toppings so everyone can customize their own. Pair with a mimosa for adults or fresh orange juice for the kids!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- The roll-ups are done when they’re golden brown on all sides and feel firm to the touch.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking – work in batches for best results.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white?
Yes, though whole wheat bread is less pliable. You may need to roll it more gently to prevent tearing.
Can I freeze these French Toast Roll-Ups?
Yes! Cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes.
How do I prevent the filling from oozing out?
Use a light hand with spreadable fillings and leave a small border around the edges of the bread. Make sure to seal the roll by pressing gently on the seam.
Can I make these without eggs?
For an egg-free version, try dipping in a mixture of milk, cornstarch, vanilla, and cinnamon, though the texture will be slightly different.
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