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Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites

Bite-sized brioche cubes are soaked in a rich custard, fried until golden, coated in cinnamon sugar, and drizzled with a tangy cream cheese glaze. A perfect decadent treat for brunch or dessert.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 870

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast Bites
  • 1 large brioche loaf about 400g, preferably a day old
  • 3 large free-range eggs
  • 120 ml whole milk
  • 60 ml double cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract or bean paste
  • 50 g unsalted butter for frying
  •  
For the Cinnamon Swirl Coating
  • 100 g light brown soft sugar
  • 1.5 tbsp ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
  • 100 g full-fat cream cheese softened to room temperature
  • 50 g icing sugar sifted
  • 2-3 tbsp milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Bread: Using a sharp serrated knife, remove the crusts from the brioche loaf (you can save them for making breadcrumbs). Cut the loaf into thick 2-3 cm slices, and then cut these slices into 2-3 cm cubes. Set aside. Using slightly stale bread is a technique I learned that prevents sogginess, which is a common issue with making perfect French toast.
  2. Make the Custard: In a wide, shallow bowl or dish, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, double cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
  3. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar: In a separate medium-sized bowl, mix the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon together until evenly distributed.
  4. Soak the Bread: Working one cube at a time, dip each piece of brioche into the egg mixture. Let it soak for just 10-15 seconds per side. You want it to absorb the custard but not become completely saturated and fall apart. Place the soaked cubes on a wire rack or baking sheet as you go.
  5. Heat the Pan: Place a large, non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Add about a tablespoon of the butter and allow it to melt and foam.
  6. Fry the Bites: Carefully place a single layer of soaked bread cubes into the hot pan, ensuring you don't overcrowd it. I find that working in two or three batches gives the best results. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, turning with tongs, until all sides are a deep golden brown and crisp.
  7. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: As soon as a batch is cooked, transfer the hot bites directly into the bowl of cinnamon sugar. Toss gently to coat them completely while they're still warm. Place the coated bites on a serving platter. Repeat with the remaining butter and bread cubes.
  8. Make the Glaze: While the last batch is frying, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the sifted icing sugar and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, whisking until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
  9. Serve Immediately: Drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the warm platter of cinnamon roll French toast bites. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Notes

Using day-old brioche is key to preventing the bites from becoming soggy. Serve immediately while warm for the best texture.