If you’re craving a breakfast treat that feels special yet is surprisingly easy to whip up, this French Toast Roll Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Delicious Toppings Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine soft, golden-brown rolled slices of bread filled with a luscious, sweet cream cheese mixture and finished off with your favorite toppings. Each bite bursts with creamy, warm indulgence balanced by textures that will keep you coming back for more. It’s the perfect dish to brighten up your morning or impress guests with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is the best part of this recipe, as each one plays a vital role in creating the ultimate combination of texture, flavor, and color. From the richness of cream cheese to the delicate sweetness of powdered sugar, every component adds something special.
- Sliced bread (Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast): These types provide a soft yet sturdy base that rolls easily and crisps up beautifully.
- Cream cheese, softened: Offers the creamy, tangy filling that balances the sweetness and adds richness.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling smoothly without grittiness, blending perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm, aromatic depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- Ground cinnamon: Incorporated twice for a warm spice note, both inside and on the egg wash.
- Large eggs: The binder for the French toast coating, helping create that golden crust.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the egg mixture.
- Butter: Ensures the roll ups brown evenly and develop a crisp, buttery exterior.
- Optional toppings (maple syrup, fresh berries, chocolate sauce, whipped cream): These let you customize your roll ups with delightful bursts of sweetness and texture.
How to Make French Toast Roll Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Delicious Toppings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Start by softening your cream cheese so it’s creamy and easy to mix—if you forgot to soften it beforehand, a quick 15 to 20 seconds in the microwave works wonders. Then combine it with powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, mixing until the filling becomes a smooth, irresistible blend. This creamy mixture is the heart of your roll ups, so take a moment to taste and adjust sweetness or vanilla to your liking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Trim off the crusts carefully from each slice to make rolling easier and neater. Then, flatten each slice gently with a rolling pin or a sturdy bottle, aiming for about a quarter-inch thickness. This step ensures the bread is soft enough to roll tightly without cracking, giving you that perfect bite-sized roll with a consistent texture throughout.
Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups
Spread a thin, even layer of the cream cheese filling over each flattened bread slice. Don’t overfill or the filling will spill out during cooking. Then, starting from one edge, roll the bread up tightly into a neat cylinder. If the seam doesn’t stick easily, a quick brush of milk or water will help seal it, keeping everything nicely tucked inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Whisk the eggs, milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon together until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This flavorful egg bath will coat your roll ups, lending that classic golden-brown French toast finish with a hint of cinnamon to keep the flavor profile cozy and inviting.
Step 5: Cook the Roll Ups
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, coating the surface to prevent sticking and add rich flavor. Dip each roll up quickly into the egg mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated but not soggy. Cook them seam-side down first, turning carefully every 2 to 3 minutes until all sides are golden and crisp. Cooking in batches ensures the pan stays hot and your roll ups get perfectly caramelized.
How to Serve French Toast Roll Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Delicious Toppings Recipe
Garnishes
Adding delightful garnishes turns these French Toast Roll Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Delicious Toppings Recipe into a feast for the eyes and palate. Think powdered sugar dusting for a snowy touch, or drizzle on pure maple syrup for classic sweetness. Fresh berries add a gorgeous pop of color and tart contrast, while whipped cream offers a luscious finishing touch that melts into every bite.
Side Dishes
For a balanced breakfast or brunch, pair these roll ups with crisp bacon or sausage for savory contrast. A fresh fruit salad or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice provide refreshing brightness that complements the richness of the dish, rounding out your meal with vibrant textures and tastes.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the roll ups on a pretty platter with bowls of assorted toppings nearby, encouraging guests or family members to customize their own. Alternatively, slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces for fun finger food, perfect for brunch buffets or celebratory gatherings. The versatility of this recipe invites you to play with presentation and make it a visual and flavorful highlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. They retain their flavor well, though the crispy exterior may soften slightly. Reheating can bring back some of that freshly cooked magic.
Freezing
You can freeze uncoated roll ups before cooking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. When you’re ready, cook them directly from frozen, adding a couple more minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cooked roll ups in a skillet over medium-low heat to restore crispness or in a toaster oven for convenience. Microwaving is faster but may yield a softer texture. Just warm until heated through and enjoy the delightful cream cheese filling with that golden exterior all over again.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast are recommended for their perfect texture, you can experiment with sandwich bread or even gluten-free varieties. The key is to choose bread that is soft but not crumbly for easy rolling and crisping.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Yes, you can substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just make sure your bread is vegan as well. Cooking times and textures may vary slightly but the result will still be delicious.
What toppings work best with French Toast Roll Ups?
The classic toppings are maple syrup, fresh berries, and whipped cream, but don’t be afraid to get creative. Chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut can add unique flavors and textures.
Can I prepare the roll ups in advance for a party?
Definitely! You can assemble and roll them ahead of time, then store them in the fridge before cooking. Cook them fresh just before serving for the best crispness and flavor.
What’s the best way to prevent the roll ups from falling apart while cooking?
Be sure to roll the bread tightly and seal the seam with a little milk or water if needed. When cooking, place seam-side down first and handle them gently when turning to keep everything neatly intact.
Final Thoughts
French Toast Roll Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Delicious Toppings Recipe is a delightful spin on a classic breakfast favorite that promises smiles at any table. Whether making it for a casual weekend brunch or a special occasion, it’s a warm hug on a plate that’s easy to customize and enjoy. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share the joy of tender, creamy, rolled French toast with your loved ones. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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French Toast Roll Ups with Cream Cheese Filling and Delicious Toppings Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
French Toast Roll Ups are a delicious and fun twist on classic French toast, featuring creamy sweetened cream cheese filling rolled inside slices of bread, dipped in a cinnamon-spiced egg mixture, and cooked to golden perfection in a skillet. This easy recipe is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a tasty snack, with endless topping variations to satisfy every palate.
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf of sliced bread (Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast work best)
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 softened at room temperature or microwave it for 15-20 seconds until soft but not melted.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Mix Until Smooth: Beat the filling mixture with an electric mixer until completely smooth and lump-free.
- Taste Test (Optional): Adjust sweetness or vanilla flavor by adding more powdered sugar or vanilla extract if desired.
- Set Aside Filling: Set the creamy filling mixture aside while preparing the bread.
- Trim the Crusts: Use a sharp knife or scissors to remove crusts from each bread slice carefully.
- Flatten the Bread: Place each bread slice on a cutting board and gently roll it flat with a rolling pin or substitute until about 1/4 inch thick.
- Repeat Flattening: Continue trimming and flattening all bread slices.
- Spread Filling: Spread approximately 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cream cheese filling evenly over each flattened bread slice.
- Roll It Up: Starting from one side, tightly roll up each slice like a jelly roll.
- Secure the Seam (Optional): Lightly brush the seam with milk or water to help it stick if necessary.
- Repeat Rolling: Repeat filling and rolling for all slices.
- Whisk the Eggs: In a shallow bowl or pie plate, whisk together eggs, milk, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon until smooth and evenly combined.
- Ensure Even Consistency: Beat thoroughly until no streaks remain for uniform coating.
- Melt the Butter: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt butter until the pan is fully coated.
- Dip the Roll-Ups: Quickly dip each roll-up into the egg mixture to coat all sides evenly, avoiding sogginess.
- Cook Until Golden Brown: Place roll-ups seam-side down in the skillet and cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy, turning gently with a spatula.
- Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if needed to maintain heat and crispness.
- Remove and Drain: Transfer cooked roll-ups to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess butter.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy the roll-ups warm and crispy for best taste and texture.
- Add Toppings: Drizzle with maple syrup, sprinkle powdered sugar, add fresh berries, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or other favorite toppings.
- Get Creative: Experiment with various toppings and make it a fun, customizable meal experience.
- Enjoy: Take a bite of the decadent combination of crispy bread, creamy filling, and sweet toppings.
Notes
- Use bread types like Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast for best texture and flavor.
- Do not over-soak the roll-ups in the egg mixture to prevent sogginess.
- Cook roll-ups over medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even browning.
- If cream cheese is not soft enough, microwave briefly but watch closely.
- Customize the filling sweetness and vanilla level before assembling.
- Optional toppings allow for personalization and additional flavor variations.
- Serve immediately for optimal crispness; leftovers can be reheated in a skillet or oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
