Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large slices of thick bread (day-old brioche or challah works best)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
Substitution tip: Gluten-free bread works just as well if you’re avoiding gluten, and almond milk is a great swap for dairy. If cream cheese isn’t your thing, mascarpone or ricotta can add a similar creamy texture with a slight flavor twist.
Instructions
- Cut each slice of bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside. I learned early on that using slightly stale bread helps the bites hold up better and soak up the custard without turning into mush—lesson learned from a too-soggy batch during a rushed school morning.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and cinnamon until fully combined and smooth.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until creamy and spreadable. This little step is like the secret weapon that gives the bites their cinnamon roll vibe.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter, making sure to coat the surface for that golden crust.
- Dip each bread cube into the egg mixture, letting it soak for about 10 seconds to absorb the custard but not fall apart. Then, carefully place the soaked cubes in the skillet. You want to cook these in batches so they have room to get crispy instead of steaming.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and slightly crisp. Flip gently with a spatula—this is where patience pays off, especially with little hands wanting to “help.”
- Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let cool for a minute. Then, use a small spoon or piping bag to dollop or pipe the cream cheese mixture on top of each bite. If you want to get fancy (and I often do, when the kids are occupied), sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or powdered sugar for that bakery touch.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup. Trust me, that syrup drizzle is the magic that ties it all together and has everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites, recipe, cooking, food
