Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: A Decadent Breakfast Treat Made Easy

Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day—and rightly so. It fuels your body, kickstarts your metabolism, and sets the tone for everything that follows. But let’s be honest: some mornings call for a little more indulgence than a simple bowl of cereal or a plain piece of toast. On those days, you want a breakfast that feels like a celebration, something that blends comfort, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia.

Enter the Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: bite-sized morsels of pure breakfast magic. These delicious treats combine the gooey, cinnamon-swirled sweetness of classic cinnamon rolls with the rich, custardy goodness of French toast—only in a playful, crispy, perfectly portioned form. Thanks to the air fryer, they come together faster, cleaner, and with less fuss than traditional oven-baked or stovetop versions.

Imagine golden, crispy edges wrapped around a tender, soft interior bursting with cinnamon sugar swirls, all perfectly cooked to a light fluffiness inside. Each bite delivers that iconic cinnamon roll flavor, but with an irresistible French toast twist—a fusion that’s as delightful for kids as it is for adults who appreciate a bit of breakfast decadence.

Why Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionized home cooking by combining the convenience of quick, hands-off cooking with the magic of crisp textures and even browning—without the mess or long wait times of deep frying or oven baking. For these cinnamon roll French toast bites, the air fryer’s rapid hot air circulation crisps the exterior beautifully while keeping the inside soft and tender, creating a texture contrast that’s simply irresistible.

Unlike pan-frying French toast pieces, which requires managing oil temperature and constant flipping, or baking cinnamon rolls that demand longer proofing and baking times, the air fryer streamlines the process. This means less time in the kitchen, less cleanup, and more time enjoying these delicious bites.

The Perfect Combination: Cinnamon Rolls + French Toast

The idea behind these bites is deceptively simple but brilliant in execution: take soft cinnamon roll dough, slice it into small chunks, dip those chunks in a creamy egg custard mixture, and air fry them to perfection. The result is a playful hybrid—a breakfast bite that tastes like French toast but carries the unmistakable warmth and sweetness of cinnamon rolls.

These bites offer the best of both worlds:

• Cinnamon Roll Flavor: Swirls of cinnamon sugar, a hint of vanilla, and a buttery richness that’s unmistakable.

• French Toast Texture: A delicate custard soak that gives the dough a melt-in-your-mouth softness on the inside.

• Crispy Outside: Thanks to the air fryer, each bite develops a lightly crisp, golden crust that adds a perfect contrast.

Who Will Love This Recipe?

• Busy families: A quick, crowd-pleasing breakfast or snack that kids can eat with their hands.

• Brunch hosts: An impressive yet easy addition to a weekend brunch spread.

• Comfort food lovers: Those who crave warm, cinnamon-spiced treats without the hassle of traditional baking.

• Air fryer enthusiasts: Home cooks who want to maximize their air fryer’s potential with innovative recipes.

• Anytime snackers: Because who says cinnamon rolls and French toast are only for breakfast?

Beyond Breakfast: More Ways to Enjoy These Bites

While these cinnamon roll French toast bites shine brightest on a breakfast or brunch table, their appeal goes well beyond morning hours. They make for a fantastic dessert option—especially when served with ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, casual parties, or an indulgent afternoon treat alongside coffee or hot cocoa.

Their portable, bite-sized nature means they’re also fantastic for lunchboxes, picnics, and potlucks. No forks or knives required—just grab a handful and enjoy.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites: Detailed Instructions

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 package (8 to 12 oz) refrigerated cinnamon rolls with icing (classic, jumbo, or mini all work)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/2 cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra cinnamon flavor)

• Pinch of salt

• Cooking spray or a small amount of melted butter (for air fryer basket)

Equipment Needed:

• Air fryer (any size, but 3-6 quart models work best)

• Medium mixing bowl

• Whisk or fork

• Sharp knife

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Tongs or a slotted spoon

• Serving dish or plate

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls

1. Open your cinnamon roll package.
   Remove the rolls from the canister or packaging and place them on a cutting board.

2. Cut each cinnamon roll into bite-sized pieces.
   Depending on the size of the rolls, cut each into 6 to 8 equal chunks. These smaller pieces will ensure quick, even cooking and create the perfect “bite.”

Tip: Try to keep pieces roughly the same size for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the French Toast Custard Dip

1. In a medium mixing bowl, crack the eggs.

2. Add the milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.

3. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Why? This custard soak will give your cinnamon roll bites that signature French toast softness and flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Air Fryer

• Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

• Let it preheat for about 3-5 minutes.

• While the air fryer heats, prepare your cinnamon roll bites for dipping.

Step 4: Dip the Cinnamon Roll Bites

1. Working in small batches (to avoid overcrowding), dip the cinnamon roll pieces into the custard mixture.

2. Allow each piece to soak for about 10-15 seconds, flipping halfway to ensure all sides absorb the custard.

3. Lift the piece out and let any excess drip off.

Tip: Don’t soak for too long or the pieces may become soggy and fall apart during cooking.

Step 5: Prepare the Air Fryer Basket

• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush a thin layer of melted butter to prevent sticking.

• If your air fryer basket has a mesh or perforated bottom, be extra cautious to avoid custard dripping and causing smoke.

Step 6: Air Fry the Bites

1. Place the dipped cinnamon roll bites in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
   Important: Don’t overcrowd the basket. Leave space between pieces for air circulation, which ensures even cooking and crispiness.

2. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the bites halfway through the cooking time (around the 4-5 minute mark).

3. Check for doneness:

   • The bites should be golden brown on the outside.

   • The centers should be cooked through and tender.

   • If needed, add 1-2 minutes of cooking time, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 7: Remove and Cool Slightly

• Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bites to a plate or cooling rack.

• Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps the bites firm up slightly while remaining soft inside.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

1. Warm the icing that came with the cinnamon rolls slightly if it has thickened in the fridge.

2. Drizzle the icing over the French toast bites generously.

3. Optionally, sprinkle with powdered sugar, chopped nuts, or a pinch of cinnamon for extra flair.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with fresh fruit like berries or banana slices.

• Pair with a side of maple syrup or honey for dipping.

• Accompany with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa for a cozy breakfast or snack.

Additional Tips for Perfect Bites

• Batch Cooking: If making a large batch, cook in multiple rounds to avoid overcrowding and uneven cooking.

• Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a warm spice twist. Or swap vanilla for almond extract for a different aroma.

• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based milk and a flaxseed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for dipping.