Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls in French Toast Form (Sweet, Gooey & Perfect for Breakfast)
If you love cinnamon rolls and French toast, this Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls in French Toast Form combines the best of both into one irresistible breakfast. Soft cinnamon roll pieces are dipped in a rich vanilla-cinnamon custard, air-fried until golden and slightly crispy, then topped with a sweet cream cheese glaze for the ultimate indulgent treat.
The air fryer gives the cinnamon rolls a lightly crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft, fluffy, and perfectly gooey. The French toast custard adds extra richness and flavor, making every bite taste like a bakery-style breakfast. Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch, holiday breakfast, or a special family treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes using refrigerated cinnamon rolls and a handful of simple ingredients. Serve it with fresh berries, maple syrup, or powdered sugar for a breakfast that’s both easy and unforgettable.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combines cinnamon rolls and French toast in one recipe.
Crispy outside with a soft, gooey center.
Ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Made easily in the air fryer.
Family-friendly and kid-approved.
Uses simple ingredients.
Great for holidays and weekend mornings.
Delicious with maple syrup or fresh fruit.
Easy enough for beginner cooks.
Ingredients
For the French Toast Cinnamon Rolls
1 can (8-count) refrigerated cinnamon rolls (icing reserved)
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon melted butter
Cream Cheese Glaze
Reserved icing from the cinnamon roll package
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon milk
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
Powdered sugar
Fresh strawberries
Blueberries
Banana slices
Chopped pecans
Maple syrup
Whipped cream
Equipment Needed
Air fryer
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Tongs
Silicone brush
Serving plate
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Rolls
Open the can of cinnamon rolls and set the icing aside for later.
Cut each cinnamon roll into quarters to create bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Make the French Toast Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Eggs
Whole milk
Vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon
Nutmeg (if using)
Brown sugar
Melted butter
Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Coat the Cinnamon Rolls
Add the cinnamon roll pieces to the custard mixture.
Gently toss until each piece is evenly coated.
Let them soak for 2–3 minutes, allowing the custard to absorb slightly without becoming soggy.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket or line it with perforated parchment paper.
Step 5: Air Fry
Arrange the coated cinnamon roll pieces in a single layer, leaving a little space between them.
Cook for 6–7 minutes.
Carefully shake the basket or flip the pieces.
Continue cooking for another 6–8 minutes, until the pieces are golden brown, puffed, and cooked through.
If you prefer a crispier texture, cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the cinnamon rolls are cooking, combine:
Reserved icing
Softened cream cheese
Milk
Vanilla extract
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
If needed, microwave for 10 seconds to make the glaze easier to drizzle.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Transfer the warm cinnamon roll French toast bites to a serving plate.
Drizzle generously with the cream cheese glaze.
Top with powdered sugar, fresh berries, chopped pecans, or maple syrup if desired.
Serve immediately while warm.
Pro Tips
Don’t soak the cinnamon roll pieces for too long, or they may become too soft.
Cook in a single layer for even browning.
Use perforated parchment paper for easier cleanup.
Warm the glaze slightly before drizzling for a smooth finish.
Serve immediately for the best texture.
Add fresh fruit for a bright, refreshing contrast.
Recipe Variations
Apple Cinnamon Version
Add small diced apples to the air fryer during the last 5 minutes of cooking and sprinkle with extra cinnamon.
Chocolate Lover’s Version
Mix chocolate chips into the cinnamon roll pieces before air frying and drizzle with chocolate sauce.
Caramel Pecan French Toast
Top with caramel sauce and toasted pecans for a decadent twist.
Berry French Toast Bake
Add blueberries or raspberries before air frying for bursts of fruity flavor.
Pumpkin Spice Version
Add ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to the custard during the fall season.
What to Serve With
Crispy bacon
Breakfast sausage
Fresh fruit salad
Greek yogurt
Scrambled eggs
Hash browns
Coffee
Hot chocolate
Orange juice
Vanilla latte
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooked cinnamon roll bites for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 3–4 minutes, or until warm and slightly crispy.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 410 kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 49g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 115mg
Sodium: 470mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 24g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the brand of cinnamon rolls and ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade cinnamon rolls?
Yes! Homemade cinnamon rolls work wonderfully. Just bake them slightly before cutting and dipping them in the French toast custard.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the custard and cut the cinnamon rolls ahead of time, but it’s best to coat and air fry them just before serving for the freshest texture.
Can I make this recipe without cream cheese?
Absolutely. Simply drizzle the reserved icing over the warm cinnamon roll bites or dust them with powdered sugar.
Why are my cinnamon roll bites soggy?
They may have soaked in the custard for too long or been overcrowded in the air fryer. A short soak and cooking in a single layer will help them stay light and fluffy.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls in French Toast Form are the ultimate breakfast mashup, combining the soft, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls with the rich, custardy flavor of French toast. They’re quick to prepare, incredibly comforting, and perfect for lazy weekends, holiday mornings, or anytime you’re craving a sweet breakfast treat.
With their crispy golden edges, fluffy centers, and luscious cream cheese glaze, these cinnamon roll French toast bites are sure to become a family favorite. Pair them with fresh fruit and a hot cup of coffee for a breakfast that’s both indulgent and unforgettable.