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.