French Toast Roll Ups are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Imagine golden, crispy bites filled with a sweet cream cheese mixture and fresh strawberries, all dipped in a rich custard and cooked to perfection. These roll-ups are perfect for brunch, a special breakfast, or even a sweet snack. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, you’ll find that this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite. Let’s dive into the details of making these scrumptious treats!

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets French Toast Roll Ups apart is their fun and playful presentation. Not only do they offer the classic flavor of French toast, but they also provide a creamy filling that takes each bite to the next level. The combination of cream cheese and fresh strawberries adds a fresh and fruity note, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to customize with your favorite fillings, whether you prefer chocolate, peanut butter, or other fruits. This recipe transforms a simple breakfast into a delightful experience that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredient Rundown

12 slices white sandwich bread: The base of our roll-ups, soft and fluffy, ideal for rolling.
2 large eggs: Essential for creating the custard mixture that coats the roll-ups.
½ cup half-and-half: Adds richness to the custard; you can substitute with whole milk if desired.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances the sweetness and adds a comforting spice.
1 cup granulated sugar: Used for sweetness in both the custard and the cream cheese filling.
3 tablespoons salted sweet cream butter: For cooking the roll-ups, giving them a rich flavor and golden color.
8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The star of the filling, creamy and delicious.
4 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling.
5 to 6 ripe strawberries (capped and sliced very thin): Fresh fruit for a burst of flavor; feel free to substitute with bananas or blueberries if you prefer.

Cook’s Kit

Mixing bowls: For preparing the custard and filling.
Whisk: To blend the custard ingredients smoothly.
Rolling pin: To flatten the bread slices for easier rolling.
Skillet or frying pan: For cooking the roll-ups to a golden brown.
Spatula: To gently flip the roll-ups without breaking them.

Mastering French Toast Roll Ups: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Begin by trimming the crusts off each slice of white sandwich bread. Using a rolling pin, lightly flatten each slice. This will make it easier to roll them up later.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with 4 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy. Fold in the sliced strawberries gently to incorporate.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups

Spread about 1-2 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture onto one end of each flattened bread slice. Roll the bread tightly around the filling, starting from the filled end, and secure the edges to prevent the filling from escaping.

Step 4: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and 1 cup of granulated sugar until well combined. This will be the custard that flavors the French toast.

Step 5: Heat the Skillet

Melt 3 tablespoons of salted sweet cream butter in a skillet over medium heat until it’s bubbly and starting to brown.

Step 6: Dip and Cook the Roll Ups

Dip each roll-up into the custard mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. Place them seam side down in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the roll-ups from the skillet and place them on a plate. You can sprinkle them with additional sugar or serve them with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit. Enjoy your delightful French Toast Roll Ups warm!

Better-for-You Options

Whole grain bread: Substitute white sandwich bread with whole grain or whole wheat for added fiber.
Low-fat cream cheese: Use low-fat or Greek yogurt cream cheese to reduce calories and fat.
Natural sweeteners: Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup in the filling for a less processed option.
Fruit fillings: Experiment with different fruits like blueberries or raspberries to increase antioxidants.

Behind the Recipe

The inspiration for French Toast Roll Ups comes from the desire to enjoy a classic breakfast in a fun and interactive way. By combining the beloved flavors of French toast with a creamy filling, this recipe captures the essence of comfort food while allowing for creativity in the kitchen. It’s a great way to use up leftover bread while treating your family to something special. Whether for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, these roll-ups will have everyone asking for more.

Save It for Later

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! French Toast Roll Ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet for a few minutes before serving. You can also prepare the filling and roll them up ahead of time, then cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the roll-ups and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.

What other fillings can I use?

The possibilities are endless! You can use nut butter, chocolate hazelnut spread, or even jam. Just ensure the filling is spreadable and not too runny.

Can I freeze these roll-ups?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked roll-ups. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I know when they are done cooking?

The roll-ups are done when they are golden brown on all sides and feel firm to the touch. A slight crispness on the outside is a good indicator of doneness.

Bring It Home

French Toast Roll Ups are a delicious and fun way to enjoy a classic breakfast. With their creamy filling and sweet strawberry flavor, they’re sure to delight everyone at the breakfast table. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just a regular Sunday morning, these roll-ups are sure to impress. Grab your ingredients, gather your family, and let the cooking fun begin!