Chaos Cinnamon Roll French Toast (Print Version)

French toast fingers filled with cinnamon swirl, topped with sweet glaze—crisp outside, soft inside.

# Components:

→ French Toast Fingers

01 - 8 slices thick-cut brioche or white bread
02 - 3 large eggs
03 - 1 cup whole milk
04 - 1/4 cup heavy cream
05 - 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
06 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
07 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
08 - Pinch of salt
09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for frying

→ Cinnamon Swirl

10 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
11 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
12 - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

→ Cream Cheese Glaze

13 - 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
14 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
15 - 2 tablespoons whole milk
16 - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

# Directions:

01 - In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until thoroughly combined and smooth.
02 - In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon to form a cohesive cinnamon swirl paste.
03 - Trim the crusts from the bread slices and cut each slice into three uniform, thick fingers. Make a shallow lengthwise slit in the center of each bread finger, ensuring not to cut completely through.
04 - Gently spoon or pipe a small amount of the cinnamon swirl paste into the slit of each bread finger.
05 - Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt and coat the cooking surface.
06 - Dip each cinnamon-filled bread finger into the prepared egg mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated. Place the coated fingers onto the hot skillet.
07 - Cook the French toast fingers for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn a deep golden brown and develop a satisfying crisp exterior. Add more butter to the skillet as needed between batches for optimal browning.
08 - In a separate small bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it reaches a smooth consistency. Incorporate the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the glaze is smooth and has a pourable texture.
09 - Arrange the warm French toast fingers on a serving platter and generously drizzle with the prepared cream cheese glaze. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand
  • Combines two breakfast favorites into one irresistible dish
  • Perfect for both everyday breakfasts and special occasions
  • Kid approved while still sophisticated enough for adults
02 -
  • Perfect for meal prep as you can prepare components ahead of time
  • Each serving provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein
  • Impressive enough for guests but simple enough for weekday mornings
  • Can be made into a complete breakfast with fresh fruit and bacon
03 -
  • The key to perfect French toast fingers lies in the details. Use day-old bread for better absorption without falling apart.
  • When making the slit for filling, use a gentle sawing motion rather than pressing down to avoid crushing the bread.
  • And finally, let the French toast rest for about 30 seconds after cooking before adding the glaze—this allows the exterior to set up for the perfect contrast of textures.