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This decadent peanut butter cup French toast roll recipe transforms ordinary breakfast into an extraordinary treat that will make everyone rush to the table. The combination of warm, gooey peanut butter cups wrapped in cinnamon-sugar coated bread creates an irresistible morning indulgence that feels like having dessert for breakfast.
I started making these rolls when my nephew visited and was bored with our traditional breakfast options. Now they've become his expected treat whenever he stays over, and honestly, I look forward to them just as much as he does.
Ingredients
- Soft white sandwich bread: The pillowy texture and mild flavor make the perfect canvas for the rich filling. Look for fresh bread without many preservatives for best results.
- Mini peanut butter cups: These create pockets of chocolate peanut butter heaven inside each roll. Choose quality cups with real cocoa butter for optimal melting.
- Peanut butter: Adds creamy texture and intensifies the peanut flavor. Creamy works better than crunchy for this recipe as it spreads more easily.
- Large eggs: Create the custardy coating that transforms regular bread into French toast. Room temperature eggs blend better with milk.
- Milk: Thins the egg mixture for proper bread coating. Whole milk creates the richest result but any variety works.
- Sugar and cinnamon: Creates the signature sweet coating that caramelizes during cooking. Use freshly ground cinnamon for the most aromatic experience.
- Butter: Provides that golden crispy exterior and rich flavor. Salted butter creates a perfect sweet salty balance.
- Caramel sauce: Optional but highly recommended for an extra layer of indulgence. Look for thick caramel that will create attractive drizzles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
- Remove crusts from each slice and use a rolling pin to flatten until thin and pliable but not torn. Apply gentle pressure working from center outward to maintain even thickness across each slice.
- Create the Rolls:
- Spread a thin layer of peanut butter over each flattened slice ensuring it reaches all edges. Place one mini peanut butter cup at the edge and roll tightly like a cigar making sure to tuck in the sides as you go to prevent filling from escaping during cooking.
- Prepare Dipping Stations:
- Whisk eggs and milk together until completely combined in one shallow bowl. The mixture should be homogeneous with no streaks of egg white visible. In a separate bowl combine sugar and cinnamon stirring well to distribute the spices evenly throughout the sugar.
- Cook the Rolls:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add a small pat of butter allowing it to melt completely and coat the pan. Quickly dip each roll in egg mixture ensuring all sides are coated but not soggy. Place seam side down in the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side rotating to achieve even golden color all around.
- Finish with Cinnamon Sugar:
- Immediately after removing from the pan roll each hot French toast roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture. The residual heat helps the sugar adhere creating a delightful crispy sweet coating that perfectly complements the rich filling.
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The first time I made these my kitchen filled with the intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and chocolate. My absolute favorite part is cutting into a perfectly cooked roll and watching the melted peanut butter cup slowly ooze out creating what I call the "money shot" of breakfast foods.
Make Ahead and Storage
These French toast rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat simply place them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes or in an air fryer for 2 minutes until crisp and warm throughout. The microwave works in a pinch but will soften the exterior crispiness.
Creative Variations
While the peanut butter cup version is utterly delicious this recipe serves as a perfect template for endless creative variations. Try Nutella with sliced strawberries for a berry chocolate combination or use cookie butter with a sprinkle of crushed speculoos cookies. For adults consider cream cheese with a spoonful of jam or even a savory version with herb cream cheese and thinly sliced ham.
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Serving Suggestions
Elevate your breakfast presentation by dusting the plate with a little extra cinnamon sugar before placing the rolls. Add fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness. For an extra special touch warm some maple syrup with a splash of bourbon for adults or create a simple chocolate sauce by melting chocolate chips with a little cream for drizzling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white bread?
Yes! Whole wheat bread works well and adds a slightly nutty flavor and extra fiber to the rolls.
- → What can I use instead of peanut butter?
Nutella, cookie butter, or any favorite chocolate spread make excellent substitutions for peanut butter.
- → How do I ensure the rolls stay crispy?
Cook the rolls over medium heat and avoid soaking them too long in the egg mixture. Serve them immediately for the best texture!
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they freeze beautifully! Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven until crisp before serving.
- → What toppings go well with these rolls?
Drizzle caramel sauce, melted peanut butter, or even powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch.