Our cinnamon roll french toast roll ups is truly the crossover recipe of our dreams. Honestly, not much is better than a classic French toast for Sunday brunch. But between the delightful crispy outside and the creamy, custardy inside – this french toast roll up is impossible to beat.

We think you’re really going to love this air fryer French toast roll-up. It’s a perfect combination of French toast and cinnamon rolls. It is nothing short of delightful!

plate of cinnamon roll french toast with strawberries

History of French toast

An origin story for French toast is that it was created during a war in France when soldiers took stale bread and dipped it in eggs to soften it up, then fried it. However, not all food historians agree with this origin story. Some believe that it was created in the 1700s by Joseph French, hence the name. But that’s not a story supported by the majority, either.

The truth of the history of french toast is still murky, and it stretches back as far as the fifth century AD in the Roman Empire. The first sight of french toast came about when Romans created “Pan Dulcis” by soaking bread in egg or milk and frying it. There is also a theory that this breakfast staple recipe was developed in medieval Europe. In sum, the history of French toast is obscure and littered with fascinating tales and origin stories. Who really knows when it was invented, or by whom — ultimately, it’s a delicious treat that we’re happy to have around today!

a flattened piece of bread topped with a cinnamon sugar mixture

an uncooked cinnamon roll french toast roll up

What equipment do I need for French toast roll ups?

You’ll need a handful of regular kitchen utensils — including a rolling pin, whisk, and bowls and plates — for this recipe, but the big thing is the air fryer.

Air fryers are modified convection ovens that can sit on a countertop and use circulated hot air to cook food using less oil (and less time) than either frying or conventional ovens do! We are obsessed with the texture and crispiness the air fryer gives to these French toast roll-ups, they’re absolutely heavenly and have such a satisfying bite to them.

air fryer with cinnamon roll french toast roll ups

How to top your french toast roll ups

French toast can absolutely be enjoyed without the addition of any toppings. Especially this recipe! But we have quite the sweet tooth, so you know we are going to top this brunch up!

The beauty of french toast is that you don’t have to go overboard on toppings. A simple dusting of powdered sugar, some berries, and maple syrup for dipping and you are golden. We’re of the mind that french toast is simply better with powdered sugar than without it. It is subtle, but powdered sugar enhances the flavors of the french toast, giving a burst of brightness and lightness on the palate.

How to make French toast roll-ups

Flatten bread with a rolling pin. Cut off the crust.
Mix together butter, sugar and pinch of salt.
Spread a thin layer of the butter mixture on the bread.
Sprinkle it with cinnamon and roll it up.
In a shallow plate whisk together eggs, half and half, and vanilla extract. Dip roll up in egg mixture.
Air fry at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 8-10 minutes or until golden.
Garnish with powdered sugar, and serve with a side of maple syrup.