Crispy Sweet Fried Bread with Vanilla Cream – Easy Cinnamon Sugar Treat

Sweet Fried Bread is the ultimate comfort treat—soft white bread filled with vanilla cream, dipped in a rich egg-milk bath, and fried to golden perfection. Finished with a generous coating of sugar and cinnamon, it's a nostalgic delight ideal for brunch, dessert, or an indulgent snack. Whether you're making it for family, kids, or just for yourself, this easy and delicious recipe will bring joy to any table.

What Is Sweet Fried Bread?

Sweet Fried Bread, sometimes called poor man's French toast or stuffed cinnamon toast, is a beloved homemade dessert in many cultures. It's similar to a filled version of French toast, but instead of syrup, it's rolled in cinnamon sugar. This treat is especially popular during holidays or as a quick, satisfying way to use up bread before it goes stale. Its simplicity and deliciousness have made it a timeless favorite across generations.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Crispy outside, creamy inside: The contrast between the crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust and smooth vanilla filling is irresistible.
• Quick and budget-friendly: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up this decadent dessert in no time.
• Perfect for all ages: Kids adore the sweetness, and adults love the comfort-food nostalgia.
• Flexible filling: You can swap the vanilla pudding for Nutella, jam, or cream cheese for a different twist.

Cooking Tips

1. Use soft, fresh white bread for easy sealing and best texture.
2. Don’t overfill the bread—just a thin layer of cream keeps it from bursting during frying.
3. Seal edges well by gently pressing them before dipping in the egg mixture.
4. Fry on medium heat to get an even golden crust without burning.
5. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture before it softens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Store-Bought Vanilla Pudding?

Yes! Store-bought vanilla pudding or custard works great and saves time. Just ensure it’s thick enough to avoid leaking during frying.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

You can prep them (fill and dip) in advance, but for best texture, fry them just before serving. They’re crispiest when hot and fresh.

What Type of Bread Works Best?

Regular white sandwich bread is ideal. Avoid dense or crusty bread—it won’t seal or fry as well.

Can I Use Other Fillings?

Absolutely. Chocolate spread, jam, lemon curd, or sweetened ricotta are great alternatives.

What Oil is Best for Frying?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower are perfect. Avoid olive oil, which has a low smoke point and strong flavor.

How to Freeze Sweet Fried Bread

To freeze, allow the sweet fried bread to cool, then layer between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F until hot and slightly crisp, about 10–12 minutes.

How to Store Sweet Fried Bread

Let the fried bread cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Keep them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to regain some crispiness—microwaving will soften the texture.

How To Make Sweet Fried Bread

Spread a layer of vanilla cream or pudding onto one slice of bread. Top with another slice to create a sandwich. Repeat with theremaining slices. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, coating both sides well. Don’t oversoak—just enough to absorb some liquid without falling apart.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, fry the sandwiches for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp.

While still warm, roll each fried sandwich in granulated sugar, then in ground cinnamon until evenly coated. Best served immediately for maximum crunch and flavor.