If you are searching for a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, this Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe will quickly become one of your go-to treats. Combining the rich, custardy flavors of traditional French toast with the convenient, portable charm of muffins, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistibly warm and fragrant morning indulgence. Perfect for brunch gatherings or a cozy weekend breakfast, these muffins capture that perfect balance of cinnamon sweetness and buttery goodness in each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each ingredient plays a vital role, making the muffins tender, flavorful, and perfectly golden. From the creamy eggs and milk creating a luscious custard base, to the cinnamon and sugar adding a sweet spice touch, these simple components come together beautifully to craft this comforting dish.
- 6 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed: Using day-old bread helps absorb the custard without falling apart, and brioche or challah adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients and provide the custardy texture that’s signature to French toast.
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to keep the muffins tender.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus more for topping): Sweetens the custard and creates a lovely caramelized crust when baked.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (plus more for topping): Infuses a warm, comforting spice that pairs perfectly with sugar for that classic flavor combo.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a sweet, aromatic depth.
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing): Brushed on top for that golden sheen and an extra buttery finish.
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting): Adds a pretty, delicate touch before serving if you want a hint of extra sweetness.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and prepare your muffin tin
Begin by setting your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin to ensure the muffins don’t stick and come out easily once baked. Preparation at this stage makes the process smoother and guarantees a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Whisk the custard mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and the lovely vanilla extract until the mixture turns smooth and glossy. This custard is the heart of your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe, providing that luscious, spiced soaking liquid for the bread cubes.
Step 3: Soak the bread cubes
Add the cubed brioche or challah bread to the custard bowl, gently tossing to coat every piece evenly. Let the bread sit for 10 to 15 minutes so it soaks up all that delicious custard, softening while still holding some structure—this step ensures each muffin is moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Fill the muffin cups
Once soaked, divide the mixture evenly among the greased muffin cups, pressing down lightly to pack the bread cubes. This step forms the muffin shape and ensures a cohesive texture that bakes up just right without any gaps.
Step 5: Bake until golden
Pop the muffin tray in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers feel set to the touch. This baking time lets the custard fully cook and develop that perfect French toast flavor and texture inside the muffin form.
Step 6: Brush with butter and cinnamon sugar
Right after removing the muffins from the oven while they’re still warm, brush the tops generously with melted butter. Then, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar on top. This adds a delightful, slightly crispy, and sweet crust that amplifies the cozy spice highlighted throughout the recipe.
Step 7: Optional dusting with powdered sugar
If you want to add a finishing touch for presentation or a hint more sweetness, lightly dust the cooled muffins with powdered sugar before serving. It looks charming and tastes like a little morning magic.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
These muffins shine on their own but can be made even more special with simple garnishes. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness and color that balances the sweet cinnamon flavor. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup elevates the indulgence, making them feel extra celebratory.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe with savory sides like crispy bacon or breakfast sausage creates a delightful contrast that satisfies every craving. For a lighter option, fresh fruit salad or yogurt offers a refreshing balance to the warm, sweet muffins.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch or special occasions, serving these muffins in decorative paper liners or on a tiered cake stand makes a beautiful presentation. You can also create a French toast muffin bar, offering different toppings such as nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit compotes, allowing guests to personalize their own delicious breakfast delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any muffins left over, no worries—they keep well stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This makes them perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks the next day without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
To enjoy the Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container once solid. They can be frozen for up to one month. This is a great way to prepare breakfast ahead of time and have a delicious option ready whenever you want.
Reheating
When reheating, simply warm the muffins in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through to revive that crisp top and soft interior. Alternatively, microwaving for short bursts works well for a speedy treat, though the oven method preserves texture best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Yes! While brioche or challah is recommended for its richness and texture, you can substitute with other sturdy breads like French bread or Texas toast. Just make sure the bread is a day old so it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.
Is it possible to make these muffins dairy-free?
Absolutely. Substitute whole milk with your favorite plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or coconut milk, and replace butter with a dairy-free alternative. The flavor and texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I prepare the mixture the night before?
Yes, you can soak the bread cubes in the custard overnight in the refrigerator. This can even enhance the flavors by allowing more time for the bread to absorb the custard fully, making your muffins extra custardy and tasty.
How do I keep the muffins from getting soggy?
Make sure not to over-soak the bread and bake the muffins until they are fully set. Pressing the mixture firmly into the muffin cups also helps create structure. Additionally, brushing melted butter and sprinkling sugar after baking adds a slight crispy layer that prevents sogginess.
Are these muffins suitable for a brunch party?
Definitely! The Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe is a fantastic, crowd-pleasing option for brunches because they’re easy to serve, portable, and flavorful. Plus, they can be made ahead and reheated right before guests arrive.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe will bring a warm, inviting touch to your breakfast table that’s both comforting and fun. These muffins strike the perfect harmony between traditional French toast flavors and easy-to-enjoy portions that everyone will adore. Don’t hesitate to whip up a batch — your mornings will thank you!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are a delightful twist on classic French toast. Made with day-old brioche or challah bread cubes soaked in a sweet cinnamon custard, then baked to golden perfection in a muffin tin. Perfect for a make-ahead breakfast or a sweet brunch treat, topped with melted butter, cinnamon sugar, and an optional dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Bread
- 6 cups day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed
Custard
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus more for topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (plus more for topping)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Topping
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak Bread Cubes: Add the cubed day-old brioche or challah bread into the custard mixture. Gently toss to coat all pieces evenly. Let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the custard fully.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Divide the soaked bread and custard mixture evenly among the muffin cups. Press down gently to compact the mixture without crushing the bread.
- Bake the Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and set in the center.
- Add Toppings: While still warm, brush the tops of the muffins with melted butter, then sprinkle generously with a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar for extra flavor and crunch.
- Optional Dusting: If desired, dust the muffins with powdered sugar before serving to add a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Using day-old bread ensures better absorption of the custard without the muffins becoming soggy.
- Feel free to substitute brioche or challah with any good-quality soft bread.
- These muffins can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best texture before serving.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
