Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins transform classic French toast into convenient, portable muffins that capture all the cozy flavors of the beloved breakfast dish. Each bite delivers that perfect combination of warm cinnamon, sweet custard-soaked bread, and a crispy sugar coating that’ll remind you of lazy weekend mornings.

Pure Comfort

There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen as these muffins bake. They’re like a warm hug for your taste buds, combining the nostalgic comfort of traditional French toast with the fun, portable nature of a muffin. The crispy, sugar-coated exterior gives way to a soft, custard-like center that melts in your mouth.

What You Need

Day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed
Whole milk
Large eggs
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon
Pure vanilla extract
Salt
Unsalted butter, melted
For the coating: Granulated sugar mixed with ground cinnamon

Time to Cook

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 22-25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Makes: 12 muffins

Steps to Make It

Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
Add the bread cubes to the mixture and gently fold until each piece is coated. Let stand for 5 minutes.
Drizzle with melted butter and fold again.
Divide the mixture among the muffin cups, pressing down gently.
Bake for 22-25 minutes until golden brown and set.
While still warm, roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Make It Perfect

The key to perfect French toast muffins lies in using slightly stale bread – it absorbs the custard mixture better without becoming mushy. Don’t skip the soaking time, as this ensures even distribution of the custard throughout each muffin.

Mix It Up

Get creative with your mix-ins:

Add diced apples and extra cinnamon for an apple pie version
Incorporate chocolate chips for a decadent twist
Include chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch
Swirl in cream cheese for a rich variation

Perfect Partners

Serve these muffins with:

Pure maple syrup for dipping
Fresh berries on the side
A dollop of whipped cream
Hot coffee or cold milk

Busy Day Hero

These muffins are perfect for busy mornings. Make them ahead, and simply warm them for 15 seconds in the microwave before serving. They’re portable enough to eat on the go and sturdy enough to pack in lunch boxes.

Work Ahead

Prepare the bread cubes the night before and store them in an airtight container. You can also mix the custard ingredients ahead and refrigerate overnight. This makes assembly quick and easy in the morning.

Save Some For Later

These muffins freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Cool completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slightly before serving.

Everyone’s Happy

Kids love the familiar French toast flavor in fun muffin form, while adults appreciate the sophisticated touch of vanilla and cinnamon. They’re perfect for breakfast gatherings, brunch parties, or holiday mornings.

Good For You Too

While these are certainly a treat, using whole milk adds protein and calcium, eggs provide essential nutrients, and cinnamon has antioxidant properties. Choose whole grain bread for added fiber and nutrients.

Easy Clean Up

Line your muffin tin with paper liners for the easiest cleanup. Prepare your cinnamon-sugar mixture in a paper bag for mess-free coating. One bowl for mixing means minimal dishes to wash.

Switch It Up

Transform this recipe throughout the year:

Summer: Add fresh peaches and nutmeg
Fall: Include pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice
Winter: Mix in cranberries and orange zest
Spring: Incorporate lemon zest and blueberries

Simply Perfect

These muffins strike the perfect balance between special and simple. They’re elegant enough for company but easy enough for everyday breakfast, combining the best of French toast and muffins in one perfect package.

FAQs

Can I use regular sandwich bread?
Yes, though brioche or challah provide the best texture.
Why is my bread too soggy?
Make sure to use day-old bread and don’t over-soak.
Can I make mini muffins?
Yes, reduce baking time to 15-18 minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, ingredients scale up perfectly.
Why didn’t my muffins puff up?
Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better rise.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Use almond milk and dairy-free butter as substitutes.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins offer the perfect solution for anyone craving the comfort of French toast in a convenient, portable form. They’re versatile, freezer-friendly, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting brunch or need a special breakfast treat, these muffins deliver all the cozy flavors of traditional French toast with modern convenience.

Sour Cream Blueberry Coffee Cake for a moist and flavorful breakfast option, or try the Best Fluffy Pancake recipe for a classic morning favorite. For a savory twist, don’t miss the creamy goodness of Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Parmesan Cream Sauce. If you enjoy sweet breakfast ideas, the Blueberry Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bake might just become your new go-to! Looking for something unique? The Cinnamon Roll Toast Pies are a must-try. Don’t forget to explore the Cinnamon Sugar Pizza Made with Crescent Rolls for a dessert pizza experience. Lastly, the decadent Cinnamon Roll Honeybun Cheesecake is a heavenly dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth.