Save
These mouthwatering treats blend traditional French toast flavor with handy muffin form, turning yesterday's bread into something magical for breakfast. The bread soaks up a rich custard mixture and gets finished with a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, capturing everything you love about French toast in a grab-and-go package.
The first time I tried making these, my whole house smelled like warm cinnamon and vanilla. It took me straight back to those lazy weekend mornings with French toast on the table. Now we can enjoy these same comforting flavors any day we want.
Must-Have Ingredients List
- Day-old bread: Works best since it's slightly dry and really soaks up all that custard goodness
- Whole milk and heavy cream: Mix together for super moist, custardy bites
- Fresh eggs: Hold everything together and add a wonderful richness
- Pure vanilla extract: Brings out all the other flavors naturally
- Quality cinnamon: Makes both the custard mixture and topping taste amazing
Simple Preparation Guide
- Bread Cutting:
- Slice bread into small, even chunks for balanced soaking.
- Custard Blending:
- Mix eggs, milk, cream, and flavorings until smooth.
- Proper Absorption:
- Let bread sit in the custard mix for about 10 minutes.
- Muffin Tin Loading:
- Spoon mixture in gently without pushing down too hard.
- Sweet Finishing:
- Dust tops with plenty of cinnamon sugar.
- Perfect Baking:
- Bake until set inside with crispy, sweet crowns.
Save
I learned that filling the muffin tins with a light hand makes them turn out just right - not too packed down but not falling apart. When I first made these for friends at brunch, nobody could believe they were eating French toast that came in a muffin shape.
Tasty Serving Ideas
Make a full breakfast by adding some fresh berries and a spoonful of whipped cream on top. For a bigger spread, serve alongside some crispy bacon strips or breakfast sausage links. If you want them extra sweet, pour some warm maple syrup over them right before you dig in.
Fun Twist Options
Switch things up by mixing in some diced apples or fresh blueberries before baking. Try hiding a bit of cream cheese in the middle for a surprise center, or add a crunchy streusel topping. Need a gluten-free version? Just swap in your favorite gluten-free bread and enjoy all the same yummy flavors.
Keeping Them Fresh
These muffins stay good in a sealed container in your fridge for about three days. Want to save them longer? Pop them in the freezer for up to two months. When you're ready to eat them, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes to get back that fresh-baked texture and crispy top.
I've come to rely on these cinnamon sugar French toast muffins as a breakfast staple in my home. They show how taking a classic dish and giving it a new twist can create something even more practical. They're perfect for special weekend gatherings or just grabbing as you head out the door on busy mornings.
Save
Recipe FAQs
- → Which bread should I use?
- Go for stale options like brioche, challah, or French bread. Soft, fresh bread might get mushy.
- → Is this make-ahead friendly?
- Totally! Soak the bread overnight in the custard. Bake fresh in the morning.
- → What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Seal in an airtight container for 2 days. Reheat a bit before digging in.
- → Are these muffins freezer-friendly?
- Yep! Pop them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight and reheat before eating.
- → Any topping ideas?
- Serve with syrup, whipped cream, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar on top.