If you love the comforting warmth of cinnamon and the nostalgic charm of French toast, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe. These delightful little bites are the perfect combination of soft, custardy bread infused with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating that caramelizes just right in the oven. They bring all the goodness of classic French toast into a fun, convenient muffin form that’s ideal for breakfast on-the-go or a cozy brunch. Trust me, once you try these muffins, they’ll quickly become a staple in your kitchen and a favorite for family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things beautifully simple with just a handful of pantry staples that come together to create an irresistible flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s keeping the muffins moist, rich, or perfectly spiced.
- Bread, 6 slices, cubed: Use any sturdy bread you love for great structure and a chewy bite that soaks up the custard.
- Eggs, 3: They bind the mixture and provide that lovely, fluffy French toast texture.
- Milk, 1 cup: Adds moisture and richness, making the muffins soft and tender.
- Granulated sugar, 1/4 cup: Sweetness that balances the spices and helps create a golden crust.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon: The star spice that gives these muffins their inviting aroma and signature taste.
- Ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon: A subtle hint of spice that elevates the overall flavor without overpowering.
- Melted butter, 1/4 cup plus extra: Adds richness and helps the muffins bake up with a golden, buttery finish.
- Additional cinnamon sugar for sprinkling: This final touch is what makes the crust sparkle with sweet spice.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). This steady, moderate heat lets the muffins cook through while developing a beautiful golden color. Grease your muffin tin or line it if you like, to ensure the muffins don’t stick and come out perfectly shaped.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mixture is your custard that will soak the bread cubes, so make sure the sugar is mostly dissolved and the spices evenly mixed for consistent flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Coat the Bread Cubes
Add your cubed bread to the custard and gently toss until every piece is thoroughly coated. The bread needs time to absorb the liquid, so be gentle but thorough to avoid mushiness while ensuring rich flavor.
Step 4: Add Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the bread mixture and toss again. This extra fat enhances moisture and gives the muffins a lovely richness that makes each bite irresistible.
Step 5: Bake the Muffins
Spoon the soaked bread cubes evenly into the prepared muffin tin. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the tops to turn golden brown and slightly crisp while the inside remains tender and custardy.
Step 6: Finish with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
As soon as they come out of the oven, brush the tops with a little more melted butter and sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar. This adds a crave-worthy crunchy, sweet topping that complements the soft interior perfectly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins warm for the best experience. The smell alone will have everyone at the table eager to dig in!
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up these muffins with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream. Freshly sliced berries or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add texture and a pop of color that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
Side Dishes
Pair these muffins with crispy bacon, sausage links, or fresh fruit salad for a balanced and satisfying meal. A side of scrambled eggs or yogurt can round out the meal, making it perfect for leisurely weekend brunches or quick weekday breakfasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe in a cute basket lined with a colorful napkin for a festive touch. Or, create a muffin board with various toppings and spreads so everyone can customize their own. They also make fantastic grab-and-go snacks for busy mornings or lunchboxes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed prevents drying out while preserving their moist, flavorful goodness.
Freezing
These muffins freeze wonderfully. Just let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, making them a fantastic make-ahead option for busy mornings.
Reheating
To reheat, pop a frozen or refrigerated muffin in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or rewarm them in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes until heated through. Brushing a little melted butter before reheating helps keep them moist and gives that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast works best, feel free to experiment with whatever you have. Just avoid very thin or delicate bread as it may become too soggy.
Can I make these muffins vegan?
Yes, with some substitutions! Use plant-based milk, a flax or chia egg, and vegan butter. The texture changes slightly, but the cinnamon sugar magic still shines through.
How long do these muffins stay fresh?
Freshly baked, they’re best enjoyed the same day. However, storing them properly allows for up to 3 days in the fridge without losing their charm.
Is it possible to add mix-ins?
Definitely! Blueberries, chopped nuts, or mini chocolate chips all make great additions. Just fold them into the bread mixture before baking for a fun twist.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
You can! Just be sure to use enough muffin tins to avoid overcrowding, and you may need to add a few extra minutes to baking time. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe is like bringing a little bit of warmth and comfort into your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a special breakfast, these muffins are sure to make mornings brighter. So go ahead, mix up a batch and share the cozy joy—they’re just waiting to become your new favorite indulgence.
Print
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional French toast, transforming it into easy-to-make, bite-sized muffins. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch, these muffins blend soft, egg-soaked bread with warm spices and a buttery cinnamon sugar topping for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
French Toast Muffins
- 6 slices bread, cubed
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Additional melted butter for brushing
- Additional cinnamon sugar for sprinkling (mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Spices: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until fully combined and smooth.
- Coat Bread Cubes: Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture. Toss gently to ensure all pieces are evenly coated with the custard-like mixture, allowing the bread to soak up the flavors.
- Add Melted Butter: Drizzle the 1/4 cup of melted butter over the coated bread and toss again carefully to distribute the butter throughout the mixture.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the bread mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each about to the top.
- Bake the Muffins: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown on top and set in the middle.
- Brush with Butter and Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the muffins from the oven and immediately brush the tops with additional melted butter. Then sprinkle a cinnamon sugar mixture over the top for a sweet and crunchy finish.
- Serve Warm: Allow the muffins to cool slightly, then serve warm. Enjoy these delicious cinnamon sugar French toast muffins as a comforting breakfast or snack.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best absorption and texture.
- For a healthier option, whole wheat or multigrain bread can be substituted.
- Adjust cinnamon and sugar amounts according to your sweetness preference.
- These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Reheat muffins in the oven or toaster oven to maintain crispness.
