Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These muffins combine the comfort of French toast with the convenience of muffins, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings. They’re perfectly moist, thanks to the custard-soaked bread, and the cinnamon sugar topping adds a delicious crunch. These muffins are versatile and can easily be made your own with a variety of variations like maple syrup drizzle, cream cheese filling, or chocolate chips.
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
- Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Soak the Bread: Add the bread cubes to the custard, stirring gently to ensure the bread is soaked. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the soaked bread mixture evenly into the muffin cups, pressing down lightly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Drizzle melted butter over the muffins and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the muffins cool slightly in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12 muffins
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the muffins before serving for extra sweetness.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Add a small dollop of sweetened cream cheese in the center of each muffin before baking.
- Fresh Fruit: Add blueberries or diced apples to the bread mixture for a burst of flavor.
- Streusel Topping: Top with a buttery streusel for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Version: Stir mini chocolate chips into the mixture for a chocolatey twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to make these muffins suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
- French Toast Casserole: Transform the recipe into a casserole by using a 9×13-inch baking dish instead of a muffin tin.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their freshness.
FAQs
How do I make these muffins without eggs?
You can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) or use an egg replacer suitable for baking.
Can I use regular bread instead of day-old bread?
Day-old bread is best for soaking, as it absorbs the custard mixture better. However, you can use fresh bread, though it may not be as moist.
Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes, you can freeze the muffins for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, wrap them individually, and store in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to eat.
Can I add other spices to the custard?
Feel free to experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom to give the custard a different flavor profile.
How can I make the muffins sweeter?
If you like a sweeter muffin, increase the amount of sugar in the custard mixture or add a bit more cinnamon sugar topping before baking.
What kind of bread is best for these muffins?
Thick, sturdy bread like French bread or brioche works best. Avoid overly soft bread as it may fall apart when soaked.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake the muffins the next morning for a quick breakfast.
What should I serve with these muffins?
These muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast.
How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
The muffins should be golden brown on top and firm when you gently press them. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I use a mini muffin tin for this recipe?
Yes, using a mini muffin tin will reduce the baking time. Check them after 12-15 minutes.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are the perfect combination of sweet, comforting, and convenient. Whether you’re looking for an easy breakfast or a delightful treat to share, these muffins are sure to satisfy. With endless variations, they can be customized to suit any taste or dietary preference. Try them out today and enjoy the delicious twist on a breakfast classic!
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins combine the comforting taste of French toast with the convenience of a muffin. With custard-soaked bread, a sweet cinnamon sugar topping, and a soft, fluffy texture, these muffins are the perfect addition to your breakfast or as a sweet treat. Customize them with various add-ins like cream cheese filling, chocolate chips, or fresh fruit for extra flavor. A delicious twist on a breakfast favorite that is both easy to make and satisfying!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
- Make the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Soak the Bread: Add the bread cubes to the custard, stirring gently to ensure the bread is soaked. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the soaked bread mixture evenly into the muffin cups, pressing down lightly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Drizzle melted butter over the muffins and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the muffins cool slightly in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm, optionally with maple syrup.
Notes
- Variations:
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a drizzle of warm maple syrup over the muffins for extra sweetness.
- Cream Cheese Filling: Add a dollop of sweetened cream cheese in the center of each muffin before baking.
- Fresh Fruit: Add blueberries or diced apples to the bread mixture for added flavor.
- Streusel Topping: Top with a buttery streusel for extra crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Version: Stir mini chocolate chips into the mixture for a chocolate twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version.
- French Toast Casserole: Make this into a casserole by using a 9×13-inch baking dish instead of a muffin tin.
- Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. To reheat, microwave for 15-20 seconds or bake at 350°F for 5 minutes
