These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are like a cozy hug in muffin form! Soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside, they’re filled with warm cinnamon flavor and a sweet, sugary topping.
Make sure to enjoy them fresh out of the oven. I can’t resist grabbing one right away—who can say no to that sweet, cinnamon goodness? It’s almost like breakfast meets dessert!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Thick White Bread: Using day-old or slightly stale bread works wonders because it absorbs the egg mixture better. If you don’t have white bread, you can also use challah or brioche for a richer flavor, or even gluten-free bread if needed.
Eggs: The eggs are vital for binding the muffins together and giving them a custard-like texture. If you are looking for a vegan option, try using flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water equals 1 egg). You might need to add a bit more milk to the mixture to balance it out.
Whole Milk: While whole milk adds richness, you can substitute it with almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk. Just pick one that fits your taste preference!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is the star flavor here. If you want to switch things up, consider using pumpkin spice or nutmeg for a different twist. You can also increase the cinnamon if you’re a fan of that warm flavor.
Maple Syrup: This is optional for serving but adds a sweet finish. If you’d prefer a sugar-free option, try using sugar-free syrup or honey instead.
How Can You Ensure Your Muffins are Perfectly Cooked?
To avoid undercooked or overcooked muffins, follow these tips while baking:
- Preheating the oven is crucial. This ensures even baking from the start.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready. If there are batter bits, they need more time.
- Cooling time: Let them cool slightly in the pan before removing. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Baking them in individually greased muffin cups promotes even browning and a crisp edge.
By following these tips, your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are sure to be a hit! Enjoy them warm and share with family or friends. They’re so good, you might want to keep them all to yourself!
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 slices of thick white bread (day-old or slightly stale works best)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
- Optional: pure maple syrup for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. You can expect to have delicious, cinnamon-sugar-kissed muffins ready to enjoy in about 35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter. This helps to ensure your muffins come out easily.
2. Cube the Bread:
Take your thick slices of bread and cut them into small cubes, about 1-inch in size. Set these bread cubes aside for later.
3. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until everything is fully combined and smooth.
4. Soak the Bread:
Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, gently stirring until all the cubed bread is fully soaked. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes so the bread can absorb all that tasty custard.
5. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Now, evenly divide the soaked bread mixture into each muffin cup. Be sure to pack the bread mixture down lightly to fill each cup well.
6. Butter the Tops:
Brush the tops and edges of each muffin with the melted butter you set aside. This will help them get that golden, crispy texture as they bake.
7. Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the 1/3 cup of sugar and 1 tbsp of cinnamon. Sprinkle this yummy cinnamon sugar blend generously over the tops of your muffins.
8. Bake to Perfection:
Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be delightfully crispy!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Carefully take them out and enjoy these muffins warm! If you’re feeling indulgent, drizzle some pure maple syrup on top when serving.
Enjoy these soft, sweet, cinnamon-kissed muffins that combine the best flavors of French toast with a convenient muffin form!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While thick white bread works best for soaking up the custard, you can also try using challah, brioche, or even whole-grain bread. Just make sure it’s thick and slightly stale for the best texture.
Can I Make These Muffins Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it. Just give it a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s coming straight from the fridge. Alternatively, you can bake and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, then warm them up before serving.
How to Store Leftover Muffins?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to a month. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave.
Can I Add Mix-Ins to the Muffins?
Definitely! You can customize your muffins by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to the batter before baking. Just make sure to keep the total amount of mix-ins around 1/2 cup so that the batter remains balanced.
