If you’re on the hunt for a cozy breakfast treat that’s bursting with warm, comforting flavors, then the Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Imagine all the indulgence of cinnamon-sprinkled French toast, perfectly portioned into convenient, golden-baked muffins that are crispy on the edges and tender inside. This recipe is simple to throw together yet impressively delicious, bringing that classic brunch goodness into a handheld delight that feels both nostalgic and exciting. Trust me, once you make these muffins, they’ll become a breakfast staple in your home.

Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the straightforward list fool you—each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and moistness in these muffins. From the bread that forms the chewy base to the cinnamon and vanilla that infuse warmth, everything works harmoniously to make these muffins irresistible.

6 slices thick-cut bread (preferably day-old): Using day-old bread ensures the cubes soak up just the right amount of custard without becoming too mushy.
4 large eggs: Eggs act as the binding agent and add richness to the custard mixture.
1 cup whole milk: Provides creaminess and moisture to keep the muffins soft and tender.
¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard and helps caramelize the muffins’ edges as they bake.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives these muffins their signature warm, fragrant aroma.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
¼ cup melted butter: Poured over the muffins before baking, it gives them a rich, golden crust.
¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping): Works with cinnamon to create that irresistible crunchy topping.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Sprinkled on top to intensify the cinnamon sugar goodness.
2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing): Brushed on warm muffins to add a shiny finish and extra buttery flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 12-cup muffin tin to ensure the muffins don’t stick. This step is crucial because it sets the stage for those lovely golden bottoms and easy removal later on.

Step 2: Cube the Bread

Take your thick-cut, day-old bread and cut it into small, bite-sized cubes. The size matters here because you want each piece to soak up the custard mixture evenly without falling apart.

Step 3: Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. This custard is the heart of your muffins, packing them with flavor and moisture.

Step 4: Soak the Bread Cubes

Gently stir the bread cubes into the custard mixture, making sure each cube is coated. Allow the bread to soak for about 5 minutes so it absorbs all that flavorful custard goodness, which creates that irresistibly soft interior.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

Divide the soaked bread cubes evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down slightly to pack them in. This helps the muffins hold together well while baking.

Step 6: Drizzle Butter Over Muffins

Pour the ¼ cup of melted butter evenly over the tops of the muffins, which will give them a golden, slightly crispy exterior as they bake.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the muffins are set and beautifully golden on top. This baking process molds the custard-soaked bread into a tender yet slightly crispy delight.

Step 8: Finish with Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While the muffins are still warm, brush them with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Then, sprinkle a mixture of ¼ cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon on top for that addictive cinnamon sugar crunch that brings everything together.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

A perfectly simple garnish for these muffins is a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream also complement the cinnamon sugar flavors beautifully, adding a burst of freshness or creamy indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe with a side of crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage for a balanced breakfast. Fresh fruit salad or yogurt can bring a bright, tangy contrast that keeps things refreshing and wholesome.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun brunch twist, serve these muffins stacked on a pretty platter with small bowls of flavored syrups and fresh fruit nearby. You can even turn them into mini dessert bites by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted nuts for an irresistible treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, place leftover muffins in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy these delightful morsels even after a busy morning.

Freezing

Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe is freezer-friendly! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months, so you always have a quick breakfast option ready when you need it.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these muffins is in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 325°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method preserves the crunchy topping while warming the soft inside perfectly. Microwaving works too, but the exterior might not stay as crisp.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While thick-cut day-old bread works best, brioche or challah adds extra richness and a beautiful texture. Just make sure your bread is sturdy enough to hold the custard without becoming soggy.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the whole milk with almond milk or oat milk and use dairy-free butter alternatives. The flavor may be slightly different, but the muffins will still be delicious.

How long can I soak the bread cubes?

About 5 minutes is ideal to soak the bread without it turning too mushy. If you soak it too long, the muffins could become dense instead of tender and fluffy.

Are these muffins suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Their portion size and make-ahead potential make them perfect for meal prep. Just store them properly and reheat before serving.

Can I add other spices or flavors?

Yes! Feel free to mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a different spice profile, or toss in some raisins or chopped nuts into the batter before baking for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try the Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe as I am to share it with you. It’s the perfect blend of cozy flavors and easy preparation that can brighten any morning. Whether for a weekend brunch or a special treat during the week, these muffins will quickly become a cherished favorite. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and enjoy every delightful bite of this classic made new!