If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the cozy comfort of French toast in a perfectly portable, bite-sized form, then this French Toast Muffins Recipe was made just for you. Imagine all the rich, custardy goodness of traditional French toast, but baked into delightful muffins that are golden on the outside and tender inside. Whether it’s for a quick weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend brunch, these muffins combine the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla with the buttery softness of brioche, making every bite an irresistible treat. I can’t wait to share how simple it is to whip up these crowd-pleasing delights that will brighten your mornings in the most delicious way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of straightforward, carefully chosen ingredients is key to making these French Toast Muffins utterly irresistible. Each one plays an important role in contributing to the delicate custard texture, aromatic spices, and that perfect golden hue we all crave.

2 cups cubed day-old brioche or challah bread: Stale bread soaks up custard beautifully, providing a tender crumb.
3 large eggs: These act as the custard base, binding and enriching the muffins.
1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture for a luscious interior.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just the right touch to balance the spices and enrich flavor.
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter: Infuses a rich, buttery note and tender crumb.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to every bite.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that perfumes the muffins with cozy sweetness.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds gentle warmth and complexity.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Nonstick cooking spray or butter for greasing: Ensures easy muffin release and perfectly browned bottoms.
Optional topping of powdered sugar or maple syrup: For serving, these add a finishing touch of sweetness and flair.

How to Make French Toast Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 12-cup muffin pan thoroughly with nonstick cooking spray or butter. Then, evenly divide your cubed day-old brioche or challah bread among the muffin cups, pressing the cubes down just enough to fill each cavity solidly. This step gives you that sturdy base so the buttery custard can soak in and work its magic.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. This custard is where the warm holiday-like aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg come alive, creating the signature French toast flavor that makes this recipe so special.

Step 3: Pour Custard Over Bread and Soak

Carefully pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in each muffin cup, ensuring every bite gets good coverage. Let the muffins sit for 5 minutes. This resting time is crucial—it allows the stale bread to absorb the custard, making each muffin wonderfully moist without being soggy.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop your muffin pan into the preheated oven and bake for 22 to 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the muffins have puffed up nicely, feel set in the center, and boast a lightly golden top. Once out of the oven, give them a moment to cool slightly, so they hold their shape and texture when you serve them.

How to Serve French Toast Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

These muffins beg for a simple yet elegant finishing touch. A generous dusting of powdered sugar turns them into a picture-perfect breakfast treat, while a drizzle of warm maple syrup adds a sticky sweetness that complements their cinnamon-spiced core beautifully. For an extra pop, a sprinkle of chopped nuts or fresh berries can elevate your presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Because French Toast Muffins are so rich and flavorful on their own, they pair wonderfully with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a tangy yogurt parfait. Crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausage provide a salty balance, making your brunch plate a well-rounded feast. Whip up a fresh green salad if you’re serving them as a brunch centerpiece.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these muffins in a rustic basket lined with a pretty cloth napkin for a charming brunch setup. Arrange them on a tiered cake stand alongside mini jams or flavored butters for a festive gathering. If you’re getting creative, add mini chocolate chips, blueberries, or chopped nuts to the batter before baking to tailor this classic French Toast Muffins Recipe to your personal tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their soft, custardy texture. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.

Freezing

French Toast Muffins freeze beautifully. Place cooled muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy the comfort of these muffins anytime with minimal effort.

Reheating

To bring your muffins back to life, microwave them for about 20-30 seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F for 10 minutes until warmed through. Adding a quick drizzle of syrup after reheating will restore that freshly made warmth and flavor you love.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While brioche or challah bread is ideal for its softness and richness, you can use other day-old breads like French bread or even sourdough for a different texture. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale so it soaks up the custard well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with your favorite plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free butter alternative as well, and you’ll still get delicious French Toast Muffins with a slightly different, yet delightful, flavor profile.

Is it possible to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or fruit?

Definitely! Mini chocolate chips, blueberries, or finely chopped nuts added to the bread cubes before soaking can add a fun twist and extra bursts of flavor. Just keep the quantities moderate so the muffins still hold together nicely.

How long can I let the bread soak in the custard before baking?

The recipe suggests a 5-minute soak for perfect absorption. You can let it sit a bit longer if you want extra custardy muffins, but avoid soaking too long or the bread might become mushy and difficult to handle.

Can I prepare these muffins the night before and bake in the morning?

Yes! After pouring the custard over the bread in the muffin pan, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. Bake straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time, for a hassle-free morning treat.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, once you try this French Toast Muffins Recipe, it’s hard not to fall in love with the ease and delightful flavors packed into one simple muffin tin. It’s a hassle-free way to bring that nostalgic French toast magic into your kitchen, perfect for busy mornings or relaxed weekend brunches. I genuinely hope you enjoy making and sharing these warm, comforting bites as much as I do—they truly transform breakfast into a moment of cozy happiness.

French Toast Muffins Recipe