These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are a sweet treat that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar. They are soft, fluffy, and perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Imagine biting into a muffin that reminds you of your favorite French toast, but in a handy muffin shape! I love to enjoy them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Day-old bread gives the best texture since it’s drier and soaks up the custard perfectly. You can substitute any bread you like, such as brioche, challah, or even whole wheat for a healthier twist!
Eggs: Eggs are crucial for binding the ingredients. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can use flaxseed or chia seed mixed with water as a substitute.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream provide a rich flavor and moist texture. If you prefer, use almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free muffins, keeping the consistency as close as possible.
Granulated Sugar: You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor. Additionally, for a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol.
Cinnamon: Cinnamon is what makes these muffins taste like French toast! Feel free to experiment with pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
How Can You Ensure Your Muffins Are Perfectly Stored and Served?
To keep these muffins delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them! Just wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag.
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. They taste great on their own but are even better with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream!
Remember, letting the bread soak in the egg mixture is key to achieving a great custardy texture. Don’t rush this step; it helps make each bite incredibly soft and flavorful!
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups bread cubes (day-old or lightly toasted white bread works well)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing muffin tin)
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll bake them for 20 to 25 minutes. Overall, you’ll be enjoying these tasty muffins in about 40 to 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter to ensure the muffins release easily when baked.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, the melted butter, and salt. Keep whisking until everything is nicely combined.
3. Soak the Bread:
Now add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, stirring gently to coat them evenly. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the custard goodness!
4. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
While you wait, grab a small bowl and mix the remaining 1/12 cup granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. This will be your delightful cinnamon sugar topping!
5. Fill the Muffin Cups:
Spoon the soaked bread mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each cup about 3/4 of the way full. It’s okay if some of the mixture isn’t perfectly even—homemade is the best kind!
6. Add the Topping:
Now sprinkle each filled muffin cup generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture you made. This will add a deliciously sweet and crunchy layer on top!
7. Bake the Muffins:
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they are puffed up, set in the center, and the topping looks caramelized and slightly crisp.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool a little more. They are best enjoyed warm!
9. Enjoy!
Serve these muffins warm with a drizzle of maple syrup if you like. They are a delicious blend of French toast flavors in a delightful muffin form!
Enjoy these sweet, cinnamon-spiced muffins that capture the essence of French toast in a portable, crumbly treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While day-old white bread works best, you can use brioche, challah, or even whole wheat bread for a healthier option. Just ensure it’s somewhat dry to soak up the custard effectively.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Muffins?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for about 2-3 months!
Can I Make These Muffins Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the batter the night before! Just store the soaked bread mixture in the fridge, covered, and bake them fresh in the morning. This way, you can enjoy warm muffins without any hassle!
How Do I Reheat Leftover Muffins?
To reheat, simply place the muffins in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up. Alternatively, you can heat them in an oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes to maintain that lovely, crispy topping.
