Cinnamon French Toast Muffins

Introduction

Cinnamon French Toast Muffins combine the best of two breakfast favorites: the classic flavor of French toast and the convenience of muffins. These moist, fluffy muffins are infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, then topped with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating.

I first made these muffins when I was looking for a fun twist on French toast, and they quickly became a family favorite. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla fills the kitchen, making them perfect for cozy mornings or brunch gatherings. They’re easy to make and require minimal ingredients, so you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re enjoying them on a busy weekday morning or serving them at a weekend brunch, these muffins are a sweet treat that’s both comforting and delicious. With their rich flavor and tender texture, they’re sure to become a new household favorite.

Perfect for:

• Busy mornings
• Brunch spreads
• Holiday breakfasts
• On-the-go snacks
• Sweet breakfast lovers

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon French Toast Muffins

Here’s why Cinnamon French Toast Muffins will become a staple in your kitchen:

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Rich Cinnamon Flavor: The warm spices in the batter and topping make every bite irresistible.
• Perfect Texture: Soft and fluffy inside with a crisp, sugary topping for the perfect balance.
• Portable: These muffins are an ideal grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
• Customizable: Add-ins like raisins, nuts, or chocolate chips make this recipe versatile and fun.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 12 muffins
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 27g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cinnamon French Toast Muffins:

• 4 cups cubed day-old bread (brioche, challah, or French bread work best)
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient Highlights

• Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better, creating a moist and flavorful muffin.
• Whole Milk and Heavy Cream: The combination adds richness and creaminess to the batter.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices give the muffins their signature flavor.
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: The topping adds a sweet, crunchy finish that mimics the flavor of French toast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cinnamon French Toast Muffins:

Prepare the Muffin Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. Cube the Bread: Cut the bread into small cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Make the Custard Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
4. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and gently toss to coat. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
5. Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the soaked bread mixture evenly among the muffin cups, pressing down slightly to pack the bread.

Bake the Muffins:

6. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the muffins are set.
7. Cool Slightly: Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Add the Cinnamon Topping:

8. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Brush the tops of the warm muffins with melted butter, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

How to Serve Cinnamon French Toast Muffins

Cinnamon French Toast Muffins are versatile and can be served in several ways:

• For Breakfast: Pair with fresh fruit and a dollop of yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
• With Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the muffins for a classic French toast experience.
• As a Snack: Enjoy them plain or with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• For Brunch: Serve alongside savory dishes like quiche or scrambled eggs for a well-rounded brunch spread.

Additional Tips for Cinnamon French Toast Muffins

Here are some tips to ensure your Cinnamon French Toast Muffins turn out perfectly:

• Use Stale Bread: Day-old or slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, giving the muffins a great texture.
• Cut Bread Evenly: Dice the bread into evenly-sized cubes to ensure consistent baking.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon, sugar, and crushed nuts or granola on top for extra texture and flavor.
• Let It Soak: Allow the bread cubes to soak in the egg mixture for at least 10 minutes to ensure they’re fully saturated.
• Use Full-Fat Dairy: Whole milk or heavy cream creates a richer custard and a more decadent muffin.
• Experiment with Bread Types: Brioche, challah, or croissants make for an extra flavorful and tender muffin base.
• Incorporate Mix-ins: Add chopped fruits (like apples or berries), raisins, or chocolate chips to customize your muffins.
• Grease Well: Generously grease the muffin tin or use parchment liners to prevent sticking.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the batter and soak the bread cubes the night before. Store it in the fridge and bake fresh in the morning.
• Serve with Toppings: Drizzle the muffins with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or a cream cheese glaze for a finishing touch.

Recipe Variations for Cinnamon French Toast Muffins

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cinnamon French Toast Muffins:

1. Apple Cinnamon French Toast Muffins: Add diced apples and a pinch of cloves to the batter.
2. Blueberry French Toast Muffins: Mix in fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity twist.
3. Maple Pecan Muffins: Swap granulated sugar for maple syrup in the custard and add chopped pecans.
4. Chocolate Chip Muffins: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
5. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: Add a tablespoon of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the custard mixture.
6. Cranberry Orange Muffins: Mix in dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive variation.
7. Banana Bread Muffins: Add mashed banana to the custard for a banana bread flavor.
8. Savory French Toast Muffins: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, and add cheese, herbs, and cooked bacon or sausage.
9. Caramel Drizzle Muffins: Top the muffins with caramel sauce instead of the cinnamon-sugar topping.
10. Coconut French Toast Muffins: Mix in shredded coconut and top with a sprinkle of toasted coconut.

Freezing and Storage for Cinnamon French Toast Muffins

• Freezing: These muffins freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.
• Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Special Equipment for Cinnamon French Toast Muffins

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cinnamon French Toast Muffins easier:

• Muffin Tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin is perfect for this recipe.
• Whisk: Use a whisk to ensure the custard mixture is smooth and well combined.
• Brush: A pastry brush is helpful for applying the melted butter to the muffin tops.
• Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for the bread and custard mixture.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure precise measurements for the best results.
• Cooling Rack: A wire rack allows the muffins to cool evenly.
• Electric Mixer (Optional) – For easily mixing the batter, though hand mixing works too.
• Sharp Knife or Bench Scraper – To cut the bread into cubes for the muffin mixture.
• Large Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop – For filling the muffin tin with batter.
• Baking Paper or Muffin Liners – To line the muffin tin for easier removal.
• Pastry Brush – For brushing melted butter onto the muffin cups or tops.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cinnamon French Toast Muffins

1. Can I use a different type of bread?
   Yes, any sturdy bread like sourdough, baguette, or sandwich bread will work, but brioche or challah are best for their rich flavor.
2. Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute the milk, cream, and butter with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk, coconut cream, and vegan butter.
3. Can I skip the cinnamon topping?
   Yes, but the topping adds a delightful crunch and flavor that enhances the muffins.
4. Can I prepare the batter in advance?
   Yes, soak the bread in the custard mixture overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in batches if needed.

Print

Conclusion

Cinnamon French Toast Muffins are a delightful combination of sweet, warm flavors and a soft yet crunchy texture. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any breakfast, brunch, or snack. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or reheated on a busy morning, these muffins are a comforting treat that will quickly become a favorite in your home.

This recipe is as simple as it is satisfying, making it ideal for everything from cozy family mornings to casual get-togethers. These muffins deliver the cozy flavors of French toast in a fun, portable muffin form that everyone will love.

I’d love to see how your Cinnamon French Toast Muffins turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!