If you’re searching for a snack that’s both delightfully sweet and perfectly crispy, the Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe is going to become your new obsession. These little golden cubes pack all the cozy, comforting flavors of classic French toast but in fun, bite-sized form that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack anytime. Imagine cinnamon sugar crystals melting slightly on a warm, buttery crust with a tender inside—this recipe brings that nostalgic taste with minimal fuss and maximum joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is the secret to turning ordinary bread into these sensational, crunchy bites. Each component plays an essential role, from the eggs that provide richness to the cinnamon and sugar that create that irresistible sweet-spiced crust.
- Slightly stale white bread (4 thick slices): Using bread that’s a bit stale helps maintain structure when soaked and cooked, so the bites don’t fall apart.
- Large eggs (2): Eggs add moisture and bind the bread cubes while enriching the flavor for that classic French toast taste.
- Milk (1/4 cup): This adds creaminess and lightens the egg mixture to coat the bread perfectly.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
- White sugar (1/4 cup): Combined with cinnamon, it forms a beautifully crisp, sweet coating on each bite.
- Cinnamon powder (1/2 tsp): Brings that warm, fragrant spice that defines this dish.
- Butter (3 tbsp, separated): Used for cooking, it browns the French toast bites and adds a rich, buttery finish.
- Maple syrup: The perfect sweet dip to elevate every mouthful.
How to Make Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Bread Cubes
Start by cutting off the edges of the bread slices, then slice each slice into a neat 3×3 grid, giving you 9 cubes per slice. Using slightly stale bread here is key—it soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart, keeping each bite intact and satisfyingly crispy.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, and pinch of salt until you have a smooth, evenly combined mixture. This blend will give your bites that luscious, custardy interior once cooked.
Step 3: Mix Cinnamon Sugar
Stir the white sugar and cinnamon powder together in a shallow bowl until completely blended. This ensures every cube will have an even coating of sweet, spicy magic as soon as it hits the pan.
Step 4: Melt Butter for Cooking
Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Keep a close eye to prevent the butter from browning, as burnt butter can dominate the delicate flavors with bitterness.
Step 5: Coat and Cook the Bread Cubes
Quickly toss half of the bread cubes into the egg mixture, then shake off any excess before adding them to your hot pan. Using a wooden spoon, gently stir and sauté the cubes to brown them evenly on all sides—this should take about 2 to 3 minutes and will give you that gorgeous golden crust.
Step 6: Coat Bites in Cinnamon Sugar
Once cooked, immediately transfer the bread cubes into your cinnamon sugar bowl. Toss gently to coat each cube thoroughly, creating that signature crunchy, sweet exterior we’re after. Then plate them for serving.
Step 7: Repeat for Remaining Cubes
Return to the pan and melt the remaining butter before repeating the process with the second batch of bread cubes. This guarantees every bite has the same perfect texture and flavor.
Step 8: Serve Warm with Maple Syrup
Enjoy these freshly made Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe warm, paired with maple syrup for dipping. The combination of the crisp, buttery crust and the sweet syrup just can’t be beat.
How to Serve Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top for added sparkle and aroma, or add a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream also make wonderful toppings that add color and freshness.
Side Dishes
Pair these bites with fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing contrast. A cup of hot coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice completes this comforting brunch beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these bites in small mason jars layered with yogurt and fruit for a fun breakfast parfait. Another idea is to thread the bites onto skewers for an easy-to-eat party appetizer or brunch platter centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They’ll stay fresh but best enjoyed reheated to restore their crispiness.
Freezing
To freeze, spread the cooled bites on a baking sheet and flash freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month, perfect for a quick grab-and-go sweet treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to regain their crisp exterior. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for this Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe?
Absolutely! While stale white bread works best for texture, you can experiment with brioche, challah, or whole wheat for different flavor profiles and richness.
Is it necessary to remove the crust before cutting the bread?
Removing the crust helps create uniform cubes that cook evenly and prevents tough edges, but if you prefer a heartier bite, you can leave the crust on.
Can I make these bites vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed “egg” and use plant-based milk and vegan butter instead. The result will be just as tasty with a little adjustment.
How do I prevent the butter from burning when cooking?
Cook over medium heat rather than high, and watch closely. Stir the butter gently to prevent it from settling in one spot and overheating.
What’s the best dipping sauce besides maple syrup?
Try honey, fruit compotes, or even a light cream cheese glaze for fun flavor variations that complement the cinnamon sugar coating beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed breakfast without it. It’s simple, fun, and incredibly delicious—perfect for sharing, snacking, or satisfying any sweet craving. Give it a go and watch how quickly these little bites disappear from your plate!
Print
Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 3 to 3.3 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious Cinnamon French Toast Bites made with slightly stale white bread cubes, dipped in a creamy egg mixture, sautéed in butter until golden, and coated in a cinnamon sugar blend. Perfect for dipping in maple syrup for a sweet breakfast treat.
Ingredients
Bread
- 4 thick slices of slightly stale white bread (1″/2.5cm thick)
Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs (or 3 small eggs)
- 1/4 cup milk
- Pinch of salt
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
Cooking
- 3 tbsp butter, separated
To Serve
- Maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Cubes: Cut the crust off the bread slices, then cut each slice into 9 equal cubes. Slightly stale bread is recommended to maintain cube shape and prevent sogginess when dipped in the egg mixture.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This will add richness and flavor to the bread cubes.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: Combine white sugar and cinnamon powder in a shallow bowl, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Melt Butter: Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter in a fry pan over medium-high heat. Take care not to let the butter brown as it can add bitterness.
- Sauté Bread Cubes (Batch 1): Toss half of the bread cubes quickly in the egg mixture, shaking off excess. Place the coated cubes in the buttered pan and sauté, stirring and turning with a wooden spoon, until all sides are browned, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the cooked bread cubes from the pan and immediately toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly. Transfer to a serving plate.
- Repeat Cooking for Batch 2: Add the remaining butter to the pan and repeat the sautéing and coating process with the remaining bread cubes.
- Serve: Serve the French toast bites warm with maple syrup for dipping. Enjoy the contrast of the crispy exterior and soft interior.
Notes
- Use slightly stale bread for the best texture, as fresh bread may become too soggy.
- Adjust the cinnamon quantity according to personal preference for sweetness and spice.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the bites while warm and crispy.
- Maple syrup is recommended but can be substituted with honey or fruit compote.
