If you are searching for a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, this French Toast Muffins Recipe offers the perfect solution. Imagine the comforting flavors of traditional French toast transformed into adorable, handheld muffins that are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. These golden, custardy bites combine the rich sweetness of cinnamon and vanilla with the satisfying texture of bread cubes baked to perfection. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to your morning table in a fresh and fun form.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients just right is the secret to nailing the texture and flavor of these French Toast Muffins. Each one plays a crucial role, from adding moisture and richness to delivering that classic cinnamon-sweetness that your taste buds will adore.
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (brioche or French bread preferred): Day-old bread is drier and soaks up the custard perfectly without turning mushy.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to bind the mixture together.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk: Provides creaminess and keeps the muffins tender inside.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious fat for an ultra-rich custard flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings deep, caramel notes that pair wonderfully with cinnamon.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens gently and balances the flavors.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The quintessential spice that gives these muffins their irresistible warmth.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and aroma.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to brighten all the flavors.
- Powdered sugar or maple syrup for serving: Adds the finishing touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
How to Make French Toast Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners to ensure the muffins come out smoothly.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk everything until the mixture is smooth and the sugars have dissolved. This custard base is where the magic begins.
Step 3: Soak the Bread Cubes
Add your cubed day-old bread to the custard mixture. Gently fold the bread so every piece is nicely coated. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up all that creamy, flavorful custard. This step ensures your muffins will be perfectly moist inside without being soggy.
Step 4: Fill the Muffin Tin
Divide the soaked bread and custard mixture evenly among your muffin cups. Press down lightly on the bread cubes to help them hold their shape while baking.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 25 to 28 minutes. You want to bake until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown and the centers are set but still tender.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, let your French Toast Muffins rest for about 5 minutes before removing them from the pan. This little cooling step helps them firm up just enough. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for the ultimate indulgence.
How to Serve French Toast Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar or a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup takes these muffins over the top. For a seasonal twist, try fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream. Each garnish brings a new layer of texture and flavor that makes every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
French Toast Muffins pair beautifully with fresh fruit salads, crispy bacon, or a warm cup of coffee or tea. They make for a complete, satisfying brunch that balances sweet and savory without feeling heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Try assembling a French Toast Muffin brunch board with various toppings and spreads like nut butter, fruit preserves, or cream cheese. Inviting guests to customize their muffins adds a fun, interactive element to your breakfast spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They stay soft and flavorful, ready to enjoy whenever a quick breakfast craving hits.
Freezing
French Toast Muffins freeze wonderfully. Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to three months for a handy breakfast option that you can pull out anytime.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated muffins in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or pop them into a toaster oven for a few minutes. This reheating method restores their fresh-baked texture and warmth perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for French Toast Muffins Recipe?
Absolutely! Brioche or French bread are ideal due to their texture and flavor, but you can experiment with challah, sourdough, or even whole wheat bread. Just ensure the bread is a bit stale to soak up the custard well.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap the whole milk and heavy cream for your favorite dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream. The texture might vary slightly, but the muffins will still turn out delicious.
Can I add mix-ins to the French Toast Muffins Recipe?
Definitely! Adding raisins, mini chocolate chips, or chopped nuts can add delightful bursts of flavor and texture. Fold them in with the bread cubes before soaking.
How long do French Toast Muffins stay fresh?
They are best enjoyed the same day, but stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to two days at room temperature. Refrigeration extends this to about four days.
Can these muffins be made ahead for a brunch gathering?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture the night before, refrigerate it, and bake in the morning. This makes hosting a breeze without sacrificing that fresh-from-the-oven experience.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the ease, sweetness, and warmth of this French Toast Muffins Recipe that can brighten any morning. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a quick breakfast solution, these muffins deliver all the classic French toast goodness in a new and delightful form. I can’t wait for you to whip up a batch and share the joy they bring to your table.
Print
French Toast Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 28 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These French Toast Muffins are a delightful breakfast treat combining the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a muffin. Made with cubed day-old brioche or French bread soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard, they are baked to golden perfection and optionally served with powdered sugar or maple syrup for a sweet finish. Perfect for easy brunches or a make-ahead breakfast, they can also be customized with add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips.
Ingredients
Bread Mixture
- 6 cups cubed day-old bread (brioche or French bread preferred)
Custard
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Powdered sugar or maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners to prevent sticking.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Soak the Bread: Add the cubed day-old bread to the custard mixture and gently stir to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Let the bread soak for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing it to absorb the custard fully.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Divide the soaked bread mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups, pressing down lightly to help the muffins hold their shape during baking.
- Bake: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers are set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then carefully remove them. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Notes
- You can add chopped nuts, raisins, or mini chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor variety.
- These muffins freeze well—store in an airtight container and reheat in the microwave or toaster oven for a quick and convenient breakfast option.
