If you love the warm, cozy flavor of classic French toast but crave something more portable and easy to share, these Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are for you. Inspired by traditional French toast but baked into perfectly portioned muffins, they are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even as a sweet afternoon snack.
I first discovered this idea while searching for a way to use leftover bread and transform it into something everyone in my family would love. These muffins bring the familiar flavor of cinnamon-kissed French toast to a handheld treat that’s easy to pack in lunch boxes or grab on the way out the door. Serve them warm with maple syrup or a side of fresh berries for a truly delightful start to the day.
Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
- Uses up day-old bread in the most delicious way
- Perfectly portioned for breakfasts on the go
- Cozy, comforting cinnamon sugar flavor
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Ingredients
Muffin Base
- 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Equipment You’ll Need
- 12-cup muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Silicone or pastry brush
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper muffin liners for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Add the cubed day-old bread to the egg mixture. Gently fold to coat the bread evenly, then let it soak for about 5 minutes so the bread absorbs all the delicious custard flavors.
Step 4: Fill the Muffin Cups
Evenly distribute the soaked bread mixture among the prepared muffin cups, pressing down lightly with the back of a spoon so they hold their shape.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and set in the center.
Step 6: Add the Topping
While the muffins are still warm, brush each one with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle generously over each muffin.
Step 7: Serve
Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips and Variations
- Make it fruity: Fold in a handful of fresh blueberries or diced apples for extra flavor.
- Bread swap: Brioche or challah work beautifully for an even richer texture.
- Add nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch.
- Dairy-free option: Use almond milk and coconut cream instead of dairy milk and heavy cream.
- Sweet drizzle: Top with a quick vanilla glaze made of powdered sugar and milk if you prefer a sweeter finish.
Storage and Reheating
- Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently in the microwave for 15–20 seconds before serving
- Freeze for longer storage by placing cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge and warm before eating
Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins taste wonderful on their own but pair beautifully with:
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas
- A drizzle of maple syrup
- A dusting of powdered sugar
- Freshly brewed coffee or chai tea
Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)
Servings: 6
- Calories: ~320
- Fat: 14 grams
- Carbohydrates: 38 grams
- Protein: 9 grams
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
Yes, but day-old bread holds its shape better and soaks up the custard more evenly without falling apart.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! They keep well in the fridge and can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk will work as a substitute, but the muffins may have a slightly different flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely — just use gluten-free bread cubes in place of regular bread.
How do I know when they’re done?
They should be golden on top and set in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.
Final Thoughts
These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are the perfect answer to busy mornings or a brunch gathering with friends. With their cozy cinnamon flavor and fluffy, custard-soaked bread base, they combine everything you love about French toast with the ease and fun of a muffin. Portable, kid-friendly, and easy to customize, these muffins will become a staple in your kitchen all year long.
If you try them, I’d love to hear what creative twists you added — maybe a swirl of chocolate or a sprinkle of nuts. Happy baking!
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
Ingredients
Muffin Base
- 4 cups day-old bread cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Topping
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Muffin Tin
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper muffin liners for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Make the Custard
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
- Add the cubed day-old bread to the egg mixture. Gently fold to coat the bread evenly, then let it soak for about 5 minutes so the bread absorbs all the delicious custard flavors.
Step 4: Fill the Muffin Cups
- Evenly distribute the soaked bread mixture among the prepared muffin cups, pressing down lightly with the back of a spoon so they hold their shape.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and set in the center.
Step 6: Add the Topping
- While the muffins are still warm, brush each one with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping, then sprinkle generously over each muffin.
Step 7: Serve
- Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
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