Cinnamon sugar french toast has been my ultimate comfort food since I was a kid. My mom would whip up a batch on lazy Saturday mornings, and the house would fill with the most incredible aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar. The bread cubes would soak up that eggy, milky mixture, promising a fluffy interior with a delightful crunch on the outside. This cinnamon sugar french toast recipe is my take on that nostalgic treat, transformed into easy-to-make muffins. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast or even a sweet dessert when those cravings hit. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar French Toast
This isn’t just another breakfast dish; it’s an experience! You’ll adore this easy cinnamon sugar french toast for so many reasons:
- Incredibly Quick: Perfect for busy mornings when you need a delicious meal fast.
- Minimal Effort: The muffin tin does most of the work, making cleanup a breeze.
- Irresistible Texture: Expect a wonderfully moist interior contrasted with a delightful, crunchy topping.
- Versatile Treat: It works beautifully as a satisfying breakfast or a sweet dessert.
- Kid-Friendly Appeal: The sweet flavor and fun, muffin-like format are a hit with all ages.
- Uses Stale Bread: A brilliant way to reduce food waste and create something amazing.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the sweetness or add other flavors to make it your own.
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making the best cinnamon sugar french toast. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples for a delightful treat.
- 1 cup milk – Any milk works, but whole milk adds richness.
- 2 large eggs – These bind everything together and create that custardy texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A touch of vanilla enhances the sweetness and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – This is crucial for that classic french toast flavor.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the custard base.
- 8 slices of brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes – These sturdy, slightly sweet breads hold their shape well and absorb the custard beautifully.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Cinnamon Sugar French Toast
The base of this recipe relies on a classic custard made from milk, eggs, and a touch of granulated sugar. Using slightly stale brioche or challah bread is key, as it soaks up the custard without becoming too mushy. For more information on the science behind baking, you can explore resources on baking science.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping Ingredients
For that signature sweet crunch on your cinnamon sugar french toast, you’ll need a simple yet magical mix: 1/4 cup granulated sugar combined with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, plus 2 tablespoons melted butter to help it adhere.
Preparing the Batter and Bread
Let’s get started on this delightful cinnamon sugar french toast! First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup milk, 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. This liquid gold is what makes our french toast so delicious. Next, add your 8 slices of brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes to the bowl. Give them a gentle stir to ensure every piece is coated. Let these soak for about 10 minutes; you want them saturated but not falling apart.
Assembling and Baking the French Toast
Once the bread has had a good soak for your easy cinnamon sugar french toast, it’s time to assemble. In a separate small bowl, mix together the topping ingredients: 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the soaked bread cubes before proceeding. Now, evenly divide the soaked bread cubes among the prepared muffin cups. Drizzle 2 tablespoons melted butter over the bread in each cup. This is where the magic happens for that signature crunch! Generously sprinkle the prepared cinnamon sugar topping over each muffin. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the centers are set. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell absolutely divine! For more recipe ideas, explore our collection.
Cooling and Serving the French Toast
The aroma filling your kitchen is incredible, signaling that your homemade cinnamon sugar french toast is almost ready. After they come out of the oven, let the muffins cool slightly in the tin for about 5 minutes. This helps them firm up. Then, carefully transfer the cinnamon sugar french toast muffins to a wire rack to cool a bit more. Serve them warm, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup or some fresh berries, for the ultimate breakfast treat! You might also enjoy our Oatmeal Apple Breakfast Bake.
Pro Tips for the Best Cinnamon Sugar French Toast
Want to elevate your cinnamon sugar french toast game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. Follow these tips for a truly spectacular breakfast!
- Use slightly stale bread: Day-old brioche or challah is perfect. Fresh bread can become too soggy and fall apart.
- Don’t oversoak: While you want the bread cubes to absorb the custard, oversoaking can lead to a mushy interior.
- Butter the topping: Drizzling melted butter before the cinnamon sugar topping helps it adhere beautifully and get extra crispy.
- Watch the oven: Keep an eye on your muffins during the last few minutes of baking to ensure that glorious topping caramelizes perfectly without burning.
What’s the secret to perfect fluffy cinnamon sugar french toast?
The secret to that perfect fluffy texture in your cinnamon sugar french toast lies in the bread-to-custard ratio and the type of bread. Using brioche or challah, which are enriched doughs, provides a wonderful structure that holds the custard without becoming dense. Soaking them just right is key!
Can I make cinnamon sugar french toast casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! Prepare the entire muffin mixture, assemble them in the tin, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold temperature. For other make-ahead options, check out our Crockpot Taco Casserole.
How do I avoid common mistakes with crispy cinnamon sugar french toast?
To ensure your crispy cinnamon sugar french toast is perfect, avoid overmixing the custard, which can make it tough. Also, don’t skimp on the melted butter before adding the topping; it’s essential for that lovely caramelized crust. Finally, resist the urge to immediately remove them from the pan, as letting them cool slightly helps them hold their shape.
Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Sugar French Toast
Now that you’ve made this fantastic homemade cinnamon sugar french toast, how should you serve it? The possibilities are delightfully sweet! A classic pairing is a drizzle of warm maple syrup – it melts into the nooks and crannies, adding another layer of cozy flavor. For a brighter, fresher contrast, consider serving these sweet treats with some fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries. They add a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream makes this cinnamon sugar french toast for breakfast feel like a decadent dessert! You might also enjoy our Strawberry Shortcake Bars.
Nutrition Facts for Cinnamon Sugar French Toast
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information for each serving of this delightful cinnamon sugar french toast:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your homemade cinnamon sugar french toast. For more healthy options, consider our Turkey Vegetable Low-Carb Soup.
How to Store and Reheat Cinnamon Sugar French Toast
Once your delicious homemade cinnamon sugar french toast has cooled completely, proper storage is key to keeping it tasty. I like to let them sit on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes after baking to ensure they aren’t steaming inside their container. For storing leftovers, airtight containers are your best friend. You can keep these delightful cinnamon sugar french toast muffins in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good in the freezer for about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them gently. For a quick reheat, pop them in the toaster oven or a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they might lose some of their crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Sugar French Toast
What is cinnamon sugar french toast?
Cinnamon sugar french toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite. It involves dipping bread slices or cubes into a sweet, spiced custard and then coating them generously with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before cooking. The result is a wonderfully sweet and fragrant dish with a fantastic balance of soft interior and a caramelized, crispy exterior.
Why make cinnamon sugar french toast for breakfast?
Why make cinnamon sugar french toast for breakfast? Because it’s incredibly delicious and a step up from regular toast! It transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and satisfying meal that feels special. The warm, sweet, and spicy aroma alone is enough to make any morning brighter. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up bread that’s a day or two old, making it a practical and tasty choice.
Can I use different types of bread for this easy cinnamon sugar french toast?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are fantastic for this easy cinnamon sugar french toast because of their rich texture, you can use other sturdy breads too. Thick-cut white bread, Texas toast, or even a good sourdough can work. Just ensure the bread is slightly stale so it can soak up the custard without falling apart. Avoid very airy or soft breads, as they might turn mushy.
Variations of Cinnamon Sugar French Toast You Can Try
Ready to get a little creative with your breakfast? This cinnamon sugar french toast recipe is wonderfully adaptable! For a healthier spin on homemade cinnamon sugar french toast, try using whole wheat bread or even gluten-free bread. You can also experiment with different milk alternatives like almond or oat milk in the custard base. If you’re looking for a different cooking method, instead of baking, you can make a classic pan-fried version of cinnamon sugar french toast by dipping slices and cooking them in a buttered skillet until golden brown. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar topping for a unique twist on this sweet cinnamon sugar french toast. Explore more unique recipes like our Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet.
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Amazing Cinnamon Sugar French Toast – Quick & Easy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy the delightful taste of Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with this easy recipe. These muffins offer a moist interior and a magical crunchy cinnamon sugar topping, perfect for a quick and satisfying breakfast or snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 slices of brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- For the topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin.
- In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 cup sugar. This mixture is key for your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast.
- Add the bread cubes to the milk mixture and let them soak for about 10 minutes, ensuring each piece is coated for the best Cinnamon Sugar French Toast.
- While the bread soaks, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon.
- Drain any excess liquid from the bread cubes.
- Divide the soaked bread cubes evenly among the prepared muffin cups.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the bread cubes in each muffin cup.
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping generously over each muffin. This creates the signature crust for your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Let the Cinnamon Sugar French Toast muffins cool slightly in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the muffins for 1-2 minutes at the end of the baking time, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve warm with your favorite syrup or fresh fruit for a complete Cinnamon Sugar French Toast experience.
- This recipe is a fantastic way to use up slightly stale bread, making it a versatile Cinnamon Sugar French Toast option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
