Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

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It’s no secret I’m a sucker for anything involving cinnamon and sugar—but these Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins take it to another level. I first made them on a lazy Sunday morning when I had leftover bread and a serious craving for something warm, fluffy, and nostalgic. The result? A muffin that tastes like a cozy morning hug—golden and crispy on the outside, soft and custardy on the inside, with that signature cinnamon-sugar sparkle.

What I especially love is how these muffins bring all the comforting flavor of classic French toast but skip the griddle. No flipping, no fuss—just mix, pour, bake. They’re perfect for brunches, meal prepping breakfast for the week, or just when you want to treat yourself without diving into an elaborate recipe.

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Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

These muffins blend the best of both worlds: the flavor of French toast and the ease of a grab-and-go baked treat. You’ll adore their light yet moist interior, the delicate crunch of cinnamon sugar on top, and how unbelievably simple they are to make. They’re freezer-friendly, kid-approved, and way easier than standing over the stove. Whether you’re serving them fresh out of the oven or reheating for a weekday morning, they never disappoint.

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What Kind of Bread Should I Use for Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins?

You might be wondering: does the type of bread really matter? Absolutely. For the best texture, I recommend using slightly stale brioche or challah. Their soft, rich crumb soaks up the custard without getting soggy, giving you that dreamy, tender bite inside each muffin. If you’re in a pinch, plain white sandwich bread will do, but try to avoid fresh, super-soft loaves—they don’t hold up as well during baking.

A crusty French baguette can also work if you want a more structured bite, but be sure to let it soak a little longer in the custard mix to prevent dryness.

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Options for Substitutions

Need to adapt the recipe to fit your pantry or dietary needs? Here are a few easy swaps:

• Milk: Use any kind—whole milk makes it creamier, but almond, oat, or soy milk are great dairy-free alternatives.
• Eggs: For an egg-free version, try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg). It changes the texture slightly but keeps the muffins moist.
• Butter: Swap with melted coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Sugar: Maple syrup or coconut sugar can replace white sugar for a deeper, more natural sweetness.
• Bread: Gluten-free bread works surprisingly well! Just be sure it’s slightly dry to start with.

These muffins are forgiving, so feel free to experiment and find what works for you.

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Ingredients for These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, warmth, and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

• Day-old Bread
  The heart of the recipe. Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better, holding its shape and texture during baking.
• Eggs
  They bind the ingredients and create that signature French toast custard texture.
• Milk
  Adds creaminess and helps the eggs form a smooth, rich base. Whole milk is ideal for richness, but any milk will work.
• Granulated Sugar
  Adds just the right touch of sweetness inside the muffins and is essential for that cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Ground Cinnamon
  Brings warmth and that cozy, nostalgic flavor we all associate with French toast.
• Vanilla Extract
  A dash of vanilla enhances all the other flavors and adds depth to the custard.
• Salt
  Just a pinch balances out the sweetness and deepens the flavor.
• Melted Butter
  It adds richness to the batter and helps achieve golden, slightly crispy edges.
• Powdered Sugar (optional for garnish)
  A light dusting gives them a bakery-style finish and a sweet, delicate touch.

These simple pantry staples come together to create muffins that taste anything but ordinary.

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Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting your day-old bread into small cubes—around ½-inch pieces work best. You’ll need about 4 to 5 cups of cubed bread. Place them in a large mixing bowl and set aside while you prepare the custard.

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Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully combined and slightly frothy. This custard base is what gives the muffins their signature flavor and texture.

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Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the custard mixture over the cubed bread. Gently stir with a spatula until all pieces are evenly soaked. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes so the bread can absorb the liquid fully. Stir occasionally to make sure no dry spots remain.

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Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin

While the bread is soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray. You can also use paper liners if you prefer an easier cleanup.

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Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the soaked bread mixture evenly into the muffin cups. Press down lightly with the back of a spoon to help them hold their shape and to pack in the custard-soaked bread.

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Step 6: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix extra granulated sugar with a pinch of cinnamon. Sprinkle generously over each muffin before baking. This adds a sweet crunch to the tops and brings out that cinnamon French toast flavor.

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Step 7: Bake

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crisp. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.

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Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then gently remove them and transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

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How Long to Cook the Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

The perfect bake time for these muffins is 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). You’ll know they’re ready when the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp, and the custard is set in the center. Insert a toothpick into the middle of a muffin—if it comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs, they’re done. Avoid overbaking to keep that lovely soft texture inside.

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Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

Getting these muffins just right is easy, but a few extra tips will ensure they’re completely irresistible:

• Use Dry Bread: The drier the bread, the better it soaks up the custard. If your bread is fresh, cube it and let it sit out for a few hours or toast it lightly in the oven before using.
• Let It Soak: Give the bread at least 10 minutes to absorb the custard mixture. This ensures every bite is moist and flavorful.
• Press Down Gently: When filling the muffin tin, lightly press the bread mixture into each cup. This helps the muffins hold their shape and bake evenly.
• Generous Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Don’t skimp on the cinnamon sugar sprinkle before baking—it creates a crisp, sweet top that makes these muffins extra special.
• Watch Your Oven: Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking your muffins at 25 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Before Removing: Let the muffins cool slightly in the pan to firm up. This makes them easier to remove without crumbling.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even simple recipes like Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are a few common missteps to avoid:

• Using Bread That’s Too Fresh
  Fresh bread doesn’t absorb the custard properly and can lead to soggy, mushy muffins. Slightly stale bread is essential for the right texture.
• Skipping the Soak Time
  Rushing the soaking step prevents the custard from fully penetrating the bread, resulting in dry patches or uneven texture.
• Underfilling or Overfilling Muffin Cups
  Don’t pack them too tight or leave them too loose—aim for about ¾ full, gently pressing the mixture to ensure they hold together.
• Overbaking
  This dries out the custard inside. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes and use a toothpick to check doneness.
• Forgetting to Grease the Muffin Tin
  These muffins stick easily. If you’re not using liners, grease each cup thoroughly with butter or spray.
• Neglecting the Topping
  That cinnamon sugar sprinkle before baking adds flavor and crunch—don’t leave it out!

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What to Serve With Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins?

These muffins are great solo, but even better with some breakfast companions. Here are a few ideas:

Fresh Berries

The natural tartness of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries balances the sweetness perfectly.

Greek Yogurt

A scoop of plain or vanilla Greek yogurt on the side adds creaminess and a boost of protein.

Scrambled Eggs

Something savory helps round out the meal and contrast the cinnamon-sugar flavor.

Breakfast Sausage or Bacon

A salty, crispy addition makes the plate feel complete and satisfying.

Maple Syrup

Drizzle a little on top if you want to double down on that French toast experience.

Iced Coffee or Latte

A chilled coffee drink is a great pairing, especially with the warm muffin’s spiced notes.

Sliced Bananas or Apple Slices

They add a naturally sweet and fresh element without overpowering the muffins.

Whipped Cream

For a more indulgent treat, top the muffins with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.

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Storage Instructions

These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins store beautifully, making them a great make-ahead option for busy mornings or meal prep.

• At Room Temperature: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid condensation and sogginess.
• In the Fridge: Store in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds or in a toaster oven to bring back a slight crisp.
• Freezing: These muffins freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave from frozen for 30–40 seconds or warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Proper storage keeps them tasting just as delicious as the day they were baked.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one muffin, assuming the recipe yields 12 muffins and is made with whole milk and standard white bread:

• Calories: ~170
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 3.5g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 160mg
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 4g

These values can vary based on the type of bread and milk used, as well as any optional toppings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the muffins are fully cooked?

Check at the 25-minute mark. The tops should be golden and slightly crisp, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

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Can I make these muffins the night before?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture and fill the muffin tin the night before. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for best results.

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What kind of bread works best?

Brioche, challah, or any rich, slightly stale bread works great. White sandwich bread or a French baguette are solid backups.

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Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy, and replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

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Are these muffins freezer-friendly?

Very much so. Freeze them individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the microwave or oven.

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Can I add mix-ins like fruit or chocolate chips?

Yes! Blueberries, chopped apples, or mini chocolate chips can be folded into the soaked bread mixture before baking.

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Do I need to use paper liners?

You don’t have to, but they make cleanup easier. If not using liners, be sure to generously grease the muffin tin to prevent sticking.

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How can I make them more indulgent?

Top with whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert-style muffins.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are the kind of breakfast treat that feels special without needing a special occasion. They’re easy to make, incredibly comforting, and endlessly customizable to fit your pantry and preferences. Whether you’re making a batch for brunch guests or meal-prepping for your week ahead, these muffins hit all the right notes—warm, sweet, and satisfying with just a little crunch on top. One bite and they might just become a new breakfast favorite in your home.

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