Name: French Toast Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12
Ingredients: - 16–18 ounce loaf of brioche, challah, or fresh sourdough, sliced into 1” cubes; - 6 large eggs; - 1 ½ cups whole or 2% milk; - 2 tablespoons brown sugar; - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; - ½ teaspoon kosher salt; - ⅓ cup walnut pieces (optional)

Imagine the aroma of warm cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, promising a decadent treat that’s both comforting and delightful. French Toast Muffins are one of those delicious creations that blend the best of breakfast and dessert. With a crunchy topping and soft, custardy center, these muffins are perfect for those moments when you crave a little indulgence. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip them up without a fuss, making them an irresistible addition to any brunch menu.

I remember a chilly Sunday morning when I first baked these muffins. The scent of vanilla and spices curled around me, filling my tiny kitchen with coziness. As the muffins baked, I sat with my family, sipping coffee, savoring the anticipation. When we finally tasted them, the happiness on everyone’s face matched the warmth in my heart, a moment I cherish.

The sweet story behind French toast muffins

French Toast Muffins bring together the cherished breakfast classic and the convenience of a muffin. Originating from the French dish “pain perdu,” meaning “lost bread,” this creation transforms stale bread into something delightful. Historically, it was a way to avoid waste, turning leftover bread into a sweet treat. Over time, these muffins have evolved from pan-cooked to baked wonders, blending custardy interiors with golden, crispy tops. They’re a unique fusion of tradition and modern baking, offering the essence of French toast in a portable, mess-free form.

What’s in the mix?

There’s something delightfully comforting about French Toast Muffins. Each ingredient plays a unique role, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying. Let’s delve into the lineup of this cozy breakfast treat and see how each component contributes to its deliciousness!

Brioche, Challah, or Sourdough 🍞: These breads soak up the custardy mix beautifully, providing a hearty base. I’ve tried using day-old bread and found it absorbs flavors best. Opt for fresh loaves if possible—they offer that perfect texture balance.
Large Eggs 🥚: Eggs bind everything together and give the muffins their structure. If you’re out of eggs, a flaxseed mixture can work as a substitute, though it changes the texture slightly. Eggs also pack a protein punch, making this breakfast satisfying.
Whole or 2% Milk 🥛: This adds creaminess and moisture to the muffins. I’ve used almond milk in the past, and it offers a subtle nutty twist that’s pleasant. Whichever you choose, ensure it’s fresh to maintain the recipe’s richness.
Brown Sugar 🍬: It sweetens and enhances the warm, caramel-like notes. Regular granulated sugar can step in, but brown sugar’s molasses content gives depth. I like to store my sugar in an airtight container to prevent clumping.
Ground Cinnamon 🌿: Ah, cinnamon—the spice that brings warmth and a hint of spice. If you’re a fan of spice variety, nutmeg or even a dash of pumpkin pie spice can be lovely. Cinnamon is also known for its antioxidant properties.
Kosher Salt 🧂: Just a pinch helps balance all the flavors. Table salt can be a stand-in, but I find kosher salt offers a mellower taste. It’s one of those little ingredients that makes a big difference.
Walnut Pieces (Optional) 🌰: If you enjoy a bit of crunch, walnuts are wonderful. Pecans can swap in nicely if you prefer. I often toast them lightly to enhance their nutty aroma before adding them on top.

Enjoy making these French Toast Muffins, and may every bite be a little moment of bliss!

Must-have gear for French toast muffin magic🍽️

Knowing your kitchen tools can make cooking feel like a breeze! Here’s a little guide to make sure you have the essentials at hand:

Whisk: A versatile tool, perfect for mixing custards or batters. If you don’t have one, a fork can be your go-to for smaller tasks.
Mixing Bowl: Preferably a set of various sizes. They’re great for combining ingredients, and an oversized one can double as a popcorn bowl on movie nights.
Muffin Tin: Essential for baking muffins or even mini frittatas. In a pinch, you can use ramekins, but be cautious with baking time adjustments.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking, so make sure you have reliable ones. If not, check common household items for rough measurements – like a coffee cup for a cup measure.
Spatula: Great for gentle folding and scraping, a rubber spatula helps avoid waste. Can’t find one? A wooden spoon can be a handy substitute.

Having these tools makes kitchen adventures much more enjoyable, reducing stress and enhancing creativity.

How to make French toast muffins at home?👩‍🍳

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven and Ready the Muffin Tin
Start by setting your oven to a toasty 350°F (about 175°C). It’s essential to get it nice and hot so those muffins rise beautifully. While the oven gets ready, take a moment to lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with either a swipe of melted butter or a quick spray of cooking oil, whichever you prefer. This helps prevent sticking and makes muffin removal a breeze.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard Mixture
Grab a large mixing bowl and crack open those six large eggs. Whisk them until they’re a pale yellow, then add in the milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until everything is just right—no streaks of egg or clumps of cinnamon. This fragrant mixture is going to soak into the bread and bring everything together with a warm, cozy flavor.
Step 3: Soak the Bread Cubes
Now, for the fun part: toss your cubed bread into the bowl with the custard. Gently mix it all together with your hands, making sure each piece gets a good soak. Go easy, though—you want to avoid turning the bread to mush. Every piece should be nicely saturated, ready to capture all that delicious flavor.
Step 4: Fill the Muffin Cups
Divide the soaked bread evenly among your prepared muffin cups, aiming for about half a cup per tin. Pour in any leftover custard from the bowl, giving each muffin a little extra soak. You’re looking for a well-distributed mixture so that each bite is just as tasty as the last.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden Perfection
Slide your muffin tin into the preheated oven and let the little guys bake for about 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are beautifully golden and the custard is set. If you’ve prepped these the night before, give them a little extra time in the oven to account for the chill.
Step 6: Add Toppings and Serve
Once out of the oven, feel free to sprinkle on some walnut pieces for a bit of crunch. A dusting of powdered sugar wouldn’t go amiss either, adding a sweet finish. Serve these warm from the oven with a drizzle of maple syrup, and enjoy the smiles they bring.
Step 7: Overnight Preparation for Morning Ease
For the planners among us, you can prepare the custard mixture and soak the bread the night before. After dividing it into muffin cups, cover them tightly and pop them into the fridge. In the morning, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking, adding a couple of extra minutes to the bake time to ensure they’re perfect.
Step 8: Night-Before Prep for Brioche or Challah
If you’re using brioche or challah, take a more leisurely approach by making the custard and cubing the bread the night before. Place the custard in the fridge overnight, and combine with the bread in the morning just before baking. This ensures a velvety texture and rich flavor that will start your day off right.

Creative twists and tasty spins

French Toast Muffins are incredibly versatile! I tried a gluten-free version using a GF sourdough loaf, which turned out just as deliciously fluffy. For a vegan twist, I substituted eggs with flaxseed eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and swapped the milk with almond milk, resulting in a slightly nutty undertone. Adding fresh blueberries was a delightful seasonal experiment that gave a burst of freshness. A dash of cardamom and a sprinkle of pistachios created a fragrant Middle Eastern variation, adding an exciting aromatic flair. Each adaptation brought its own unique charm to the table!

How to impress with French toast muffins?

Imagine placing your French Toast Muffins on a rustic wooden platter, sprinkled with a dusting of powdered sugar. A drizzle of maple syrup can add a glossy finish, catching the light just right. Tuck in some fresh berries—perhaps a mix of ripe strawberries and blueberries—for a pop of color that dances off the plate. On the side, consider serving a light fruit salad with a hint of mint for that refreshing touch. For a bit of a savory contrast, crisp bacon or even a few slices of smoked salmon could do just the trick, turning your plate into a banquet of flavors.

Beverage bliss with French toast muffins

When it comes to enjoying those delightful French Toast Muffins, a steaming cup of chai latte is my go-to. There’s something magical about the spicy notes of cinnamon and cardamom that dance alongside the sweet, maple-kissed muffins. If you’re more of a coffee aficionado, a smooth cup of vanilla-flavored coffee pairs just as perfectly, adding a creamy touch to your morning. And let’s not forget the vibrant burst of energy from a fresh orange juice, making it feel like you’re sipping on sunshine. Ah, breakfast bliss!

Keeping your muffins fresh and tasty

To keep those delightful French Toast Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Planning to enjoy them later? Simply wrap in foil and pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. For a quicker option, a short zap in the microwave (about 30 seconds) does the trick, though they might be slightly softer. Always ensure they’re reheated thoroughly to avoid any food safety hiccups. Sharing these tips ensures you savor every warm, spicy bite just like when they’re fresh out of the oven!

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Oh, the joy of making French Toast Muffins! Yet, sometimes a few hiccups can arise. A common blunder is forgetting to grease the muffin tin. Trust me, a stuck muffin is no one’s friend; a quick spray or brush of butter will save the day.

Another is using stale bread that’s too far gone. While a little staleness is good, rock-hard cubes won’t soak up the custard well. Choose bread that’s just a day or two old.

Lastly, rushing the soaking process can lead to dry muffins. Allow the bread to truly bask in the custard for a moist and flavorful outcome. Keep these tips in mind and your muffins will be a hit!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of bread if I don’t have brioche or challah?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are classic choices due to their rich and tender texture, sourdough can also be a delicious option. Just make sure it’s fresh to avoid a dry muffin. If you’re adventurous, try experimenting with other breads like a hearty whole grain or a sweet cinnamon-raisin loaf for a unique twist.
How do I store leftover French Toast Muffins?
If you find yourself with extras, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave for a quick breakfast or pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain that freshly-baked warmth.
Is it possible to make these muffins dairy-free?
Certainly! You can easily swap the whole or 2% milk with your favorite non-dairy milk alternative, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the balance of flavors. The muffins should still turn out deliciously satisfying.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
Yes, prepping in advance is a great time-saver! You can make the custard and soak the bread the night before. Simply cover and refrigerate overnight. The next morning, let it sit out for about 30 minutes before baking, and then follow the usual baking instructions. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a leisurely morning.
What can I use instead of walnuts for a nut-free version?
If you’re avoiding nuts, consider topping your muffins with something like chocolate chips, sunflower seeds, or a sprinkle of shredded coconut. These can add a lovely texture and flavor without the need for nuts. Enjoy customizing your muffins to your taste!

Final thoughts on your sweet creations!🎉

And there you have it, my friend. Isn’t it exciting to imagine the delightful aroma of these French Toast Muffins wafting through your kitchen? I’m telling you, these little bites of joy are just a whisk and a bake away. Don’t hesitate to tweak the recipe—add some berries, a sprinkle of nuts, or even a dash of cinnamon to make them truly yours. So, go ahead, grab your apron, and savor every delicious moment. After all, cooking should be as much fun as eating, right? Happy muffin making!