How to Make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins in 5 Steps

Picture this: It’s a busy weekday morning, and you’re craving something warm, sweet, and nostalgic—like French toast—but you need it fast. Or maybe you’re hosting brunch and want a crowd-pleasing treat that’s as easy to make as it is to devour. Enter Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins, the genius mashup of fluffy French toast and portable muffins, all coated in a crispy, sugary cinnamon shell.

This recipe is your golden ticket to breakfast bliss. In just 5 simple steps, you’ll transform stale bread (no waste here!), pantry staples, and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar into a batch of irresistible muffins. They’re perfect for meal preppers, parents racing against the school bell, or anyone who believes brunch deserves a little ✨sparkle✨.

Whether you’re a French toast fanatic or a muffin lover looking for a twist, these bites deliver the best of both worlds: crispy edges, soft centers, and that cozy cinnamon-sugar aroma that turns any morning into a special occasion. Plus, they’re endlessly adaptable—swap in gluten-free bread, dairy-free milk, or even add chocolate chips for a decadent twist.

Ready to ditch the skillet and bake your French toast instead? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s about to become your new breakfast MVP.

Why These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Are a Breakfast Game-Changer

Before we jump into the recipe, here’s why these muffins deserve a permanent spot in your breakfast rotation.

1. Perfect for Busy Mornings (No Skillet Required!)

• Meal Prep Magic: Prep the muffins the night before and bake them fresh in the morning—ideal for chaotic school days or rushed work mornings.
• Freezer-Friendly: Double the batch and freeze extras for up to 1 month. Pop them in the microwave for a 60-second breakfast!
• Portable & Mess-Free: Skip the sticky syrup drizzle—these muffins are coated in cinnamon sugar, making them easy to eat on the go.

2. Kid-Approved & Crowd-Pleasing Breakfast Muffins

These cinnamon sugar French toast muffins are sure to be a hit with everyone, from picky eaters to brunch guests.

• Sweet, Not Sugary: The cinnamon sugar coating satisfies cravings without overwhelming sweetness, so even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
• Fun to Customize: Let kids add toppings like chocolate chips, blueberries, or a drizzle of honey for a personalized treat.
• Brunch Showstopper: Serve these at weekend gatherings or holiday breakfasts (think Christmas or Mother’s Day) for guaranteed compliments.

3. Uses Simple, Pantry-Friendly Ingredients

• No Waste: Revive stale bread (like challah, brioche, or sourdough) instead of tossing it—the drier the bread, the better the texture!
• Budget-Friendly: Requires basics like eggs, milk, and pantry spices—no fancy ingredients needed.
• Easy Swaps: Use dairy-free milk or gluten-free bread for dietary needs, or swap white sugar for coconut sugar.

4. Faster & Crispier Than Classic French Toast

• No Flipping Required: Bake a whole batch at once in a muffin tin—no babysitting a skillet or flipping soggy bread.
• Crispy Edges, Soft Centers: The muffin tin creates golden, caramelized edges (thanks to the cinnamon sugar coating) while keeping the inside custardy.
• Portion Control: Individual muffins mean no fighting over slices—perfect for families or portion-conscious eaters.

Ingredients & Tools You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry staples and basic tools to make these muffins—no fancy equipment required!

1. Essential Ingredients for French Toast Muffins

Using the right bread is crucial for perfect cinnamon sugar French toast muffins—stale or toasted works best!

• Bread:
  • Best Choices: Challah, brioche, or day-old sourdough (stale bread absorbs custard better without turning mushy).
  • Pro Tip: No stale bread? Toast fresh bread at 300°F for 10 minutes to dry it out!
• Custard Base:
  • Eggs (binds the muffins and adds richness).
  • Milk (whole milk for creaminess, or dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk).
  • Pure vanilla extract (enhances flavor; imitation works in a pinch).
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
  • Granulated sugar + ground cinnamon (the classic combo).
  • Optional: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for warmth.

2. Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flair

• Sweet Twists:
  • Brown sugar swirl: Layer a spoonful of brown sugar between bread cubes.
  • Chocolate chips or diced apples for a fruity or decadent twist.
• Crunchy Toppings:
  • Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top before baking.
  • A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup post-bake.
• Savory-Sweet Balance:
  • Crispy bacon bits (trust us, it works!).

3. Tools to Bake French Toast Muffins

• Muffin Tin:
  • Use a standard 12-cup tin for even baking.
  • Pro Tip: Grease wells thoroughly or use parchment liners to prevent sticking.
• Mixing Bowls & Whisk:
  • A large bowl for the custard and a smaller one for cinnamon sugar.
  • No whisk? A fork works for beating eggs!
• Cooling Rack:
  • Ensures muffins crisp up evenly instead of steaming in the tin.

4. Dietary Swaps for Healthier Breakfast Muffins

• Dietary Swaps:
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread (stale or toasted).
  • Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and dairy-free milk.
  • Lower Sugar: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener.
• Pantry Shortcuts:
  • No vanilla extract? Skip it or add a dash of maple syrup.
  • Melted butter vs. cooking spray: Both work for greasing the tin.

Step-by-Step Instructions (5 Simple Steps)

Now, let’s turn those pantry staples into golden, cinnamon-sugar bliss! Follow these foolproof steps for perfect muffins every time.

Step1 : Prepping Bread for French Toast Muffins

• Choose Your Bread:
  • Best Options: Stale challah, brioche, or sourdough (day-old bread absorbs custard better without becoming soggy).
  • No Stale Bread? Toast fresh slices at 300°F for 5–7 minutes to dry them out.
• Cube the Bread: Cut into 1-inch pieces for even custard distribution.
• Prep the Tin:
  • Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray, or use parchment liners for easy cleanup.
  • Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar into each well before adding bread.

Step2 : Mixing the Custard for Baked French Toast Muffins

• Whisk Wet Ingredients:
  • In a large bowl, combine 4 large eggs, 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based), 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp cinnamon.
  • Pro Tip: For richer muffins, substitute ½ cup heavy cream for part of the milk.
• Sweeten It Up: Add 2 tbsp brown sugar (optional) for caramel-like depth.
• Soak the Bread:
  • Gently fold bread cubes into the custard. Let sit 10–15 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for make-ahead muffins).
  • Avoid Sogginess: Stir halfway to ensure even soaking.

Step3 : Assemble the Muffins

• Layer the Mix:
  • Divide soaked bread evenly into muffin wells (about ¾ full). Press down lightly to compact.
  • Add Extras: Sprinkle chocolate chips, diced apples, or a spoonful of brown sugar between layers.
• Drizzle Remaining Custard: Pour any leftover liquid over the muffins for extra moisture.
• Prep for Baking: Let the tin rest 5 minutes while the oven preheats to 375°F.

Step4 : Bake to Golden Perfection

• Bake:
  • 20–25 minutes at 375°F until tops are golden and centers are set.
  • Test Doneness: Insert a toothpick—it should come out clean (no wet custard).
• Crispy Edges Hack: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for caramelized tops (watch closely!).
• Cool Slightly: Let muffins sit in the tin for 5 minutes before removing to a cooling rack.

Step5 : Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

• Mix the Coating: Combine ½ cup granulated sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
• Coat While Warm:
  • Roll each muffin in the cinnamon sugar immediately after baking (the heat helps the sugar stick).
  • Extra Crunch: Double-coat by brushing muffins with melted butter before rolling.
• Serve or Store:
  • Enjoy warm with maple syrup, or cool completely and freeze for later.

Serving Suggestions & Storage Tips

These muffins are delicious fresh from the oven, but with a few simple tricks, you can keep them tasting like new for days!”

1. How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

• Classic Pairings:
  • Drizzle with warm maple syrup or honey for extra indulgence.
  • Add a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt for contrast.
  • Serve with fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries) or caramelized bananas.
• Brunch Upgrade:
  • Arrange muffins on a platter with savory sides like scrambled eggs, bacon, or avocado toast.
  • Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with mint leaves for a fancy touch.
• Kid-Friendly Fun:
  • Let kids dunk muffins in yogurt or chocolate sauce for a DIY breakfast bar.
  • Pack in lunchboxes with a side of apple slices or cheese sticks.

2. Storing Leftover Cinnamon Sugar Muffins

• Room Temperature:
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day (ideal if you prefer softer muffins).
• Refrigerator:
  • Keep in a sealed container for 3–4 days.
  • Pro Tip: Place a paper towel underneath to absorb moisture and prevent sogginess.
• Reviving Leftovers:
  • Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes to restore crispiness.
  • Microwave for 15–20 seconds for a quick warm-up (texture will be softer).

3. Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Freezing Method:
  • Cool muffins completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap.
  • Place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month.
• Reheating from Frozen:
  • Oven: Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes (no thawing needed).
  • Microwave: Heat for 30–60 seconds, then toast in a pan for crisp edges.
• Freezer Pro Tip: Freeze muffins before coating in cinnamon sugar. After reheating, roll them in fresh cinnamon sugar for maximum crunch.

4. Meal Prep Hacks for Busy Weeks

• Overnight Prep:
  • Assemble muffins (unbaked) the night before. Cover and refrigerate, then bake in the morning.
• Batch Cooking:
  • Double the recipe and freeze half for future meals.
• Portable Breakfasts:
  • Pack frozen muffins in lunchboxes—they’ll thaw by mid-morning!
• Customizable Add-Ins:
  • Prep different flavor variations (e.g., apple cinnamon, chocolate chip) and freeze separately for variety.

Creative Variations & Pro Tips for French Toast Muffins

Once you’ve mastered the basics, experiment with these creative twists and expert tricks to make these muffins truly your own!

1. Flavor Twists to Keep It Exciting

• Apple Cinnamon Bliss:
  • Fold 1 cup of finely diced apples (e.g., Granny Smith) into the custard-soaked bread.
  • Add ½ tsp nutmeg to the cinnamon sugar coating for warm, spiced flavor.
• Decadent Chocolate Chip:
  • Mix ½ cup mini chocolate chips into the bread cubes before baking.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate over muffins post-bake for a dessert-like treat.
• Berry Burst:
  • Add ¾ cup fresh blueberries or raspberries (tossed in flour to prevent sinking).
  • Swap cinnamon sugar for a lemon-sugar coating for a zesty contrast.
• Savory-Sweet Hybrid:
  • Reduce sugar in the custard and add crispy bacon bits + shredded cheddar.
  • Finish with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.

2. Gluten-Free & Vegan French Toast Muffins

• Gluten-Free:
  • Use gluten-free bread (stale or lightly toasted) and ensure oats are certified GF if using.
  • Pro Tip: Add 1 tbsp ground flaxseed to the custard for better binding.
• Vegan:
  • Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flax + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
  • Use plant-based milk (oat or almond) and vegan butter for greasing the tin.
• Lower Sugar:
  • Substitute coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener in the custard and coating.
  • Skip the sugar coating and sprinkle with cinnamon + crushed nuts instead.

3. Pro Tips for Perfect Muffins Every Time

• Avoid Sogginess:
  • Use stale or toasted bread—fresh bread absorbs too much custard and turns mushy.
  • Drain excess custard before assembling muffins (save it for a second batch!).
• Crispy Edges Hack:
  • Bake muffins on the oven’s middle rack and finish with a 1-minute broil (watch closely!).
  • Brush muffin tops with melted butter before coating in cinnamon sugar.
• Even Baking:
  • Let the muffin tin rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before baking to ensure even heat distribution.
  • Rotate the tin halfway through baking if your oven has hot spots.
• Don’t Overmix:
  • Gently fold bread into the custard—overmixing can break down the bread and create a dense texture.

4. Scaling & Batch Cooking Hacks

• Double the Batch:
  • Use two muffin tins or bake in a 9×13-inch dish for a French toast casserole-style bake (adjust time to 35–40 minutes).
• Freezer-Friendly:
  • Freeze unbaked muffins (wrap the tin in foil) and bake straight from frozen—add 5–7 minutes to the baking time.
• Mini Muffins:
  • Use a 24-cup mini muffin tin for bite-sized portions (bake 12–15 minutes). Perfect for parties or snacks!
• Repurpose Leftovers:
  • Crumble day-old muffins into a trifle with yogurt and fruit, or use as a base for bread pudding.

Conclusion:

There you have it—everything you need to whip up a batch of irresistible Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins that are as easy to make as they are to love. With just 5 simple steps, pantry staples, and a sprinkle of creativity, you’ve got a breakfast (or brunch, or snack!) that’s crispy on the outside, custardy on the inside, and coated in that iconic cinnamon-sugar crunch.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for hectic mornings, hosting a laid-back brunch, or sneaking a sweet treat into your kid’s lunchbox, these muffins are your new secret weapon. And don’t forget—this recipe is a canvas! Swap in seasonal fruits, go gluten-free, or add a drizzle of caramel to make it your own.

So go ahead, preheat that oven and let the aroma of cinnamon sugar fill your kitchen. Once you taste these muffins, there’s no going back to regular French toast. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later, or better yet, share your creations with us on Instagram [@goldenforkrecipes_]. Craving more healthy treats? Try our latest obsession: The Best Protein Cookie Dough Recipe – Easy & Healthy!—it’s guilt-free indulgence at its finest.

Happy baking! 🧁✨