If you’re craving a delightful breakfast treat or a quick snack to boost your day, our French Toast Muffins are just what you need. This recipe combines the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a muffin, transforming your favorite morning dish into an easy-to-share, bite-sized delight. Whether for weekend brunch or a weekday morning, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys the comforting taste of cinnamon, vanilla, and maple.
Back when my children were younger, Saturday mornings were a special affair. I would always make French Toast as a treat. However, as they grew older, their weekend activities made it harder to sit down for a full breakfast. That’s when I came up with the idea for these muffins. They could grab them on the go, enjoying the same flavors without needing to stop and sit down at the table. Now, they often ask for these whenever they come home to visit, so they’ve become a cherished family tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick to prepare and brings together the familiar flavors of French toast with the added convenience of muffins. It’s a versatile option that can easily be made ahead for busy mornings or shared at a potluck or brunch party. With a hint of nutmeg and a delicious maple glaze, each bite is a comforting reminder of home-cooked breakfasts. Plus, the recipe can be customized to suit dietary preferences, making it a universally appealing option.
Ingredients Notes
Essentially, you’ll need some simple pantry staples: bread, eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. It’s important to use day-old bread for the muffins to absorb the egg mixture better, similar to traditional French toast. For the best results, opt for brioche or challah for a rich taste. If you’re lactose intolerant, unsweetened almond or oat milk can be a perfect substitute.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin. This ensures our muffins bake evenly and can be removed easily.
Step 2
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is the heart of your muffin, infusing it with flavor and moisture.
Step 3
Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and toss it into the egg mixture, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Allow it to soak for about 10 minutes.
Step 4
Scoop the bread and egg mixture into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top. Press down gently to ensure it’s packed in well.
Step 5
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the muffins have set. Once cooled, drizzle with a touch of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
Storage Options
These muffins store wonderfully. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you intend to keep them longer, freeze individually wrapped muffins for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave them briefly or warm them in an oven for a few minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist or include a handful of raisins or chopped nuts for added texture. For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk and replace butter with coconut oil. You can also reduce sugar by using mashed bananas as a natural sweetener.
Serving Suggestions
These muffins are perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or a cozy weekend brunch. Serve them warm with a drizzle of honey or alongside a fruit salad. They also make an excellent addition to a holiday breakfast table or a delightful afternoon snack with coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of bread? Absolutely! While brioche and challah are ideal for their rich texture, feel free to experiment with sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread to suit your taste or dietary needs.
How can I make these muffins vegan? For a vegan version, replace eggs with flaxseed meal and water mixture, and use non-dairy milk such as almond or soy. Adjust the sweetness with agave syrup or maple syrup.
What can I serve with these muffins? These muffins pair well with fresh fruit compote, yogurt, or a simple side of Scrambled Eggs. Enjoying them with a cup of coffee or tea also enhances the experience, making for a wholesome breakfast or brunch.
French Toast Muffins
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices bread day-old preferred
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar granulated
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the bread into cubes and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and sugar.
- Add the bread cubes to the mixture and gently stir to coat.
- Spoon the mixture into a pre-greased muffin tin.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
