Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-make breakfast treat that combines the best of both worlds—French toast and muffins? Look no further! These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are the perfect solution. They offer the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a muffin. Ideal for busy mornings, brunch gatherings, or a sweet snack, these muffins are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and explore some variations, including keto and low-carb options.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of sandwich bread, cubed (about 6 cups)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
- Prepare the Bread: Cut the loaf of sandwich bread into small cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Combine Bread and Egg Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the cubed bread. Gently toss the bread cubes until they are evenly coated with the egg mixture. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the bread to soak up the liquid.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Divide the bread mixture evenly among the prepared muffin cups, pressing down slightly to pack the bread cubes tightly.
- Top with Butter and Sugar: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of each muffin. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the muffins.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and set in the center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Bread Choice: You can use any type of sandwich bread, but white or brioche bread works best for a soft, fluffy texture.
- Extra Flavors: For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of maple syrup to the egg mixture.
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Variations
Keto Version
To make these muffins keto-friendly:
- Replace the sandwich bread with keto bread or make your own low-carb bread cubes.
- Use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia in place of the granulated and brown sugar.
Low-Carb Version
For a low-carb version:
- Use a lower-carb bread option, such as whole grain or almond flour bread.
- Substitute the granulated and brown sugar with coconut sugar or another lower-carb sweetener.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of bread? A: Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer, including whole wheat, brioche, or challah. The texture may vary slightly depending on the bread type.
Q: How can I make these muffins dairy-free? A: Substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Use a dairy-free butter alternative for the melted butter.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the muffins? A: Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like chopped nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the bread mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make these muffins ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the bread mixture and fill the muffin tin the night before. Cover and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture and bake as directed.
Q: How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the tin? A: Grease the muffin tin well or use muffin liners to prevent sticking. Silicone muffin liners also work well and can be reused.
These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of French toast in a portable form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out the keto and low-carb variations, these muffins are a treat everyone will love. Enjoy baking and savoring these delicious muffins with your loved ones!
