Start your day on a delicious note with the enticing aroma of warm cinnamon and sugar wafting from your kitchen. These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are not just breakfast; they’re a delightful experience that elevates your morning routine. With a golden-brown exterior, a soft, custardy interior, and a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping, each bite is a journey of flavors that will leave you craving for more. Let’s dive into the magic of these delightful muffins.
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 and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Bread Cubes: Take the loaf of sandwich bread and cut it into cubes, totaling about 6 cups. Place the cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In another bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together with the whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine with Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring that each cube is thoroughly coated. Allow the bread to soak up the mixture for a few minutes.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the soaked bread cubes into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup almost to the top. Press down gently to compact the cubes.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping.
- Add Topping: Drizzle the melted butter over the muffins, ensuring each one gets a delicious coating. Then, generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top of each muffin, covering them evenly.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting goodness of these Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Stuffed French Toast Muffins: For an extra surprise, add a dollop of cream cheese or your favorite fruit jam to the center of each muffin before baking. This adds a burst of flavor that will delight your taste buds.
- Nutty Crunch: Enhance the texture of your muffins by sprinkling chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, on top of the cinnamon sugar mixture before baking. This adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- Make Ahead: These muffins can be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven for a quick and convenient breakfast option.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use any type of bread for this recipe? A: While sandwich bread works well for this recipe, you can also use brioche, challah, or French bread for a richer flavor. Experiment with different types of bread to find your favorite variation.
Q: Can I use a dairy-free milk alternative? A: Yes, you can substitute whole milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other dairy-free alternative of your choice. Adjust the sweetness level according to your preference if using sweetened alternatives.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To maintain their freshness, reheat them before serving by briefly warming them in the microwave or oven.
With their irresistible combination of cinnamon, sugar, and custardy bread, these Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, they are sure to brighten up your mornings with their delicious flavor and comforting aroma. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these delightful muffins, and let each bite transport you to breakfast bliss. Enjoy the simple pleasure of a homemade breakfast made with love and care!
