There’s something magical about French toast. Now imagine all that cozy, cinnamon-sugar goodness packed into a soft, golden muffin. That’s what you get with French toast muffins — a genius twist on a breakfast classic. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or treating guests to a brunch surprise, this recipe will become your new go-to. Ready to level up your breakfast game? Let’s dive in.
What Are French Toast Muffins?
French toast muffins are everything you love about traditional French toast — rich custardy bread, hints of vanilla and cinnamon, warm and comforting flavors — but baked into portable, muffin-sized servings. Think of them as bread pudding meets muffin, soaked in a creamy egg mixture and baked until lightly crisp on the outside and deliciously soft on the inside.
These muffins are made with cubes of bread (usually slightly stale, which makes them perfect for soaking), whisked together with a mixture of eggs, milk, sugar, and spices. Once baked, they’re golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside — the perfect hand-held breakfast or brunch treat.
What’s great is how adaptable this recipe is. You can play around with spices, use different breads, or toss in extras like berries, nuts, or chocolate chips. The result is always something that smells like a cozy Sunday morning and tastes like a bakery-style treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this recipe is a total breakfast (and snack!) game-changer:
- Quick and easy: No flipping slices on a pan or worrying about burning the toast.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch, refrigerate or freeze, and reheat whenever.
- Kid-friendly: These bite-sized treats are a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Customizable: Add-ins and toppings can be tailored to whatever you’re craving.
Plus, these muffins smell amazing while baking — warm cinnamon and sugar floating through your kitchen? Yes, please.
Ingredients Overview
Core Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break down what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these heavenly muffins. These ingredients are basic, affordable, and likely already in your kitchen:
- Bread: Day-old or slightly stale bread works best. Brioche, challah, French bread, or even sandwich bread can be used.
- Eggs: Essential for that custardy base.
- Milk: Whole milk is ideal for creaminess, but 2% or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk works too.
- Sugar: Both white and brown sugar can be used for sweetness and that classic French toast flavor.
- Vanilla extract: A must-have for warmth and depth.
- Ground cinnamon: For that irresistible spice.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create a golden top.
- Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
These ingredients combine to create a comforting, slightly crisp, and beautifully golden muffin that’s ready to soak up your favorite toppings.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Don’t have exactly what’s listed above? No worries. This recipe is super forgiving:
- Milk alternatives: Try oat, soy, or almond milk.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread if needed — just make sure it’s firm enough to hold up.
- Flavor boosts: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice, or even a splash of orange zest.
- Sweetener swaps: Maple syrup or honey can replace sugar, though they’ll add a different flavor profile.
- Extra add-ins: Blueberries, raisins, chopped apples, pecans, or chocolate chips can be mixed in before baking.
No matter how you tweak it, the base recipe stays reliable and delicious.
Kitchen Tools and Prep Tips
Essential Tools for the Recipe
You don’t need anything fancy to make French toast muffins — just a few kitchen staples:
- Muffin tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin is perfect.
- Mixing bowls: One for the egg mixture, one for the bread.
- Whisk: To blend your custard smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precision makes perfect.
- Non-stick spray or muffin liners: Helps the muffins release easily.
Optional but helpful:
- Cooling rack: For letting the muffins cool without getting soggy bottoms.
- Ice cream scoop: Makes portioning the mixture into muffin cups a breeze.
Prep Tips for Best Results
Here’s how to make your French toast muffins flawless every time:
- Use slightly stale bread: Fresh bread can turn mushy. Let it sit out overnight if needed.
- Cube the bread evenly: Smaller, uniform cubes soak better and cook evenly.
- Don’t skimp on soak time: Letting the bread absorb the egg mixture (at least 10-15 minutes) ensures every bite is rich and custardy.
- Grease well: Muffins can stick, so either line your pan or grease it generously.
- Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the oven during the last few minutes — they should be golden but still soft in the center.
These little tips make a big difference in texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Base
Start by cutting your bread into bite-sized cubes — around 1-inch pieces work great. You’ll need about 5-6 cups in total, depending on the type of bread. Place the cubes in a large mixing bowl.
Using slightly stale bread is key. It holds up better and absorbs the custard without getting too soggy. If your bread is fresh, just pop the cubes in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 10-15 minutes to dry them out a bit. Let them cool before using.
At this stage, if you’re planning to add any mix-ins like berries or nuts, go ahead and toss them in with the bread. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture
Now, it’s time to whip up that rich, custard-like base that gives French toast muffins their signature flavor. In a separate large mixing bowl, crack 4 large eggs and whisk them until the yolks and whites are fully combined. This helps create a smooth, velvety texture in your custard.
Next, pour in 1½ cups of milk. Whole milk is best for richness, but 2% or a dairy-free alternative like oat milk also works well. Then, add in:
- ½ cup of sugar (you can split it between white and brown sugar for extra depth)
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
Whisk all these ingredients together until smooth. The sugar should dissolve and the cinnamon should be evenly distributed — this ensures your muffins are sweet and flavorful in every bite.
Want to elevate the flavor even more? Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of maple syrup for that “wow” factor. These little touches can make your muffins taste like they came straight from a bakery.
Once your egg mixture is ready, you’re almost set to bring it all together.
Step 3: Combine and Let It Soak
Pour the egg mixture slowly and evenly over the bread cubes in your first mixing bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss and fold everything together, making sure each cube gets coated with that creamy, spiced goodness.
Here’s the key: let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This soak time allows the bread to absorb all the flavors and moisture, turning it into a soft, custardy texture that holds up perfectly when baked.
While it’s soaking, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin. You can use non-stick spray or line each cup with parchment muffin liners.
Before scooping the mixture into the tin, give it one last gentle stir to ensure everything is evenly soaked and no dry pockets remain.
Then, use a spoon or ice cream scoop to portion the mixture into the muffin cups. Fill them all the way to the top — don’t worry, they won’t puff up too much. If you want a crispy, caramelized top, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on each muffin before they go into the oven.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place your filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean and the muffins have puffed up slightly.
Be careful not to overbake — you want the inside to stay soft and moist, like a custard or bread pudding. Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5–10 minutes. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to remove.
After that, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to finish cooling. You can serve them warm or at room temperature — either way, they’re incredibly delicious. If you made a large batch, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 300°F.
Toppings and Serving Ideas
These muffins are fantastic on their own, but why not take them to the next level with some tasty toppings?
Classic Toppings That Pair Perfectly
Here are a few tried-and-true toppings that pair beautifully with the warm, cinnamon-rich flavors of your muffins:
- Maple syrup: Drizzle a little over the top for that classic French toast taste.
- Powdered sugar: A light dusting gives a sweet, bakery-style finish.
- Butter: Melt a pat of butter on a warm muffin for rich, comforting flavor.
- Fresh berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a juicy, tart contrast.
- Whipped cream: Add a dollop for a light, creamy topping — great for a special brunch.
For even more indulgence, try a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. It turns your breakfast muffin into a dessert-worthy treat!
Creative Ways to Serve French Toast Muffins
Want to think outside the box? Here are some creative serving ideas to wow your family or guests:
- Brunch platter: Serve your muffins alongside eggs, and fruit for a well-rounded meal.
- Mini breakfast sandwiches: Slice the muffins in half and stuff with cream cheese, or fruit.
- French toast muffin casserole: Place leftover muffins in a baking dish, drizzle with a bit of extra custard, and bake for 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
- Holiday twist: Add dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive flair during the holidays.
These muffins are versatile, portable, and full of flavor — you really can’t go wrong.
Storage Tips and Reheating
How to Store Your Muffins for Later
French toast muffins are perfect for making ahead, so you can enjoy a quick breakfast all week. After baking, allow your muffins to cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag.
Here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: Store for up to 2 days in a sealed container. Ideal if you’ll eat them soon.
- Refrigerator: Keep for up to 4–5 days in the fridge. Make sure the container is airtight to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, place muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen.
Reheating Like a Pro
To enjoy that fresh-baked taste again, here are some easy reheating methods:
- Microwave: Place one muffin on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 20–30 seconds.
- Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
- Air fryer: Reheat at 300°F for about 4–6 minutes for a slightly crispier finish.
A little pat of butter or drizzle of maple syrup after reheating will bring them right back to life.
Making It Kid-Friendly
Fun Variations for Little Ones
French toast muffins are a favorite with kids, and it’s super easy to customize them for picky eaters or add a bit of fun:
- Mini muffins: Use a mini muffin pan for tiny, toddler-sized portions.
- Add-ins: Try mini chocolate chips, diced apples, or rainbow sprinkles mixed in with the bread cubes.
- Shapes: Cut the bread into fun shapes using small cookie cutters before soaking in the custard.
- DIY topping station: Let kids top their muffins with syrup, fruit, or whipped cream for a fun morning activity.
Since they’re easy to hold and not too messy, these muffins also make great lunchbox treats or after-school snacks.
Making It Healthier for Kids
If you’re aiming for a healthier version:
- Use whole wheat bread for extra fiber.
- Cut back on sugar and let the toppings add sweetness.
- Swap milk for a plant-based version with added calcium and vitamin D.
Still fun, still tasty — and just a bit better for them.
French Toast Muffins for Special Occasions
Holiday Brunches and Festive Gatherings
Whether it’s Christmas morning, Easter brunch, or a birthday breakfast, French toast muffins make a perfect centerpiece. They’re easy to prep the night before and pop into the oven while everyone’s waking up.
Try these special twists:
- Pumpkin spice: Add pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice in fall.
- Cranberry orange: Stir in dried cranberries and a touch of orange zest.
- Red velvet: A little cocoa powder and food coloring makes these visually stunning.
You can even dress them up with icing drizzles, caramel sauce, or cinnamon butter to impress your guests.
Bridal Showers, Baby Showers & More
French toast muffins are also a hit at showers, buffets, and potlucks. They’re pretty, easy to eat without utensils, and universally loved. Arrange them on a tiered cake stand with powdered sugar and fresh fruit for a classy touch.
Troubleshooting Common Mistakes
Why Your Muffins Might Turn Out Wrong (And How to Fix It)
If your muffins didn’t turn out quite right the first time, don’t worry. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them:
- Too dry: This can happen if the bread wasn’t soaked long enough or baked too long. Make sure your bread has absorbed enough custard and avoid overbaking.
- Too soggy: Usually caused by too much milk or underbaking. Try reducing the milk slightly next time or increase baking time by a few minutes.
- Sticking to the pan: Use parchment liners or non-stick spray generously. Let them cool slightly before removing from the pan.
- No flavor: Don’t skimp on the vanilla, cinnamon, or salt — these are key to making the flavor pop.
The good news is: even imperfect French toast muffins are still pretty tasty!
Final Thoughts
French toast muffins combine the comfort of a classic breakfast with the ease of grab-and-go baking. They’re warm, sweet, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting brunch, or looking for a quick weekday treat, these muffins are a winning recipe every time.
They’ve got that “just like Grandma’s kitchen” flavor with the convenience of modern-day baking. Once you try them, don’t be surprised if they become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your muffin tin and get baking — your future self will thank you.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make French toast muffins overnight?
Yes! Soak the bread in the custard mixture, cover the bowl, and refrigerate overnight. Just scoop into the muffin pan and bake fresh in the morning.
Q2: What’s the best bread to use?
Brioche or challah are top choices for their richness, but any slightly stale bread works great — even gluten-free varieties.
Q3: How can I make them dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free milk like almond or oat, and skip the butter or use a vegan version. They’ll still taste amazing.
Q4: Can I freeze these muffins?
Absolutely. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy.
Q5: Can I add fruit to the recipe?
Definitely! Blueberries, chopped apples, or bananas all make great mix-ins. Just stir them in before baking.
Evan Lewis is the Head and chief editor of Indoorguider. By profession, he is a MasterChef in a five-star restaurant based in California, and by hobby he is a DIY man. Evan joined as a chef after completing a Diploma in professional cooking from USA. Besides this profession, he’s a researcher and hobbyist blogger and DIY expert. He loves discovering new things, researching them, and sharing them with people who need that information. Most of his time as a chef is spent with different kitchen utensils. He already shares his knowledge and experience with various kitchen tools, utensils, and food blogging and DIY stuff. This time he decided to write about one of the most needed kitchen tools and kitchen appliances. Therefore, he created this site, Indoorguider, and shared his experience, knowledge, and research results with people who have less knowledge about this tool. As a MasterChef of a five-star restaurant, Evan Lewis is not only experienced in cooking. He’s also experienced with different kitchen utensils, tools, and equipment. Besides, cooking he’s a hobbyist blogger. He does a lot of research on different kitchen tools for his blog and writes about them to help others, here at IndoorGuider. He shares his experience, knowledge, and research results for the benefit of people seeking different tools and cooking steps, tips, and recipes. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555977246806 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evanlewis9177/ Quora: Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/EvanLewisOfficial/ Pinterest: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-lewis-1157132b8/ Threads: Twitter: https://twitter.com/EvanLewis5656
