If you’re craving a breakfast treat that feels both cozy and indulgent, you have to try this Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe. These muffins capture all the warm, sweet flavors of classic French toast but in an irresistibly portable muffin form. Imagine bites filled with cinnamon-scented sweetness and a tender, soft crumb that’s lightly crisped on the outside thanks to a delightful cinnamon sugar coating. It’s a straightforward recipe that will quickly become your go-to for weekend brunches or whenever you need that special morning pick-me-up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create these mouthwatering cinnamon sugar French toast muffins, you only need a handful of simple ingredients that work beautifully together to deliver amazing flavor and texture. Each component plays its own essential role, from tenderizing to adding sweetness and that perfectly crisp cinnamon sugar finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the muffins, ensuring they’re light yet sturdy enough to hold all that fluffy goodness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the muffins rise just right, making them soft without being dense.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder to create a tender crumb and beautiful texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances the sweet flavors, making every bite more pronounced.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter, creating that perfect subtle sugary note inside the muffins.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture, keeping the muffins soft and flavorful.
- 2 large eggs: Binds everything together and helps with the rise, while adding a slight richness.
- 1 cup milk: Moistens the batter and contributes to that tender crumb we all love in a good muffin.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with warm, sweet undertones that complement the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating): Mixed with cinnamon, it forms the crave-worthy, lightly crunchy coating for the muffins.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating): Brings the signature warm spice flavor, essential for that classic French toast vibe.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating): Ensures the cinnamon sugar sticks beautifully and browns flawlessly on the muffin tops.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly heated when you’re ready to bake. Grease your muffin tin well—this step is crucial because it guarantees your muffins come out effortlessly without sticking to the pan. You want to enjoy every bit of these delicious muffins without fighting to get them out.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar in a large bowl. This ensures everything is evenly distributed, which is key for consistent texture and flavor. The sugar here helps sweeten the muffins from the inside out, while the leavening agents guarantee a lift that’s just right.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend together the melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous. This smooth wet mixture adds moisture, richness, and that lovely vanilla note that complements the warm cinnamon perfectly.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Take care not to overmix; the goal is to combine everything without knocking the air out of the batter. This delicate technique keeps the muffins tender and light. Your batter should be soft and just mixed, ready for that magical oven transformation.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Once your muffins are baked and cooled slightly, sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on top for an added sparkle and crunch that catches the light and the eye. A light dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of maple syrup can take that simple topping into a next-level treat that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
Pairing these muffins with fresh fruit like juicy berries or sliced bananas adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet and spiced muffins. For a savory balance, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausages. This balance makes each bite even more satisfying and creates a full, comforting breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe in a muffin basket lined with a cute linen napkin for an inviting brunch presentation. You could also cut them in half and toast lightly, then add cream cheese or mascarpone alongside a drizzle of honey for a sophisticated twist. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and fresh. They’re perfect for grabbing quickly on busy mornings or as an afternoon snack whenever you need a little burst of cinnamon-sugar happiness.
Freezing
These muffins freeze beautifully! Once cool, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well for up to three months, making them a perfect make-ahead breakfast option for hectic days.
Reheating
To enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe fresh again, simply reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes. This reheating method keeps the outside crisp while warming the muffin tenderly inside, bringing back that just-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but your muffins might be a bit denser. You can also try using half all-purpose and half whole wheat to keep them fluffy but wholesome.
Do these muffins freeze well after baking?
Yes, these muffins freeze wonderfully after baking and cooling completely. Just wrap or store them properly, and when reheated, they’ll taste almost like fresh-baked.
Can I substitute the milk for a dairy-free alternative?
Definitely! Almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk works fine, just keep it unsweetened to control the overall sweetness of the muffins.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover muffins?
Reheating in a toaster oven or standard oven gives the best texture, making the outside crispy and the inside warm without drying the muffins out.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
For sure! Walnuts, pecans, or even mini chocolate chips can be folded into the batter for extra texture and flavor. Just don’t overload the batter to keep the perfect muffin crumb.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with this Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe—it’s a simple yet wonderfully delicious way to brighten up your mornings. Whether you’re making them for a leisurely weekend breakfast or prepping ahead for busy weekdays, these muffins bring warmth, sweetness, and a touch of nostalgia in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try them and share them with the people you love!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delightful Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins that combine the cozy flavors of cinnamon and vanilla in a soft, fluffy muffin perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. These muffins are coated with a buttery cinnamon sugar mixture, offering a deliciously crisp exterior and tender crumb inside.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the muffin tin to ensure the muffins do not stick and bake evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar until well combined to distribute the leavening agents and sugar evenly.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, thoroughly mix the melted unsalted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Fold Wet into Dry: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid over-mixing which can cause tough muffins.
- Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups, filling each about 3/4 full for room to rise.
- Bake Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating: While the muffins bake, mix together the 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Butter Muffins for Coating: When muffins are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for 5 minutes, then brush the tops lightly with 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Immediately after buttering, sprinkle or dip the muffin tops into the cinnamon sugar mixture so the coating sticks well, creating a sweet, crunchy crust.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool completely in the tin or on a rack before serving to let flavors set and prevent crumbling.
Notes
- Ensure not to over-mix the batter to keep muffins tender and fluffy.
- You can substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free option.
- Optional: Add a handful of chopped nuts or raisins for texture variations.
- Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Reheat briefly in the microwave or oven to refresh the coating’s crispness.
