Introduction
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious, these Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are the perfect treat! They combine the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the soft, custardy texture of French toast – all in a convenient muffin form.
Unlike traditional French toast, these muffins require no flipping on the stovetop and can be made ahead for busy mornings. Whether you’re making them for a weekend brunch, a special occasion, or just a sweet treat with your coffee, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
In this article, we’ll cover:
✔ The best ingredients for rich, flavorful muffins
✔ Step-by-step baking instructions for a perfect texture
✔ Storage and reheating tips to keep them fresh
✔ Variations like gluten-free and dairy-free options
✔ Serving ideas to make them even more delicious
Let’s dive in and make the best Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins ever!
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
To make the best Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins, you need the right combination of ingredients to achieve a soft, custardy interior with a crispy cinnamon-sugar coating. Below, we’ll break down everything you need for both the muffin base and the cinnamon sugar topping.
Key Ingredients for the Muffins
These muffins are inspired by classic French toast but baked in a handheld, mess-free form. Choosing the right ingredients will ensure fluffy, flavorful muffins with the perfect texture.
1. Bread – The Foundation of the Muffins
The type of bread you use is crucial to achieving the best results. Here’s what works best:
✅ Brioche or Challah – These rich, slightly sweet breads soak up the custard mixture beautifully without becoming mushy.
✅ French Bread or Texas Toast – Sturdier than regular white bread, helping the muffins hold their shape.
✅ Day-Old or Slightly Stale Bread – This prevents the muffins from turning soggy. Fresh bread absorbs too much liquid and may fall apart.
❌ Avoid: Thin, soft sandwich bread – It tends to break down too quickly in the custard mixture.
2. Custard Mixture – The Flavor and Moisture
Just like traditional French toast, these muffins rely on a rich egg-based custard to soak into the bread cubes before baking. Here’s what you’ll need:
🥚 Eggs (3 large) – Acts as a binder and helps create the French toast texture.
🥛 Milk or Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Milk provides a lighter texture, while heavy cream makes the muffins extra rich.
🍯 Sugar (¼ cup) – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
🌿 Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
🌎 Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – The signature spice of this recipe!
🧈 Melted Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds moisture and helps achieve that golden, slightly crisp texture.
💡 Pro Tip: Want a richer flavor? Substitute half-and-half for the milk!
Cinnamon Sugar Topping Essentials
A French toast muffin isn’t complete without a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping that gives it a crisp, caramelized coating. Here’s what you’ll need:
🥄 Granulated Sugar (½ cup) – The classic choice for the sweet coating.
🥄 Ground Cinnamon (1 tbsp) – The perfect amount for warm, cozy flavor.
🧈 Melted Butter (3 tbsp) – Helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the muffins and adds richness.
💡 Variation Idea: Try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, it’s time to start making these delicious, fluffy, and crispy Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins! Follow this step-by-step guide to get the best texture and flavor every time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3️⃣ If using paper liners, lightly spray them with oil to help the muffins release easily after baking.
💡 Pro Tip: Greasing the muffin tin directly creates a crispier exterior compared to using paper liners.
Step 2: Cube the Bread
1️⃣ Cut day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, let it sit out for a few hours to dry slightly.
2️⃣ Place the bread cubes into a large mixing bowl.
💡 Why Use Day-Old Bread? Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture without becoming too soggy, giving the muffins the perfect texture.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
1️⃣ In a separate medium bowl, whisk together:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
2️⃣ Whisk until smooth and well combined.
💡 For a stronger cinnamon flavor, add an extra ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg!
Step 4: Soak the Bread in Custard
1️⃣ Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the mixing bowl.
2️⃣ Gently stir until all pieces are coated, but be careful not to break the bread apart.
3️⃣ Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes so the bread can fully absorb the custard.
💡 Tip: The longer the bread soaks, the softer and more custard-like the muffins will be!
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
1️⃣ Use a spoon or measuring cup to scoop the soaked bread mixture into the prepared muffin tin.
2️⃣ Fill each cup to the top, pressing down gently to compact the mixture.
💡 For a crispier top, drizzle a little extra melted butter over each muffin before baking!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
1️⃣ Place the muffin tin on the middle rack of the preheated oven.
2️⃣ Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 22–25 minutes, or until:
- The tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- A toothpick inserted into a muffin comes out clean.
3️⃣ Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
💡 For extra crispiness, let the muffins sit in the warm oven with the door slightly open for an additional 5 minutes before removing them.
The Secret to the Best Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Now that your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are baked to golden perfection, it’s time to add the finishing touch—a buttery, crispy cinnamon sugar coating that makes these muffins irresistible!
In this section, you’ll learn:
✔ How to achieve the perfect crispy sugar coating
✔ The best technique for coating the muffins evenly
✔ Alternative toppings for a fun twist
Let’s get started!
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
The classic French toast topping is a simple but powerful combination of butter, sugar, and cinnamon.
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1️⃣ In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon together until well combined.
2️⃣ Set aside for coating the muffins.
💡 Want a deeper flavor? Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a rich, caramel-like coating!
Step 2: Melt the Butter
🧈 Butter Coating:
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
1️⃣ Melt butter in a small bowl in the microwave or on the stovetop.
2️⃣ Let it cool slightly so it’s warm but not too hot.
💡 Why use butter? It helps the cinnamon sugar stick evenly while adding rich flavor and a slight crisp to the outside of the muffins.
Step 3: Coat the Muffins
1️⃣ Work one muffin at a time: Brush or dip the top and sides of each muffin in melted butter.
2️⃣ Roll or sprinkle the muffin in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring an even coating.
3️⃣ Repeat for all muffins and place them back on the wire rack to set.
💡 Want extra crunch? Dip and coat twice for a thicker, crispier sugar crust!
Alternative Toppings for Variation
Want to change things up? Try these fun alternatives:
Topping | How to Use It |
---|---|
Powdered Sugar | Lightly dust muffins for a classic French toast look. |
Maple Glaze | Drizzle with maple syrup mixed with powdered sugar. |
Nutty Crunch | Add chopped pecans or almonds to the cinnamon sugar. |
Chocolate Drizzle | Melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the muffins. |
💡 For a fall-inspired twist, add pumpkin spice to the cinnamon sugar mix!
Storage and Reheating Tips for Maximum Freshness
Now that your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are perfectly baked and coated in a delicious cinnamon sugar topping, you might be wondering:
✔ How do I store them to keep them fresh?
✔ What’s the best way to reheat them without losing their texture?
✔ Can I freeze them for later?
This section will cover everything you need to know to keep your muffins soft, flavorful, and crispy whenever you’re ready to enjoy them!
How to Store Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
Short-Term Storage (1-2 Days)
If you plan to eat the muffins within a day or two, store them at room temperature in an airtight container.
✅ Best Method: Place muffins in a container with a paper towel underneath to absorb excess moisture.
✅ Keep the lid slightly open if you live in a humid area to prevent sogginess.
Shelf Life: 1–2 days at room temperature.
Refrigeration (Up to 5 Days)
For longer freshness, store the muffins in the refrigerator.
1️⃣ Place muffins in an airtight container.
2️⃣ If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
3️⃣ Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Downside: Refrigeration can make the muffins slightly drier. But don’t worry—we’ll cover the best reheating methods to fix that!
Shelf Life: Up to 5 days in the fridge.
How to Freeze Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
These muffins freeze beautifully, making them a great make-ahead breakfast option!
1️⃣ Let muffins cool completely before freezing.
2️⃣ Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
3️⃣ Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
4️⃣ Label with the date.
Shelf Life: Up to 3 months in the freezer.
For extra freshness, freeze muffins without the cinnamon sugar topping and coat them after reheating for a just-baked taste!
Best Ways to Reheat French Toast Muffins
Reheating these muffins correctly is key to maintaining their soft center and crispy exterior. Here’s how:
Oven or Toaster Oven (Best Method)
✅ Preheat to 325°F (160°C).
✅ Place muffins on a baking sheet.
✅ Heat for 8-10 minutes (or 12-15 minutes if frozen).
Why this works: The oven keeps the muffins crispy on the outside while warming them evenly inside.
Air Fryer (Fast & Crispy Method)
✅ Set the air fryer to 325°F (160°C).
✅ Place muffins inside (no overcrowding).
✅ Heat for 3-5 minutes.
Perfect for a quick reheat with a crispy sugar topping!
Microwave (Quick But Less Crispy)
✅ Place muffins on a microwave-safe plate.
✅ Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds (30-40 seconds if frozen).
Downside: The microwave can make the muffins soft instead of crispy.
Fix this by toasting them for 1-2 minutes after microwaving!
Variations and Substitutions for French Toast Muffins
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are delicious as they are, but why not add a fun twist? Whether you need a gluten-free or dairy-free version, want to boost the flavor, or simply love experimenting, this section will cover creative ways to customize your muffins!
1. Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Options
Want to make these muffins more diet-friendly? Here’s how to tweak the recipe while keeping them just as delicious.
Gluten-Free Variation
✔ Use gluten-free bread – Look for thicker slices like gluten-free brioche or challah for the best texture.
✔ Check your cinnamon – Some ground cinnamon brands may contain trace gluten—stick to certified gluten-free spices.
Dairy-Free Variation
✔ Swap the milk for:
- Almond milk (for a light, nutty flavor)
- Oat milk (for a creamy texture)
- Coconut milk (for a subtle tropical taste)
✔ Replace butter with:
- Melted coconut oil (gives a slightly sweet flavor)
- Vegan butter (for a traditional buttery taste)
💡 Pro Tip: If making both gluten-free and dairy-free, choose a slightly denser bread so the muffins don’t fall apart!
2. Fun Flavor Twists
Want to elevate the flavor? Try these easy mix-ins and toppings!
Flavor Boosters
✔ Nutmeg or Pumpkin Spice – Add ½ teaspoon to the custard for a warm fall flavor.
✔ Maple Syrup – Swap 2 tbsp sugar for maple syrup in the custard for extra richness.
✔ Espresso Powder – Stir in ½ tsp espresso powder for a subtle coffee kick!
Add-Ins for Extra Texture
✔ Chocolate Chips 🍫 – Mix in ½ cup for a chocolatey twist.
✔ Chopped Nuts 🌰 – Walnuts or pecans add a crunchy contrast.
✔ Raisins or Dried Cranberries 🍇 – Give a chewy, fruity burst of flavor.
Topping Upgrades
✔ Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk).
✔ Top with cream cheese frosting for a cinnamon roll-like twist!
💡 Pro Tip: Want to turn these into apple cinnamon muffins? Stir in ½ cup diced apples before baking!
3. Healthier Alternatives
Looking to lighten up the recipe? Try these better-for-you swaps:
✔ Use whole wheat bread 🍞 instead of white bread for more fiber.
✔ Reduce the sugar by using monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar.
✔ Bake with Greek yogurt – Replace ¼ cup milk with Greek yogurt for extra protein.
Summary of Variations & Substitutions
Modification | What to Swap | Effect on Flavor |
---|---|---|
Gluten-Free | Gluten-free bread | Keeps texture intact |
Dairy-Free | Almond/oat/coconut milk, coconut oil | Slightly different richness |
Healthier Option | Whole wheat bread, less sugar | More fiber, less sweetness |
Fall-Inspired | Pumpkin spice, nutmeg, maple syrup | Warm, cozy flavors |
Chocolate Lovers | Chocolate chips | Sweet and indulgent |
Nutty & Crunchy | Chopped pecans, walnuts | Adds crunch |
Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings

Now that your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins are ready, it’s time to take them to the next level with delicious serving ideas and pairings! Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these muffins go perfectly with a variety of flavors and drinks.
1. Best Ways to Serve Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins
These muffins are already packed with flavor, but a few extra touches can make them even more indulgent!
Classic Breakfast Style
✔ Warm with a drizzle of maple syrup – Just like classic French toast!
✔ Spread with butter or cream cheese – Adds a creamy contrast to the crispy sugar coating.
✔ Dust with powdered sugar – For a bakery-style presentation.
Brunch-Worthy Upgrades
✔ Top with fresh fruit 🍓🍌 – Berries, bananas, or caramelized apples add freshness.
✔ Add a dollop of whipped cream – A light, airy touch for a special treat.
✔ Serve with crispy bacon or sausage – The sweet-and-savory combo is unbeatable!
Dessert-Style Treat
✔ Turn them into mini cinnamon sugar shortcakes – Slice them in half and fill with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
✔ Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce 🍫 – For an extra indulgent twist.
✔ Pair with a scoop of ice cream – Cinnamon or vanilla ice cream complements the flavors perfectly.
💡 Pro Tip: Warm the muffins in the oven for 5 minutes before serving to refresh their crispy texture!
2. Best Drinks to Pair with These Muffins
Pairing the right drink with these muffins enhances the flavors and creates a complete meal. Here are some perfect beverage pairings:
Hot Drinks ☕
✔ Coffee – A bold, slightly bitter coffee balances the sweetness.
✔ Latte or Cappuccino – The creamy milk complements the cinnamon spice.
✔ Chai Tea – The spiced notes of chai perfectly match the muffins.
✔ Hot Chocolate – A cozy pairing for a cold morning!
Cold Refreshing Drinks 🥤
✔ Iced Coffee – Sweetened with a little cinnamon syrup for a flavor boost.
✔ Milk or Almond Milk – A simple, kid-friendly pairing.
✔ Orange Juice – The citrusy brightness cuts through the sweetness.
✔ Vanilla Protein Shake – Turns the muffins into a balanced breakfast option!
💡 For a festive touch, try serving these muffins with warm apple cider during the fall season! 🍏🍂
Summary of Serving Ideas & Pairings
Serving Idea | Why It Works |
---|---|
Drizzle with maple syrup | Enhances the French toast flavor |
Top with whipped cream & berries | Adds freshness and a creamy touch |
Serve with bacon or sausage | Creates a sweet-savory balance |
Dust with powdered sugar | Bakery-style presentation |
Pair with coffee or chai tea | Complements the cinnamon flavor |
Serve with ice cream & caramel | Turns it into a dessert |
FAQs – Answering Common Questions About French Toast Muffins
Before you start baking (or if you’ve already made a batch), you might have some common questions about Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins. Whether it’s about making them ahead, freezing them, or tweaking the recipe, we’ve got you covered!
1. Can I Make These Muffins Ahead of Time?
✅ Yes! You can prepare the muffins ahead in two ways:
1️⃣ Make the batter the night before:
- Mix the custard and bread cubes and refrigerate overnight.
- In the morning, scoop into a muffin tin and bake fresh!
2️⃣ Bake ahead and store:
- Bake the muffins 1-2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container.
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5-7 minutes before serving.
💡 For the freshest taste, coat with cinnamon sugar right before serving!
2. Can I Freeze Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins?
✅ Yes! These muffins freeze very well and make a great make-ahead breakfast option.
🔹 How to Freeze:
1️⃣ Let muffins cool completely before freezing.
2️⃣ Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
3️⃣ Store in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
🔹 How to Reheat from Frozen:
✔ Oven: Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 10-12 minutes.
✔ Air Fryer: Heat at 320°F (160°C) for 5 minutes.
✔ Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-40 seconds (not as crispy).
💡 For the best texture, use the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave!
3. How Can I Make These Muffins More Moist?
If your muffins turned out dry, here’s how to fix it next time:
✔ Use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of milk.
✔ Add 1 extra egg for more richness.
✔ Brush warm muffins with extra melted butter before coating in sugar.
✔ Reduce baking time by 2-3 minutes if they seem overbaked.
💡 Pro Tip: If muffins are already baked and dry, serve them with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream!
4. What’s the Best Bread to Use for These Muffins?
The best bread for French toast muffins is thick and slightly stale to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
✅ Best Choices:
- Brioche (rich and buttery)
- Challah (slightly sweet)
- French Bread (sturdier texture)
- Texas Toast (thick and fluffy)
🚫 Avoid: Soft sandwich bread (too thin and turns mushy).
💡 If using fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours or lightly toast it before using!
5. Can I Use a Different Type of Sugar for the Coating?
✅ Yes! While granulated sugar is traditional, here are some tasty alternatives:
✔ Brown Sugar – Gives a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
✔ Coconut Sugar – A natural, less refined option with a light caramel taste.
✔ Powdered Sugar – A soft, melt-in-your-mouth topping.
✔ Turbinado Sugar – Adds a crispy, crunchy texture.
💡 For an extra indulgent topping, mix sugar with a little ground nutmeg or pumpkin spice!
Conclusion – Why You’ll Love This Recipe!
Congratulations! You now have everything you need to make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins that are perfectly soft, custardy, and coated in a crispy cinnamon sugar topping.
These muffins are:
✔ Easy to make – No flipping required like traditional French toast!
✔ Perfect for meal prep – Store them for quick breakfasts all week.
✔ Customizable – Try different flavors, toppings, or make them gluten-free!
✔ Great for any occasion – Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a holiday brunch, these muffins are a hit.
We hope you give this delicious recipe a try and make it your own! If you do, don’t forget to share your results, experiment with variations, and enjoy every bite.
👉 Now it’s your turn! Have you tried this recipe? Comment below with your favorite variation!