When I was a child, Sunday mornings were always special in our home. The scent of cinnamon and freshly baked bread wafting through the house would gently wake us up, signaling that breakfast was going to be something memorable. My mother had a knack for turning simple ingredients into delightful treats, and one of my all-time favorites was her cinnamon sugar French toast. As I grew older and started my own family, I wanted to recreate that magic but with a modern twist. That’s how these Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffin Bites came to be.
These muffin bites combine the best elements of French toast and cinnamon sugar donuts, creating a delicious breakfast treat that’s both nostalgic and innovative. They’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for those leisurely weekends or even as a quick weekday treat if prepared in advance. The warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon paired with a dash of nutmeg and allspice gives these muffin bites a rich and aromatic profile that’s hard to resist.
One thing I love about this recipe is its versatility. While it’s perfect as is, there are a few variations that can add an extra layer of indulgence. For instance, adding a handful of chocolate chips or a dollop of cream cheese in the center of each muffin before baking can elevate them to a whole new level of deliciousness. Alternatively, using different types of bread, like brioche or challah, can impart a richer flavor and a softer texture.
These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffin Bites are a fantastic way to start the day, whether you’re enjoying them with a cup of coffee in the morning sun or sharing them with friends and family during a cozy brunch. They’re not just food; they’re a way to bring a little bit of joy and nostalgia to your breakfast table. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to fill your home with the delightful aroma of these muffin bites. I guarantee they’ll become a favorite in your household, just as they have in mine.
Preparing Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffin Bites
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Ingredients
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla essence
- 4 cups bread cubes
- ⅛ teaspoon allspice, ground
- Dash of nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon + ⅓ cup sugar for topping
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ground
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
Directions
- In a small bowl, mix together the cinnamon and sugar for the topping. Set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, then add milk, sugar, vanilla essence, cinnamon, ground allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Add the bread cubes into the egg mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated.
- Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups. Sprinkle the reserved cinnamon-sugar topping over each muffin.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the tops are lightly golden and set.
- Allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them with a drizzle of syrup!
Storing Suggestions:
Store any leftover muffin bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for about 5-10 minutes.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of bread for these muffin bites?
Yes, you can use any type of bread you prefer. However, denser bread like brioche or challah works best as they soak up the egg mixture well and provide a richer flavor.
Can I prepare the mixture the night before?
Absolutely! You can prepare the egg mixture and soak the bread cubes in it overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the bread to absorb more flavor. Just give it a good stir before spooning into the muffin tin.
What can I serve with these French toast muffin bites?
These muffin bites are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or a side of bacon or sausage for a more complete breakfast.
How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the tin?
Ensure that you thoroughly spray the muffin tin with nonstick spray. Alternatively, you can use muffin liners to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze these muffin bites?
Yes, you can freeze them. Place the cooled muffin bites on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or oven.
Can I add other spices or ingredients to the recipe?
Feel free to customize the recipe to your taste. You can add spices like cardamom or ginger, or mix in ingredients like chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts to create different variations.
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffin Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups cubed bread
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Dash of nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon + ⅓ cup sugar for topping
Instructions
- Combine the cinnamon and sugar for the topping in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, beat the eggs, then add in the milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
- Add the bread cubes to the egg mixture, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
- Spoon the mixture evenly into the muffin tin cups. Sprinkle the reserved cinnamon-sugar topping over each muffin.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and set.
- Let the muffins cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a drizzle of syrup!
