Name: Delicious French Toast Muffin Cups for Busy Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Milk (Any type of milk works, including dairy alternatives.); 0.5 cup Granulated Sugar (Can swap with brown sugar for richer flavor.); 4 pieces Eggs (Crucial for binding and structure.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional; increase for a delightful taste.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Can be omitted or swapped with nutmeg.); 4 cups Cubed Bread (Stale croissants are ideal.); 0.25 cup Powdered Sugar (Optional garnish.); to taste Maple Syrup (Optional drizzle when serving.); 0.25 cup Unsalted Butter (Ensure it’s cold for the best crumb.); 0.333 cup Brown Sugar (Can be exchanged for white sugar.); 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free blends can be used.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (A must for cozy taste.); a pinch Salt (Balances the sweetness.)

On a chilly weekend morning, the aroma of freshly baked muffins wafts through the house, waking everyone with whispers of warmth and comfort. These French Toast Muffin Cups are my go-to breakfast when I want to impress while keeping things simple. Perfectly soft on the inside and crowned with a crunchy streusel topping, they are not just delicious but incredibly convenient for busy days. With minimal prep, you can whip up a batch that’s both kid-friendly and a hit at brunch gatherings. Plus, they make excellent use of leftover croissants, turning them into a breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet effortless. What’s not to love? Are you ready to turn your mornings into a delightful experience with these muffin cups?

Why are these muffin cups a breakfast must?

Convenience: These French Toast Muffin Cups are perfect for busy mornings, allowing you to enjoy a classic breakfast treat without fuss. Versatile: Use leftover croissants or any sturdy bread to create a delightful twist on traditional French toast. Kid-Friendly: Kids love the sweet, fluffy texture, making this a fun way to start their day. Make-Ahead: Assemble them the night before for effortless baking in the morning. Flavorful: The combination of cinnamon and streusel elevates the taste to something truly special. While you’re at it, check out my Muffin Tin Mini Quiche for another easy morning option that everyone will enjoy!

French Toast Muffin Cups Ingredients

For the Muffins

Milk – Adds moisture; any type of milk works, including dairy alternatives.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; swap with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Eggs – Crucial for binding and structure; no substitutes available.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; optional, but feel free to increase for a delightful taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; can be omitted or swapped with nutmeg for a different twist.
Cubed Bread – The base for the muffins; stale croissants are ideal, but brioche or challah work as well.
Powdered Sugar – Optional garnish; adds sweetness but can be left out.
Maple Syrup – Optional drizzle when serving, bringing that classic French toast flavor to life.

For the Streusel Topping

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; ensure it’s cold for the best crumb.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and sweetness; can be exchanged for white sugar if desired.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure; gluten-free blends can be used instead.
Ground Cinnamon – Elevates the topping’s flavor; a must for that cozy taste.
Pinch of Salt – Balances the sweetness perfectly.

These French Toast Muffin Cups are not just a delightful treat; they’re a fantastic way to utilize leftover croissants!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Toast Muffin Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the French Toast Muffin Cups bake evenly and develop a lovely golden brown color. While the oven is heating, grab a non-stick muffin tin and give it a light spray with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of milk, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 4 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture should be smooth and well combined, creating a sweet custard base that flavors the muffin cups beautifully.

Step 3: Add Cubed Bread
Gently fold in approximately 4 cups of cubed stale bread or croissants into the egg mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated and soaked evenly, allowing the bread to absorb the sweet custard mixture. The mixture should look rich and aromatic as you prepare it for baking.

Step 4: Fill Muffin Tin
Divide the bread mixture evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ⅓ full. You can use a ladle or a measuring cup for precision. Each cup should be filled to about the same level, ensuring even baking. The custard should ooze between the bread pieces, promising delightful bites.

Step 5: Prepare Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine ¼ cup of cold unsalted butter, ⅓ cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend the ingredients until crumbly. The streusel should resemble coarse crumbs, ready to provide a delicious crunchy topping.

Step 6: Add Topping to Muffins
Sprinkle the prepared streusel topping generously over each filled muffin cup, ensuring a nice covering for each one. This layer will bake up beautifully, offering a delicious contrast to the soft muffin below.

Step 7: Bake Muffin Cups
Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and look for a nice golden brown color and a firm texture. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when they are done baking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the French Toast Muffin Cups to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This cooling period helps them set. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving warm, drizzled with maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired.

Make Ahead Options

These French Toast Muffin Cups are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy mornings! You can assemble the muffin mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the cubed bread with the egg mixture and refrigerate overnight. To maintain the muffins’ delightful texture, ensure the bread is slightly stale, or let fresh bread sit out for a few hours before prepping. If you want to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the unbaked muffin cups for up to 3 months. Just pop them straight into the oven from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time. When it’s time to enjoy, bake until golden brown for the same delicious results with minimal effort!

French Toast Muffin Cups Variations

Feel free to get creative with your French Toast Muffin Cups; the possibilities are endless!

Bread Variety: Swap out croissants for brioche, challah, or even whole grain bread for a nutritious twist.
Add More Spice: Integrate a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to the mix for a lovely warmth that dances on the palate.
Fruity Flair: Toss in fresh blueberries, raspberries, or sliced bananas to the egg mixture for added flavor and a pop of color.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts, adding protein and a delightful crunch to each bite.
Choco-Lover’s Dream: Add chocolate chips to increase sweetness; for a richer flavor, mix in dark chocolate chips.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the streusel topping and gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free: Replace milk with almond milk or coconut milk and use vegan butter for the streusel to create a dairy-free delight.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle caramel sauce on top when serving for a decadent dessert-like experience that feels indulgent.

The French Toast Muffin Cups can become a canvas for your creativity. While you’re tuning them to perfection, don’t forget to explore adding a savory twist, perhaps like my delightful Muffin Tin Mini Quiche. Enjoy your culinary adventures!

What to Serve with French Toast Muffin Cups

Delicious French Toast Muffin Cups are a wonderful way to start your day, and pairing them with the right sides can transform breakfast into a full feast.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful assortment of berries and melons adds a refreshing contrast and complements the muffin’s sweet flavor beautifully.
Crispy Bacon: Salty, crispy bacon balances the sweetness of the muffins and adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for meat lovers!
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy element, enhancing the overall flavor and providing a protein boost.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Elevate the experience by drizzling a little extra maple syrup over your muffins for that authentic French toast feel.
Savory Sausage Links: Juicy, savory sausages contrast the sweet muffins while keeping your breakfast hearty and satisfying. Pair with a touch of mustard for a kick!
Chai Spiced Tea: The aromatic spices in chai echo the cinnamon flavors in the muffins, making for a delightful beverage pairing to round out your meal.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For a decadent touch, serve a side of whipped cream cheese frosting for dipping that enhances the sweet muffin experience.
Nut Butter Spread: A small side of almond or peanut butter adds creaminess and richness, perfect for those who crave a savory note with their sweet breakfast.

Expert Tips for French Toast Muffin Cups

Stale Bread Essential: Use slightly stale bread to prevent soggy muffins; if your bread is fresh, let it sit out overnight for the best results.
Make Ahead: Assemble the muffin cups the night before, keeping them in the fridge, and bake in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast experience.
Mix of Breads: For optimal texture and flavor, consider using a combination of croissants and challah or brioche; this adds richness to your French Toast Muffin Cups.
Avoid Overfilling: Fill each muffin cup only about ⅓ full to allow for proper rising and to prevent overflow while baking.
Check for Doneness: A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean—baking times may vary, so keep a close eye on the muffins.

How to Store and Freeze French Toast Muffin Cups

Fridge: Store French Toast Muffin Cups in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This way, they’ll stay fresh and delicious for your busy mornings.

Freezer: These delightful muffins can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply reheat the muffins in the microwave for about 30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the muffin cups the night before by assembling them in the muffin tin and covering them in the fridge. Bake them fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast!

French Toast Muffin Cups Recipe FAQs

What type of bread should I use for French Toast Muffin Cups?
Absolutely! While stale croissants are my favorite for their buttery richness, you can also use challah or brioche for a delightful texture. If you’re opting for regular bread, ensure it’s slightly stale for the best results.

How should I store French Toast Muffin Cups?
For sure! Keep your French Toast Muffin Cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This way, they stay fresh and ready for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.

Can I freeze these muffin cups?
Yes, you certainly can! To freeze, let your muffin cups cool completely. Then, wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

What if my muffins turn out soggy?
Oh no! If that happens, it usually means the bread wasn’t stale enough. To prevent soggy muffins, use bread that’s at least a day old, or leave fresh bread out overnight to dry out a bit. This will ensure it absorbs the custard without getting mushy.

Can I make these muffin cups ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble your French Toast Muffin Cups the night before. Just cover the muffin tin with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, pop them in the oven for a quick and delicious breakfast.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
For sure! This recipe contains eggs and dairy, so if you’re preparing these for someone with allergies, keep that in mind. You could explore using dairy-free milk and egg substitutes, like flax eggs, but the texture may vary slightly. Always check for any ingredient allergies when serving to others!