Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins: A Breakfast Classic Reimagined

I’ve developed these muffins to capture all the beloved flavors of traditional French toast in a convenient, portable form. These delightful breakfast treats combine the warm, comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with a tender, fluffy texture, all topped with a signature cinnamon sugar coating that makes them irresistible.

Why This Recipe Works

The secret to these muffins’ success lies in their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The interior stays moist and tender like classic French toast, while the cinnamon sugar coating provides that characteristic sweet crunch you’d expect from the breakfast favorite.

Ingredients

For the Muffin Batter:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder (15g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (3g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (3g)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (1g)
• 1 cup milk (240ml)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ¼ cup melted butter (60ml)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup cinnamon sugar (100g)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing Your Kitchen

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
3. Gather all ingredients and ensure they’re at room temperature.

Making the Batter

1. Combine dry ingredients:

• Whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl
• Make sure there are no lumps of spices

1. Mix wet ingredients:

• In a separate medium bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract
• Ensure eggs are fully incorporated

1. Combine mixtures:

• Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients
• Fold gently until just combined
• Stop mixing as soon as no dry flour is visible

Baking the Muffins

1. Fill muffin cups:

• Divide batter evenly among prepared muffin cups
• Fill each cup about ⅔ full
• Use an ice cream scoop for even portioning

1. Bake:

• Place in preheated oven
• Bake for 15-18 minutes
• Test with a toothpick – it should come out clean

Adding the Topping

1. Prepare while muffins bake:

• Place cinnamon sugar in a shallow bowl
• Melt butter for brushing

1. Finish muffins:

• Let cool for 5 minutes in the pan
• Remove and brush tops with melted butter
• Roll in cinnamon sugar mixture

Nutritional Information

Per muffin:

• Calories: 185
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 220mg

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins

Pro Tips for Perfect Muffins

• Room temperature ingredients ensure better mixing
• Don’t overmix the batter – some small lumps are okay
• Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even results
• Apply the cinnamon sugar coating while muffins are still warm
• Use fresh spices for the best flavor

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days
• Freeze unfrosted muffins for up to 3 months
• Refresh in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes before serving
• Add topping just before serving for best texture

Serving Suggestions

Serve these muffins:

• Warm for breakfast
• With coffee or tea
• As part of a brunch spread
• For afternoon snacks
• In lunch boxes

Variations

1. Flavor Additions:

• Add ½ cup chopped pecans to batter
• Include ¼ teaspoon cardamom for complexity
• Mix in orange zest for brightness

1. Topping Options:

• Use maple sugar instead of regular sugar
• Add crushed pecans to the sugar mixture
• Drizzle with maple glaze

1. Dietary Adaptations:

• Use plant-based milk for dairy-free version
• Substitute gluten-free flour blend
• Reduce sugar by using monk fruit sweetener

These muffins bring the joy of French toast to your morning in a convenient, portable form that’s perfect for busy days!