Cinnamon Roll French Toast Muffins: A Sweet and Satisfying Breakfast Treat

A Fun and Flavorful Fusion of Breakfast Favorites

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Muffins are a delightful mashup of two breakfast classics. Imagine the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls combined with the eggy, custardy goodness of French toast, all baked into individual muffin form. This recipe takes day-old bread, soaks it in a rich custard, tops it with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and bakes it to golden perfection. These muffins are perfect for a weekend brunch, a holiday breakfast, or any time you’re craving a sweet and satisfying treat. They’re also a great way to use up leftover bread.

A Recipe That Turns Leftover Bread into a Special Treat

I’m always looking for creative ways to use up leftover bread, and these Cinnamon Roll French Toast Muffins are one of my favorite solutions. The first time I made them, I had a few slices of stale bread that were begging to be repurposed. I was craving something sweet and comforting, and the idea of combining cinnamon rolls and French toast seemed like the perfect solution. The result was even better than I’d imagined! The muffins were soft and custardy on the inside, with a sweet and crispy cinnamon-sugar topping. They were an instant hit with my family, and they’ve become a regular weekend treat in our house. They are also a great dish to take to a brunch potluck.

Ingredient Insights: Building Flavor and Texture in Every Muffin

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make these muffins so delicious:

For the Muffins:

• Day-Old Bread (4 cups, cubed): Provides the base for the muffins.
  • Tip: Using day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard mixture better than fresh bread.
  • Variety: While the recipe doesn’t specify, you can use a variety of breads like challah, brioche, white, or whole wheat.
• Large Eggs (4): Create the rich, custardy texture of French toast.
• Whole Milk (1 cup): Adds moisture and richness to the custard.
• Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Elevates the richness and creates a luxurious texture.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the custard base.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Provides the signature cinnamon roll flavor.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Creates a sweet and crunchy topping.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Reinforces the cinnamon flavor throughout the muffin.
• Melted Butter (2 tablespoons): Helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere to the muffins and adds a rich, buttery flavor.

Essential Equipment: Tools for Muffin Making

• 12-Cup Muffin Tin: For baking the individual muffins.
• Large Mixing Bowl: For whisking together the custard mixture.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Whisk: For combining the custard ingredients.
• Knife or Bread Knife: For cubing the bread.
• Pastry Brush (Optional): For brushing the melted butter over the muffins.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Cinnamon Roll French Toast Muffin Bliss

Ingredients with Measurements

For the Muffins:

• 4 cups day-old bread, cubed
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Creating the Perfect Size

1. Cube Bread: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes. If you don’t have day-old bread, you can dry out fresh bread by placing the cubes on a baking sheet and toasting them for about 5 minutes in the oven, but make sure to not brown them.

2. Make the Custard: The Rich and Flavorful Base

1. Whisk Eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs until they are well beaten and slightly frothy.
2. Add Milk and Cream: Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream. Whisk until combined.
3. Incorporate Sugar, Vanilla, and Cinnamon: Add the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to the egg mixture. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are well incorporated.

3. Soak the Bread: Infusing with Flavor

1. Add Bread Cubes: Add the cubed bread to the custard mixture in the large bowl.
2. Stir Gently: Gently stir the bread cubes into the custard, making sure all the pieces are evenly coated.
3. Soak: Let the bread sit in the custard mixture for at least 10 minutes. This allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid, resulting in a moist and flavorful muffin.

4. Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin: Getting Ready to Bake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease Muffin Tin: Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Alternatively, you can line the muffin cups with paper liners.

5. Fill the Muffin Tin: Even Distribution

1. Divide Mixture: Evenly divide the soaked bread mixture among the prepared muffin cups.
2. Press Down: Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to lightly press down on the mixture in each cup, compacting it slightly.

6. Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping: A Sweet and Crunchy Layer

1. Combine Sugar and Cinnamon: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
2. Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a separate small bowl, or in the microwave.
3. Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the top of each muffin with the melted butter, then generously sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top, coating it evenly.

7. Bake the Muffins: Achieving Golden-Brown Perfection

1. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven.
2. Baking Time: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Tip: The muffins should be set around the edges and just slightly soft in the center.

8. Cool and Serve: Enjoying Your Creation

1. Cool in Pan: Allow the muffins to cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before attempting to remove them. This helps them set and prevents them from falling apart.
2. Transfer to Wire Rack: Carefully transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Serve Warm or Room Temperature: These muffins are delicious served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
4. Optional Drizzle: If desired, drizzle with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a cream cheese glaze just before serving.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Success

• Muffins Too Dry:
  • Problem: The muffins are dry and crumbly.
  • Solutions: Make sure not to overbake the muffins. Use day-old bread, and ensure it soaks up enough of the custard mixture.
• Muffins Soggy:
  • Problem: The muffins are too soggy or wet.
  • Solutions: Use day-old bread, which absorbs liquid better. Don’t soak the bread for too long in the custard. Make sure not to add too much liquid to the custard mixture.
• Topping Not Sticking:
  • Problem: The cinnamon-sugar topping isn’t adhering to the muffins.
  • Solutions: Make sure to brush the tops with melted butter before sprinkling on the topping. Press the topping gently onto the muffins.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Muffins

• Add Fruit: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped apples, berries, or other fruit into the batter for added flavor and moisture.
• Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the batter or the topping.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter or the topping for a warmer flavor.
• Cream Cheese Swirl: Swirl in a dollop of sweetened cream cheese into the batter before baking for a cheesecake-like twist.
• Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over the cooled muffins for extra maple flavor.
• Different Bread: Use challah, brioche, or cinnamon-raisin bread instead of plain white bread.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Treat for Any Time of Day

• Breakfast: A perfect way to start your day, especially on weekends.
• Brunch: Serve these muffins as part of a larger brunch spread, alongside savory dishes like quiches or egg casseroles.
• Snack: A satisfying and delicious snack for any time of day.
• Dessert: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.

Pairing Recommendations: Drinks and Sides

• Drinks:
  • Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee is a classic pairing for these muffins.
  • Tea: A warm cup of black tea or a spiced chai tea complements the cinnamon flavor.
  • Milk: A cold glass of milk is a great choice, especially for kids.
  • Apple Cider: Pairs well with the cinnamon and optional apple variations.
• Sides:
  • Fresh Fruit: A bowl of fresh berries or other seasonal fruit adds a refreshing touch.
  • Yogurt: A dollop of plain or vanilla yogurt provides a creamy contrast.
  • Bacon or Sausage: For a more substantial breakfast, serve alongside your favorite breakfast meat.

Nutritional Information: A Sweet and Satisfying Treat

Per serving (1 muffin, approximate, will vary based on size and specific ingredients): Calories: 280-320, Fat: 12-15g, Carbohydrates: 35-40g, Protein: 5-7g. (Note: This is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used).

Print

Comprehensive FAQ: Your Cinnamon Roll French Toast Muffin Questions Answered

• Q: Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
  • A: Yes, you can bake the muffins a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also assemble the muffins (without the topping) a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping and bake as directed when ready to serve.
• Q: How do I store leftover muffins?
  • A: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.  
• Q: Can I freeze these muffins?
  • A: Yes, you can freeze the baked muffins for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
• Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
  • A: Yes, challah, brioche, or even a sturdy whole wheat bread can be used.
• Q: Can I use a different type of milk?
  • A: Yes, you can use 2% milk, almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk alternative you prefer.
• Q: What if I don’t have a muffin tin?
  • A: You can bake the mixture in a greased 8×8 inch baking dish. The baking time may need to be adjusted.
• Q: Can I add other spices to the topping?
  • A: Yes, feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or ginger to the cinnamon-sugar topping.
• Q: Can I make these muffins without the egg?
  • A: You can try using an egg substitute like a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water), but the texture may be slightly different.
• Q: Can I make these muffins vegan?
  • A: You would need to use a vegan egg substitute, vegan butter, and plant-based milk to make these muffins vegan.
• Q: How do I make the muffins extra moist?
  • A: Make sure the bread soaks up the custard, and do not over bake.
• Q: Can I use a different type of sugar for the topping?
• A: Yes, you can use brown sugar or a combination of brown and granulated sugar for the topping.
• Q: Can I double this recipe?
• A: Yes, this recipe can be easily doubled. Just use two muffin tins.