These French Toast Muffin Cups are the perfect grab-and-go breakfast with all the classic flavors of French toast packed into a muffin-sized bite. Crispy on the edges and soft in the center, they’re easy to make, customizable, and kid-friendly. Ideal for busy mornings, brunch spreads, or meal prep!

ingredients

Best French Toast Muffin Cups for a Quick and Easy Breakfast

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

bread (day-old or slightly stale works best)
eggs
milk
heavy cream (optional for richness)
granulated sugar
brown sugar
vanilla extract
ground cinnamon
salt
butter (melted, for greasing or drizzling)
maple syrup (for serving)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.

Cut the bread into small cubes and set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream (if using), granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.

Gently fold the bread cubes into the egg mixture, making sure all pieces are well coated. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to soak.

Scoop the mixture evenly into the muffin cups, gently pressing down to pack them in.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and slightly crisp.

Let cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 12 muffin cups.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Soaking time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

Add chopped fruits like apples, berries, or bananas for extra flavor.
Mix in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for texture.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or a cinnamon-sugar topping before baking.
Use brioche or challah for a richer version.
Add a bit of orange zest or nutmeg for a warm spice twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave for 20–30 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes.
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread?

Yes, but day-old or slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better without becoming mushy.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh in the morning.

Are they freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze them after baking and cooling. Wrap individually or store in a freezer-safe bag.

What kind of bread is best?

Brioche, challah, or French bread work wonderfully for a rich and custardy texture.

Can I make them dairy-free?

Yes, use a non-dairy milk and skip or substitute the heavy cream and butter with plant-based options.

Can I make them sweetener-free?

Omit the sugars or use a sugar substitute if desired, though they may be less caramelized.

Do they puff up in the oven?

Yes, slightly. They settle a bit as they cool.

Can I use muffin liners?

It’s better to grease the pan directly to help the edges crisp up, but liners work for easy cleanup.

Do I have to let the bread soak?

Letting it soak ensures an even texture, but if in a hurry, a quick mix-and-fill still works.

Are these good for kids?

Yes, they’re fun, bite-sized, and easy to customize with kid-friendly add-ins.

Conclusion

French Toast Muffin Cups are a smart solution for busy mornings, combining comfort, flavor, and convenience into one tidy package. Whether you’re prepping breakfast for the week or hosting brunch, these little cups are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.