Baked French Toast Muffins

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Indulge in a delightful morning affair with our easy-to-make Baked French Toast Muffins. Bursting with the warm embrace of cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple, these muffins encapsulate the essence of a cozy breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re rushing out the door or hosting a gathering, these individually portioned treats are the ultimate solution for your cravings.

Ingredients:

  • 12 slices of bread
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons Dixie Crystals Brown Sugar (light or dark brown sugar)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon maple extract
  • 1 – 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon (divided)
  • ¼ teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons Dixie Crystals Granulated Sugar
  • Dixie Crystals Powdered Sugar (optional for serving)
  • Maple syrup (optional for serving)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 12-count muffin tin with non-stick spray.
  2. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, maple extract, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
  4. Add the bread to the bowl and stir until evenly coated, ensuring all bread cubes soak up the milk and egg mixture.
  5. Distribute the bread mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin cups.
  6. In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
  7. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the tops of each muffin.
  8. Bake for 20 minutes or until the muffin tops are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
  9. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes, then remove them from the muffin tins.
  10. Optional: Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 4.5g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 11g
  • Protein: 6g

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serve Warm: Enjoy these Baked French Toast Muffins fresh out of the oven for the best taste and texture. The warm, fragrant aroma of cinnamon and maple will tantalize your senses and make every bite a delight.
  2. Top with Toppings: Enhance the flavor and presentation by serving these muffins with a variety of toppings. Drizzle with warm maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness or dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
  3. Pair with Fresh Fruit: Accompany these muffins with a side of fresh berries or sliced fruit for a refreshing contrast. The juicy sweetness of berries or the crispness of apples pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the muffins.
  4. Add a Dollop of Whipped Cream: Elevate your indulgence by adding a dollop of whipped cream on top of each muffin. The creamy texture and airy sweetness of whipped cream complement the muffins beautifully.
  5. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving to restore their warmth and freshness.

Variations:

  1. Fruit Add-Ins: Incorporate diced apples, berries, or bananas into the batter for added sweetness and texture. Fold them in gently before distributing the mixture into muffin cups.
  2. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans, almonds, or walnuts on top of the muffins before baking for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
  3. Chocolate Swirl: Swirl a tablespoon of chocolate hazelnut spread into each muffin cup before adding the batter for a decadent twist on classic French toast.
  4. Savory Option: For a savory variation, omit the cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple extract from the recipe. Instead, add shredded cheese, cooked bacon or sausage, and diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to create savory French toast muffins.
  5. Gluten-Free or Vegan: Use gluten-free bread and dairy-free milk and cream alternatives to make these muffins suitable for gluten-free or vegan diets. Ensure all other ingredients are also vegan-friendly if necessary.
  1. Stuffed Muffins: Create a surprise filling by adding a spoonful of your favorite jam, Nutella, or cream cheese to the center of each muffin before baking. It adds a burst of flavor and a gooey texture when you bite into the muffin.
  2. Citrus Twist: Add a zesty kick to your muffins by incorporating grated orange or lemon zest into the batter. The bright citrus flavor pairs wonderfully with the warmth of cinnamon and maple.
  3. Coconut Paradise: For a tropical twist, mix shredded coconut into the batter or sprinkle it on top of the muffins before baking. It adds a subtle sweetness and a delightful crunch.
  4. Pumpkin Spice Delight: Embrace the flavors of fall by adding pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the batter. These muffins will fill your kitchen with the aroma of autumn and make every bite feel like a cozy hug.
  5. Caramelized Banana: Sauté sliced bananas in butter and brown sugar until caramelized, then fold them into the batter before baking. The caramelized bananas add a rich, caramel flavor and a soft, gooey texture to the muffins.

Experiment with these serving suggestions and variations to customize your Baked French Toast Muffins according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with your additions, these muffins are sure to be a hit at any breakfast or brunch gathering.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe? Yes, you can use your preferred type of bread such as whole wheat, brioche, or challah. Just ensure it’s sliced and slightly stale for the best texture.
  2. Can I make these muffins ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Then, in the morning, simply fill the muffin cups and bake as directed.
  3. Can I freeze these muffins? Yes, these muffins freeze well. Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
  4. Can I substitute the heavy cream with something else? Yes, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative such as coconut milk or almond milk.
  5. Can I omit the maple extract? Yes, you can omit the maple extract if you prefer. The muffins will still have a delicious flavor from the other ingredients.
  6. Can I use different extracts for flavoring? Certainly! Experiment with different extracts such as almond, coconut, or rum for unique flavor variations.
  7. How do I know when the muffins are done baking? The muffins are done when the tops are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, they’re ready.
  8. Can I make mini muffins instead of regular-sized ones? Yes, you can use a mini muffin tin instead. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as they will cook faster.
  9. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your preferences. Keep in mind that reducing the sugar may alter the taste and texture slightly.
  10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified. Additionally, be cautious of cross-contamination if you have a severe gluten allergy.

Elevate your breakfast game with these Baked French Toast Muffins that are as easy to make as they are delicious. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable morning experience. So go ahead, savor the warmth of cinnamon and maple in every bite and make your mornings extraordinary.