If you love starting your morning with cozy, flavorful bites, you are going to fall head-over-heels for this Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe! Imagine warm cubes of golden, custardy bread, each one perfectly coated in a cinnamon-sugar blanket—that’s what awaits you here. These bites pack all the joys of classic French toast into crunchy, poppable pieces made for sharing (or not!). Whether you’re treating yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is a guaranteed crowd pleaser that feels both nostalgic and delightfully new. Let’s dive into the magic of tiny, sweet breakfasts that make every morning feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about the Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe is how you can turn simple kitchen staples into such a treat. Each ingredient has its own role to play, adding either richness, fluffiness, or that signature cinnamon sparkle.
- Bread: Use thick slices of brioche or Texas toast, cut into chunky 1-inch cubes for the perfect pillowy center and crispy edges.
- Eggs: Large eggs bring structure and that all-important custardy richness to soak every bite.
- Milk: A splash of milk keeps things creamy and soft inside.
- Vanilla Extract: A dash of vanilla takes the flavor from everyday to irresistible.
- Ground Cinnamon: Essential for that warm, spiced sweetness in both the batter and coating.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the egg mixture and gives the final sugary crunch.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a tiny bit brightens all the sweet flavors.
- Butter: A little goes a long way to crisp up every side and add buttery depth.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: A simple mix of sugar and cinnamon brings each bite over the top—don’t skip it!
How to Make Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe
Step 1: Make the Custard Mixture
Start by whisking together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. This mixture will infuse the bread with a gentle sweetness and warm spices. Make sure everything is blended well so every cube of bread gets an even soak.
Step 2: Soak the Bread Cubes
Add your bread cubes to the bowl and gently toss them until each cube is moistened. It’s best to let them rest for 2–3 minutes—just enough time for the bread to absorb the custard, resulting in bites that are tender on the inside and beautifully crisped later.
Step 3: Toast to Perfection
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium and melt your butter. Lay the soaked bread cubes in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd (work in batches if needed). Cook each side for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides achieve that signature crispy, caramelized coating.
Step 4: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar
While those bites are still warm from the pan, mix up your cinnamon sugar in a small bowl, then immediately toss each French toast cube until coated. The sugar will cling to the buttery exterior, wrapping every piece in a sparkly, fragrant finish.
How to Serve Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic and adds a snowy look, while fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream take things to brunchy new heights. And don’t forget a drizzle of warm maple syrup for an extra touch of morning magic.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe with fresh fruit salad, crisp bacon, or creamy Greek yogurt for a complete and colorful breakfast spread. For a special brunch, serve with scrambled eggs or a side of sausage for a satisfying sweet-savory combo.
Creative Ways to Present
Set out skewers or tiny toothpicks for a fun, party-worthy platter, or serve the bites in little paper cones for grab-and-go delight. Creating a DIY toppings bar with fruit, syrups, and spreads lets everyone customize their own bites for a memorable morning feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any bites left (which is honestly rare!), let them cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for about two days and make a wonderful treat for quick breakfasts or midnight snacks.
Freezing
These freeze surprisingly well! Place cooled bites on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Pull out a few at a time for an easy make-ahead breakfast—just reheat and enjoy.
Reheating
To bring back the warm crunch, pop your Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes, or air fry them until heated through and slightly crisp. The microwave works for speed, but a touch of oven heat makes them taste freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While thick-cut bread like brioche or Texas toast yields the fluffiest results, regular sandwich bread will still work; just know the bites will be a bit more compact and less pillowy.
What’s the best way to keep them crisp for a brunch party?
Spread the bites on a baking sheet and keep them in a warm oven (about 200°F) until you’re ready to serve. This keeps them warm and prevents any sogginess.
Can I make the Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe dairy free?
You sure can—swap in your favorite non-dairy milk and use plant-based butter. The results are still a sweet, crispy morning treat!
How do I avoid soggy French toast bites?
Be sure to use slightly stale or day-old bread to help the cubes soak up the custard without falling apart, and don’t let them sit too long in the liquid. Cooking until all sides are deep golden brown also helps lock in the perfect texture.
Can I add other spices or flavors?
Absolutely! A pinch of nutmeg or even a hint of orange zest in the custard mix will add another layer of cozy flavor. Feel free to get creative and make this Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe your own.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to brighten any morning or impress at your next brunch, this Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe is a sure bet. Gather your favorite people, dust off your skillet, and watch these irresistible bites disappear. Your cozy, cinnamon-spiced breakfast adventure awaits!
Print
Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon French Toast Bites are a delightful twist on classic French toast, featuring bite-sized cubes of bread coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture. They are quick and easy to make, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients
French Toast Bites:
- 4 slices thick bread (brioche or Texas toast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the French Toast Bites: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until well combined. Add the bread cubes and toss gently to coat. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to soak.
- Cook the French Toast Bites: In a large non-stick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the soaked bread cubes in a single layer (in batches if needed). Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crisp.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar for coating. Immediately toss the cooked French toast bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.
- Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup, fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
- Best made with day-old bread for better texture.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for extra warmth.
- These can be made ahead and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 260 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
