Cinnamon French Toast Bites Recipe

If you have a soft spot for nostalgic breakfasts stuffed with warmth and sweetness, you are going to fall head over heels for these Cinnamon French Toast Bites. These little golden cubes pack all the comforting flavors of classic French toast into delightful bite-sized morsels that are perfect for sharing, snacking, or indulging solo. Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and dusted with a cinnamon-sugar coating that gives each bite a cozy hug, Cinnamon French Toast Bites are the ultimate way to transform simple ingredients into a breakfast experience you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cinnamon French Toast Bites comes from a handful of staple ingredients that are easy to find and work together harmoniously to deliver flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color. Each component plays its part, whether it’s the fluffy eggs that bind, the cinnamon-sugar that sweetens and spices, or the butter that browns everything to perfection.

• 4 thick slices of slightly stale white bread: Slightly stale bread soaks the custard without falling apart, making perfect, firm bites.
• 2 large eggs: These provide richness and help bind the ingredients together for that custardy texture.
• 1/4 cup milk: Lightens the egg mixture for a tender crumb and adds just the right touch of moisture.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 1/4 cup white sugar: Sweetens the dish and caramelizes beautifully when cooking.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder: Adds that warm, inviting spice aroma that defines these bites.
• 3 tbsp butter, separated: One portion for cooking, one for finishing to create that rich, golden crust.
• Maple syrup to serve: Pure maple syrup is essential for dipping these bites and elevating the flavor to breakfast bliss.

How to Make Cinnamon French Toast Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Cubes

Start by cutting the crust off your slightly stale bread slices, then cut each slice into 9 equal cubes. This size is perfect for quick cooking and easy eating. Using stale bread is key as it holds the custard better, preventing sogginess and giving you those satisfyingly crispy edges.

Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt. This combo creates the custardy base that saturates the bread cubes, making them soft on the inside while cooking to a crispy outer layer.

Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar

In a shallow bowl, combine the sugar with the cinnamon powder. This simple mixture is what you’ll be tossing the cooked bread cubes in to give them that classic Cinnamon French Toast Bites sparkle and sweet coating.

Step 4: Heat the Butter

Melt 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Be sure not to let the butter brown, as you want it to cook the bread cubes evenly and create a golden crust without any burnt taste. This step ensures the perfect “sauté” for your bites.

Step 5: Cook Half the Bread Cubes

Quickly toss half of the bread cubes in the egg mixture, then use your hands to gently shake off any excess. Place them in the hot buttered pan and use a wooden spoon to stir and sauté until browned all around, about 2 to 3 minutes. This quick cooking seals in moisture and crisps the cubes perfectly.

Step 6: Coat the Cooked Bites

Remove the toasted bread cubes from the pan and immediately toss them in your cinnamon sugar bowl. This step ensures every surface of the cubes is sweet, spiced, and incredibly flavorful. Transfer the coated bites to a plate to keep warm.

Step 7: Repeat for the Remaining Cubes

Repeat the cooking and coating steps with your remaining bread cubes. Using fresh butter if needed helps maintain the golden color and adds more richness through the batches.

Step 8: Serve with Maple Syrup

Serve these irresistible Cinnamon French Toast Bites immediately, accompanied by a generous drizzle or a small bowl of maple syrup for dipping. The syrup takes them from sweet to spectacular, giving you that classic breakfast duo everyone loves.

How to Serve Cinnamon French Toast Bites

Garnishes

Add a personal touch with garnishes like fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. These little extras not only brighten the presentation but also introduce complementary flavors and textures to the Cinnamon French Toast Bites.

Side Dishes

Pair these bites with crispy bacon, sausage links, or even a simple fruit salad for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch feast. The sweet cinnamon-sugar profile of the bites balances perfectly with savory sides, creating a satisfying contrast you won’t forget.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond a plate: serve your Cinnamon French Toast Bites skewered on sticks as fun finger food for brunch parties, or layer them in parfait glasses with yogurt and granola for a playful twist. These versatile bites shine in both casual and elegant settings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Cinnamon French Toast Bites, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, although they are really best enjoyed fresh and warm.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover bites by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps them from sticking and preserves their texture for up to one month.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated bites in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! While white bread is classic for Cinnamon French Toast Bites, slightly stale brioche or challah can add richness and a tender crumb, making your bites even more luscious.

What if I don’t have maple syrup?

You can substitute with honey, agave nectar, or even fruit preserves for dipping. Each option adds a different flavor twist but keeps the sweet complement to the bites.

Is it okay to use fresh bread if I don’t have stale bread?

Fresh bread works in a pinch, but it tends to soak up too much egg mixture and can become mushy. To mimic stale bread, you can toast fresh slices lightly before cutting into cubes.

Can I make the cinnamon sugar ahead of time?

Yes! The cinnamon sugar keeps well stored in an airtight container for weeks. Making it ahead saves time and ensures a quick assembly when cooking your Cinnamon French Toast Bites.

Are Cinnamon French Toast Bites suitable for kids?

Definitely. These bite-sized treats are easy for little hands to enjoy and can be made less sweet by adjusting the sugar for a kid-friendly breakfast or snack.

Final Thoughts

If you love cozy breakfasts with a sweet, nostalgic twist, Cinnamon French Toast Bites are a must-try. Their crispy edges, tender centers, and that perfect cinnamon-sugar crunch make them irresistible morning companions. Once you make these little gems, I promise you’ll be finding new excuses to whip up Cinnamon French Toast Bites for family, friends, and yourself!

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