Save Golden cinnamon brown sugar French toast bites are my answer when I crave a cozy breakfast or need a sweet treat fast Imagine fluffy brioche cubes soaked in custard perfectly crisp on the outside and dusted in warm spice They disappear from the platter almost as soon as they hit the table
The very first time I whipped these up was for a snowy weekend breakfast Now my family begs for them on any lazy Sunday or when we have friends over for brunch They always vanish quickly
Ingredients
- Brioche or challah bread cut into cubes: gives that rich flavor and tender inside Choose bread that feels slightly dry for best soak
- Large eggs: provide structure to the custard and help coat each cube completely Look for farm-fresh or free-range eggs if possible for deeper color
- Whole milk: adds creaminess to the mixture and keeps every bite moist Use well-chilled milk for easy whisking
- Granulated sugar: brings just enough subtle sweetness to the base Opt for organic for cleaner taste
- Pure vanilla extract: enhances the aroma and depth of flavor
- Ground cinnamon: is essential for warmth Purchase new or grind yourself for maximum fragrance
- Salt: balances the sweetness and brightens the flavors
- Brown sugar: packs extra caramel notes into the coating Light or dark both work but choose moist clump-free sugar
- Unsalted butter: allows you to control the saltiness and gives the bites their golden crisp crust Try a European-style variety for a little extra luxury
Instructions
- Make the custard:
- Crack the eggs into a medium mixing bowl and pour in the milk Add the granulated sugar vanilla extract cinnamon and salt Whisk the mixture thoroughly until smooth and slightly frothy This ensures even coating on every piece of bread
- Soak the bread cubes:
- Cut the brioche or challah into uniform cubes about one inch each Add all bread cubes to the custard mixture Toss gently with clean hands or a spatula making sure each side gets coated Let them soak for about two to three minutes The bread should be fully moistened but not falling apart
- Prepare the coating:
- In a separate shallow dish stir together the brown sugar and cinnamon with a fork or small whisk Break up any lumps and set the bowl nearby for easy dipping right after cooking
- Pan-fry the cubes:
- Melt one tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat When the butter foams and smells nutty add half the soaked bread in a single layer Cook the cubes turning each one frequently with a spatula until all sides are golden brown and slightly crisp This should take about five minutes per batch Repeat with the remaining butter and bread
- Coat and serve:
- While still warm use tongs or a spoon to move the hot French toast bites directly into the bowl of cinnamon brown sugar Toss thoroughly so every side gets a good coat of the spiced sugar Serve immediately while deliciously warm Add maple syrup or fresh fruit if you like
Save One of my favorite things about these French toast bites is the way the brown sugar caramelizes on the surface when tossed while still piping hot My family loves sneaking the first freshly sugared bite straight from the bowl
Storage Tips
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days The texture remains pleasantly soft Reheat in a nonstick skillet for best results or try a warm oven to revive the crispness If freezing lay cooled bites on a tray to freeze individually then store in a ziptop bag up to two months
Ingredient Substitutions
If brioche or challah is hard to find use Texas toast or another thick-cut soft bread Swap whole milk for half-and-half for extra richness or try oat milk for a dairy-free alternative For a spicier touch sprinkle in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the coating
Serving Suggestions
Pile these French toast bites into a bowl and dust with extra cinnamon sugar Pair them with a side of Greek yogurt and berries for a balanced breakfast Dip in chocolate sauce for dessert or offer small cups of maple syrup for dunking My kids especially love them as finger food at parties
Save This recipe always brings a little bit of warmth to busy mornings and inspires my family to gather round for a sweet bite or two
Common Questions
- → Which bread is best for French toast bites?
Brioche or challah is recommended for its rich flavor and soft texture, but thick Texas toast also works beautifully.
- → Can I prepare these toast bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and coat them ahead, then reheat in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- → What toppings go well with these bites?
Maple syrup, fresh berries, yogurt, or chocolate sauce are delicious choices for serving these sugary bites.
- → Are Cinnamon Brown Sugar Toast Bites suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this dish is vegetarian as it contains eggs and dairy but no meat or fish ingredients.
- → Do these bites contain common allergens?
They include eggs, milk, wheat (gluten), and butter. Always check labels for hidden allergens.