Name: French Toast Cups Recipe That Elevates Your Brunch
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into thick slices; 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk (or half & half for extra richness); ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra custard texture); 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; Butter (for greasing muffin tin); Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries for topping

Jump to Recipe

Some mornings call for something cozy, sweet, and just a little bit special—and that’s where these French Toast Cups come in. As a busy mom and brunch enthusiast, I’ve learned the magic of recipes that are simple yet feel like a hug on a plate.

These mini bites are perfect for when you want to impress guests or just treat your family to something delightful—without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a bustling holiday morning, these custard-soaked treasures are your golden ticket to effortless brunch bliss.

Why You’ll Love This French Toast Cups Recipe

These French Toast Cups are everything a busy morning dreams of—quick to prep, easy to bake, and absolutely delicious. They’re like cozy little hugs baked into muffin tins! Whether you’re juggling work, kids, or just need a win in the kitchen, this sweet breakfast cup recipe delivers. Plus, they’re portable, pretty, and picky-eater approved. One bite, and you’ll see why they’re a true crowd-pleasing brunch idea!

Ingredients for French Toast Cups

If your pantry is anything like mine, you might already have most of what you need to whip up these sweet, custardy bites. This recipe is wonderfully forgiving, and a few smart swaps can make it even more fun to experiment with. Exact measurements are listed at the bottom of this post for easy printing—but here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters.

Core Ingredients

Brioche or challah bread: The heart of this recipe. These breads are soft, slightly sweet, and soak up custard like a dream.
Eggs: Essential for the custard base. They help bind everything and give structure to the cups.
Milk or half & half: Adds creaminess and helps create that rich, velvety custard texture.
Heavy cream (optional): For an ultra-luxurious custard. I use it when I really want to spoil my guests—or myself.
Brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and vanilla.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
Ground cinnamon: That cozy, spiced aroma that makes the whole kitchen smell like a bakery.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and elevate the other flavors.
Butter: Used to grease the muffin tin, ensuring easy removal and golden edges.

Optional Add-ins and Toppings

Maple syrup: A must-have drizzle for that classic brunch touch.
Powdered sugar: Dust on top for a pretty, bakery-style finish.
Fresh berries: Blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries add color, tartness, and freshness.
Mini chocolate chips: A fun twist for the chocoholics in your house (raises hand).
Chopped nuts: Pecans or walnuts give a nice crunch if you want texture variety.
Fresh mint: Totally optional, but a sprig or two makes your platter feel extra fancy.

Ingredient Substitutions and Tips

If you’re out of brioche, try any soft, enriched bread—Texas toast or Hawaiian rolls work too.
Need it dairy-free? Use almond milk and skip the cream, or try coconut milk for added flavor.
No brown sugar? White sugar with a touch of molasses makes a quick substitute.
To save time, prep the custard mix the night before and refrigerate it in a sealed container.
Day-old bread is best—it holds its shape and soaks up more custard without becoming mushy.

How to Make French Toast Cups

These French Toast Cups come together with just a few simple steps—and oh, the payoff is worth it. I’ve made these on sleepy Sundays and chaotic school mornings, and they’ve never let me down. Let’s walk through this cozy little process together.

Step 1 – Prep the Bread

Start by slicing your brioche or challah into thick, sturdy pieces. If you’re using day-old bread (which I highly recommend), it’s already a little dry—perfect for soaking up that rich custard without getting soggy.

Use a biscuit cutter or a small glass to cut circles that fit into your muffin tin wells. No cutter? No problem. Just trim the edges with a knife until they nestle in nicely. I save the scraps for breadcrumbs or croutons later!

Step 2 – Make the Custard

In a medium bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, and cream (if using). Add brown sugar, a splash of vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This combo creates that dreamy custard flavor we all love in mini brioche French toast.

Whisk until everything’s smooth and golden, no eggy streaks. I like to make this ahead and stash it in the fridge overnight—one less thing to do in the morning rush.

Step 3 – Soak the Bread and Assemble

Lightly butter your muffin tin so nothing sticks. Then, dip each bread circle into the custard for 15–20 seconds. Let it soak, but don’t drown it—think sponge, not soup.

Place each soaked piece into a muffin cup. Pour a little extra custard over the top of each one. That’s the secret to super moist custard-soaked bread bites with crisp golden edges.

Step 4 – Bake the Cups

Pop the tray into a preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the tops are puffed and lightly browned. Your kitchen will smell like a cinnamon-sugar dream.

The texture should be soft in the center with a gentle crust outside—like baked French toast muffins but with a slightly crisp edge that makes every bite delightful.

Step 5 – Garnish and Serve

Let the cups cool for a few minutes before removing them. I use a butter knife to gently lift them out—it works like a charm.

Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh berries or a sprig of mint. Serve warm, and don’t be surprised if they disappear before you even sit down. These are the ultimate easy brunch finger food that looks fancy but feels like home.

Tips for Success

Use day-old bread—it soaks up the custard beautifully without falling apart.
Don’t oversoak the bread; 15–20 seconds is just right for tender, not soggy, bites.
Grease your muffin tin well to avoid sticking and achieve golden edges.
Let the cups rest a few minutes before removing to set the custard.
Serve warm for the best flavor and texture—it’s worth the wait!

Equipment Needed

Muffin tin: A standard 12-cup muffin pan works perfectly for shaping these sweet breakfast cups.
Mixing bowl: Medium-sized for whisking up that luscious custard base.
Whisk: Helps blend the eggs and milk into a smooth mixture—no clumps allowed.
Biscuit cutter or knife: For shaping bread to fit—use a glass rim in a pinch.
Butter knife or small spatula: Ideal for gently lifting baked cups out without tearing.

Variations on French Toast Cups

Berry Cream Cheese Swirl: Add a dollop of softened cream cheese and a spoonful of jam before baking. It’s like a mini cheesecake met breakfast.
Apple Cinnamon Delight: Stir in finely diced apples sautéed in butter and cinnamon for a cozy fall-inspired twist.
Chocolate Banana Bliss: Layer thin banana slices and sprinkle mini chocolate chips between bread layers for a kid-favorite combo.
Nut-Free Option: Skip the nuts and double up on berries or use sunflower seed butter for a safe twist in allergy-sensitive homes.
Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free brioche or soft sandwich bread. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to soak up the custard.
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap milk and cream for almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil instead of butter for greasing the tin.
Savory Spin: Skip the sugar and cinnamon, add cheese, herbs, and cooked bacon or spinach for a brunchy, savory version.
Pumpkin Spice Cups: Swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice and mix in a spoonful of pumpkin purée for an autumn treat.

Creative Brunch Pairings

Fresh fruit salad: Bright and juicy, it balances the richness of the French Toast Cups beautifully.
Greek yogurt parfaits: Layered with granola and berries, they add a creamy contrast and crunch.
Mimosas or herbal tea: A bubbly sip or calming brew makes brunch feel like an occasion.
Mini quiches or frittatas: Add savory balance to your sweet offerings for a well-rounded spread.
Serve on a tiered platter: Elevate presentation with varied heights—it turns your table into a bakery window!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make French Toast Cups ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! I often prep my French Toast Cups the night before when I know mornings will be chaotic. You can make the custard and cut the bread in advance, then assemble and bake in the morning for fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness. Or, bake them fully, refrigerate overnight, and reheat at 300°F for about 10 minutes. They still taste amazing warm!

Q: What type of bread works best for this sweet breakfast cup recipe?

A: Soft, rich breads like brioche or challah are ideal. They soak up the custard beautifully and bake into pillowy perfection. That’s why I adore using them in this sweet breakfast cup recipe. If you’re in a pinch, thick-cut white bread or even Texas toast can work—just make sure it’s a little stale.

Q: How do I prevent soggy baked French toast muffins?

A: Nobody wants soggy bottoms! The trick is to use day-old bread, which is drier and absorbs custard without turning mushy. Also, don’t oversoak the slices—15 to 20 seconds is just right. Bake until golden and set. These tips help your baked French toast muffins hold their shape while staying tender inside.

Q: Can I freeze French Toast Cups for later?

A: Yes, and they freeze like a dream! Once baked and cooled, pop your French Toast Cups into a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready, reheat in the oven at 300°F for 12–15 minutes. They’re perfect for meal prep or those mornings when you need a quick, cozy bite with zero fuss.

Q: Are these mini brioche French toast bites kid-friendly?

A: Oh, 100% yes! My kids gobble these mini brioche French toast cups faster than I can plate them. They’re fun to eat, just the right size for little hands, and you can even customize toppings for picky eaters. Add chocolate chips, a berry or two, or serve plain with syrup—it’s a hit every time.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about starting the day with a warm, golden French Toast Cup in hand. It’s like brunch got dressed up but still knows how to keep things cozy. These little bites bring joy to my table every time—whether it’s a lazy Saturday or a special celebration. They’re simple, satisfying, and secretly impressive. And let’s be honest, anything that makes mornings easier and tastier is a win in my book. So go ahead, preheat that oven and treat yourself. Because breakfast should feel like a hug—and these cups deliver, one sweet bite at a time.

French Toast Cups Recipe That Elevates Your Brunch