Description
Cinnamon French Toast Bites are perfectly bite-sized pieces of slightly stale white bread coated in a rich egg mixture, sautéed to golden perfection, and generously dusted with a cinnamon-sugar blend. These crispy, warm morsels are served with maple syrup for dipping, making them an irresistible, sweet breakfast treat or snack that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
For the French Toast Bites
- 4 thick slices of slightly stale white bread (1″/2.5cm thick)
- 2 large eggs (or 3 small eggs)
- 1/4 cup milk
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tbsp butter (divided)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder
To Serve
- Maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Cut the crusts off the bread slices and then cut each slice into 9 equal cubes. Using slightly stale bread helps the cubes keep their shape and prevents sogginess when dipped.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until fully combined. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to the bread cubes.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a shallow bowl, mix the white sugar and cinnamon powder thoroughly to create an even coating mixture.
- Melt the Butter: Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of butter in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Avoid browning the butter to prevent a bitter taste.
- Cook the First Batch: Toss half of the bread cubes in the egg mixture, shaking off any excess. Place the coated cubes into the hot pan and sauté using a wooden spoon, turning them to brown all sides evenly. This will take approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Remove the cooked bread cubes from the pan and immediately toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly. Then transfer them to a serving plate.
- Repeat Process: Repeat the dipping and cooking steps with the remaining bread cubes, adding the rest of the butter to the pan as needed to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the warm French toast bites immediately with maple syrup for dipping. The contrast of crispy exterior and soft interior delivers a delightful breakfast or snack experience.
Notes
- Using slightly stale bread is key to maintaining the structure of the cubes during dipping and cooking.
- Be careful not to brown the butter too much to avoid bitterness in the finished bites.
- These bites are best served immediately for optimal crispness, but can be kept warm in a low oven if needed.
- Maple syrup enhances the sweetness but other toppings like honey or fruit preserves can be used as alternatives.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American