Cinnamon French Toast with Maple Syrup: A Cozy Classic Worth Waking Up For
Before we get into this comforting, golden-crisp delight of a breakfast, let me just say—thank you. If you're reading this, it's likely because you love good food, warm kitchens, and the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together just right. This Cinnamon French Toast recipe? It’s a hug on a plate. And I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you.
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Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Cinnamon French Toast
Golden and crisp on the outside, soft and custardy in the middle, and generously flavored with warm cinnamon—this is French toast as it should be. Each bite tastes like a cozy Sunday morning, whether you're serving it up with a strong cup of coffee or a drizzle of maple syrup.
I promised you versatile, and here’s proof! Dress it up with whipped cream and berries, or keep it simple with melting butter and syrup. Either way, this dish is anything but boring!!
What Makes This Recipe Special?
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All-day breakfast vibes – Not just for mornings. This makes a lovely breakfast-for-dinner option, too.
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Family-approved – My nephews ask for this every time they visit!
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Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – Pantry staples, cozy spices, and magic.
What It Tastes Like
Imagine warm cinnamon rolls crossed with custardy brioche toast—slightly crisp edges giving way to a fluffy center, all soaked in real maple syrup and melting butter. The cinnamon? It perfumes the whole kitchen. I’m kicking myself for not having shot it in action!
🧡 Benefits of This Recipe
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Ready in under 20 minutes.
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Kid-friendly and adult-approved.
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Customizable for dairy-free or gluten-free diets.
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Freezer-friendly—make extra for future lazy mornings.
📝 Ingredients
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6 thick slices of brioche or challah bread (day-old is best!)
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3 large eggs
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¾ cup whole milk (or any milk of your choice)
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1 tbsp ground cinnamon
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
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Butter for frying
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Maple syrup, for serving
🛠 Tools You’ll Need
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Mixing bowl
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Whisk
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Non-stick skillet or griddle
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Spatula
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Shallow baking dish (optional, for dipping)
🧩 Additions & Substitutions
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Milk – Use almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free version.
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Bread – Try sourdough for a tangy twist, or use gluten-free bread.
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Extras – Add a splash of orange zest or a pinch of nutmeg for holiday vibes!
👨🍳 How to Make Cinnamon French Toast
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Make the custard
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, brown sugar, and salt. -
Dip the bread
Soak each slice of bread in the egg mixture for 15–20 seconds per side. -
Heat the pan
Melt a bit of butter over medium heat in your skillet or griddle. -
Cook
Fry each slice for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp. -
Serve
Top with more butter and drizzle with maple syrup while still warm. Heavenly!
🍽 What to Serve with Cinnamon French Toast
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Crispy bacon or sausage links
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Fresh berries or caramelized bananas
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Greek yogurt with honey
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A hot cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee or chai
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect French Toast
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Let your bread sit out for a few hours to slightly dry—it soaks up more flavor!
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Wipe the pan between batches to avoid burnt butter.
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Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven if making a big batch.
📦 Storage Instructions
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: Layer slices between parchment paper and freeze for up to 2 months.
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To reheat: Pop in the toaster or warm on a skillet over medium heat.
ℹ️ General Information
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Cook time: 10 minutes
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Total time: 20 minutes
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Servings: 3–4 people
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Skill level: Beginner-friendly
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the custard mixture the night before or freeze the cooked toast.
What bread is best?
Brioche, challah, or Texas toast are ideal—thick, soft, and sturdy.
Can I bake it instead?
You sure can! Line a baking sheet, place the dipped bread slices, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes per side.
🧾 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: ~310
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Protein: 9g
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Carbs: 34g
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Fat: 15g
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Sugar: 8g
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Fiber: 1g