Name: French Toast Cups Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 large eggs; 1½ cups milk; ¼ cup light brown sugar; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp salt; 15 cups bread cubes; maple syrup; For Whiskey Cream Cheese Glaze:; 4 oz cream cheese; ¾ cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp whiskey; ½ tsp vanilla extract; 3 tbsp milk

If you're looking for a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, these French toast cups are the perfect treat. They are easy to make, deliciously crispy, and come with a rich whiskey cream cheese glaze that takes the flavor to the next level.

Photos of French Toast Cups Recipe

When preparing this recipe, you may find whiskey and cream cheese are ingredients not commonly found in every household. Make sure to pick them up at the supermarket. Additionally, using light brown sugar and a good quality vanilla extract will enhance the flavor of your French toast cups.

Ingredients For French Toast Cups Recipe

eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and giving the French toast cups their structure.

milk: Adds moisture to the mixture, ensuring the bread soaks up the flavors well.

light brown sugar: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.

vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note to the French toast.

ground cinnamon: Gives the French toast a classic, comforting spice.

salt: Enhances the other flavors in the recipe.

bread cubes: The main component of the French toast cups, best if slightly stale for better texture.

maple syrup: Perfect for drizzling on top, adding sweetness and flavor.

cream cheese: The base for the rich and tangy glaze.

powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze.

whiskey: Adds a unique, rich flavor to the glaze.

milk: Used to thin out the glaze to the desired consistency.

One reader, Ami Garber says:

These French toast cups are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast! The crispy, golden tops and the whiskey cream cheese glaze add a gourmet touch. Perfect for brunch gatherings, they were a hit with everyone. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Ami Garber

Techniques Required for French Toast Cups Recipe

How to whisk: Whisking involves rapidly beating ingredients together to incorporate air and achieve a smooth mixture. Use a whisk or fork to combine the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.

How to toss bread cubes: Tossing bread cubes means gently mixing them with the egg mixture to ensure they are evenly coated. Use a large spoon or spatula to lift and turn the bread cubes in the bowl.

How to refrigerate properly: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to allow the bread cubes to soak up the egg mixture. This step helps the flavors meld together.

How to bake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Place the mixture in a baking dish or muffin tin and bake until the tops are crispy and golden.

How to whisk cream cheese glaze: Combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, whiskey, and vanilla in a bowl. Whisk until smooth, then add milk gradually to achieve the desired consistency.

How to drizzle: Drizzling involves pouring a thin stream of liquid over food. Use a spoon or a small pitcher to drizzle the whiskey cream cheese glaze and maple syrup over the French toast cups.

How To Make French Toast Cups

Bake a big batch of French toast cups for your next brunch gathering! It comes with a creamy whiskey glaze and made easy in just under one hour.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

6large eggs,whisked
1½cupsmilk
¼cuplight brown sugar,packed
1tbspvanilla extract
1tbspground cinnamon
½tspsalt
15cupsbread cubes,½-inch sized
maple syrup,for serving

For Whiskey Cream Cheese Glaze:

4ozcream cheese,softened
¾cuppowdered sugar
2tbspwhiskey,or milk
½tspvanilla extract
3tbspmilk

Instructions

French Toast Cups:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and salt until combined and smooth.
Add in the bread cubes, and toss until they are evenly coated with the egg mixture.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
Take out the bowl, then toss the bread cubes once more with the egg mixture.
Refrigerate for 10 to 30 more minutes.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops are crispy and golden.
Remove and let cool for 5 minutes.

Whiskey Cream Cheese Glaze:

Whisk the cream cheese, powdered sugar, whiskey and vanilla together until smooth.
Add in milk to thin out the glaze, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches desired consistency.
Serve cups warm, drizzled with maple syrup and the whiskey cream cheese glaze, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 274.14kcal
Fat: 8.36g
Saturated Fat: 3.63g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.31g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.43g
Carbohydrates: 37.68g
Fiber: 2.35g
Sugar: 15.52g
Protein: 10.17g
Cholesterol: 106.82mg
Sodium: 339.92mg
Calcium: 137.70mg
Potassium: 190.13mg
Iron: 2.31mg
Vitamin A: 90.44µg
Vitamin C: 0.12mg

Crucial Technique Tip for French Toast Cups Recipe

To ensure your bread cubes absorb the egg mixture evenly, make sure to use slightly stale bread. Fresh bread can become too soggy, while stale bread will hold its shape and soak up the flavors better.

Time-Saving Tips for French Toast Cups Recipe

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-cut bread: Buy pre-cut bread cubes to eliminate the need for cutting and save valuable minutes.

Refrigerate overnight: Let the bread cubes soak in the egg mixture overnight for a richer flavor and quicker preparation in the morning.

Make glaze in advance: Prepare the whiskey cream cheese glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just whisk it again before serving.

Use muffin liners: Line your muffin tin with muffin liners for easy cleanup and quick removal of the french toast cups.

Substitute Ingredients For French Toast Cups Recipe

eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This works well as a binder in the recipe.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk provides a similar consistency and is a good option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and can add a slight caramel flavor.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor that complements the other ingredients.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices that can add a richer flavor profile.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content.
bread cubes - Substitute with gluten-free bread cubes: For those with gluten intolerance, gluten-free bread cubes work just as well.
maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a good alternative sweetener with a similar consistency.
cream cheese - Substitute with vegan cream cheese: Vegan cream cheese provides a similar texture and is suitable for those who avoid dairy.
powdered sugar - Substitute with coconut powdered sugar: Coconut powdered sugar is a less processed alternative and adds a slight coconut flavor.
whiskey - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can provide a similar liquid content and a sweet flavor without the alcohol.
vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract can add a different but complementary flavor to the glaze.
milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk is a creamy alternative that works well in glazes and is suitable for those avoiding dairy.

Presentation Ideas for French Toast Cups

Use individual ramekins: Present the french toast cups in elegant, white ramekins to give each serving a refined look.
Garnish with fresh berries: Add a touch of color and freshness by garnishing each french toast cup with a few fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries.
Drizzle artistically: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle the whiskey cream cheese glaze and maple syrup in a decorative pattern over the french toast cups.
Add a mint sprig: Place a small sprig of fresh mint on top of each french toast cup to add a pop of green and a hint of freshness.
Serve on a slate board: Arrange the ramekins on a sleek, black slate board to create a striking contrast and elevate the presentation.
Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the tops of the french toast cups with powdered sugar for a delicate, snowy finish.
Include a side of whipped cream: Serve a small dollop of whipped cream on the side of each ramekin for added indulgence and texture.
Use gold utensils: Provide gold-plated utensils to enhance the luxurious feel of the dish and complement the rich flavors.
Add a caramelized sugar garnish: Create a thin, caramelized sugar garnish to place on top of each french toast cup, adding a touch of elegance and crunch.
Serve with a shot of whiskey: Accompany each french toast cup with a small shot of whiskey to tie in the flavors of the whiskey cream cheese glaze and offer a sophisticated pairing.

Essential Tools for Making French Toast Cups

Oven: Used to bake the french toast cups at 350 degrees F until they are crispy and golden.
Large mixing bowl: Essential for whisking together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt, and for tossing the bread cubes in the egg mixture.
Whisk: Necessary for combining the ingredients smoothly and ensuring an even mixture.
Plastic wrap: Used to cover the mixing bowl while refrigerating the bread cubes and egg mixture.
Muffin tin: Ideal for baking the french toast cups in individual portions.
Measuring cups: Required for accurately measuring the milk, brown sugar, and powdered sugar.
Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, salt, and whiskey.
Spatula: Useful for tossing the bread cubes in the egg mixture to ensure they are evenly coated.
Cooling rack: Allows the french toast cups to cool slightly after baking.
Small mixing bowl: Used for making the whiskey cream cheese glaze.
Electric mixer: Helps in whisking the cream cheese, powdered sugar, whiskey, and vanilla together until smooth.
Tablespoon: Used for adding milk to the glaze to achieve the desired consistency.
Serving plate: For presenting the french toast cups, drizzled with maple syrup and the whiskey cream cheese glaze.

Storing and Freezing French Toast Cups

Let the french toast cups cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store, place the cups in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, wrap each cup individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. French toast cups can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat refrigerated cups, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
For frozen cups, remove the plastic wrap and place them on a baking sheet. Cover the sheet with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the tops, if desired.
The whiskey cream cheese glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds, or until it reaches a pourable consistency, before drizzling over the reheated french toast cups.

How To Reheat Leftover French Toast Cups

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover french toast cups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method helps to restore the crispy texture of the cups while warming them evenly.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can reheat the cups in the microwave. Place the desired number of cups on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this may cause the cups to become soggy.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Place the french toast cups on the toaster oven rack and heat them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy on the outside. This method is perfect for reheating smaller batches of cups.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover cups. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cups in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. This method is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior.
For a stovetop reheating option, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or cooking spray to the pan, and place the cups in the skillet. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method allows you to add a little extra flavor to the cups while reheating them.

Interesting Fact About French Toast Cups

A fun fact about this French toast cups recipe is that it combines the classic flavors of French toast with the convenience of a muffin form, making it perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or brunch gatherings.

Is Making French Toast Cups at Home Cost-Effective?

This french toast cups recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using basic ingredients like eggs, milk, and bread cubes, it keeps expenses low. The whiskey cream cheese glaze adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $10-$12.

Is French Toast Cups Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The French toast cups recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not the healthiest breakfast option. The recipe is high in calories, sugar, and fat due to the generous amounts of eggs, milk, brown sugar, and cream cheese used. The bread cubes, which form the base of the dish, are likely made from refined flour, adding to the carbohydrate content without providing much fiber. Additionally, the whiskey cream cheese glaze, although optional, further increases the sugar and fat content of the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole grain bread instead of white bread to increase the fiber content
Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the egg mixture or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative to reduce the fat content
Opt for a lighter glaze made with Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, and reduce the amount of powdered sugar
Serve the French toast cups with fresh fruit to add vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the meal
Reduce the portion size and consider the French toast cups as an occasional treat rather than a regular breakfast item

By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the delightful flavors of French toast cups while minimizing the negative health impacts associated with excessive sugar, fat, and refined carbohydrates.

Editor's Opinion on French Toast Cups Recipe

This recipe for French toast cups is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast dish. The combination of cinnamon and vanilla in the egg mixture infuses the bread cubes with rich, comforting flavors. The whiskey cream cheese glaze adds a sophisticated touch, balancing sweetness with a hint of warmth. Refrigerating the bread allows it to soak up the custard, ensuring a moist interior and crispy exterior. Serving these cups with maple syrup enhances their decadence. Overall, this recipe is both innovative and indulgent, perfect for a special brunch or a cozy weekend treat.

Enhance Your French Toast Cups Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Caramelized Apple Compote: Imagine the delightful contrast of warm, caramelized apples with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, spooned generously over your French toast cups. The sweetness and slight tartness of the apples will perfectly complement the richness of the whiskey cream cheese glaze.

Crispy Bacon Strips: For a savory twist, pair your French toast cups with crispy bacon strips. The salty crunch of the bacon will provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the maple syrup and glaze, creating a balanced and satisfying brunch experience.

Fresh Berry Medley: A vibrant medley of fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries will add a burst of color and freshness to your French toast cups. The juicy berries will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish, making each bite a delightful experience.

Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: A vanilla yogurt parfait layered with granola and honey can be a light and creamy side that complements the French toast cups. The smooth texture of the yogurt and the crunch of the granola will add an interesting textural contrast to your meal.

Herb-Roasted Potatoes: For a heartier option, consider herb-roasted potatoes. The crispy exterior and soft interior of the potatoes, seasoned with rosemary and thyme, will provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the French toast cups.

Similar Recipes to French Toast Cups

Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bake: Imagine the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls combined with the comforting flavors of french toast. This dish is perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a delightful dessert. Serve it with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

Blueberry French Toast Casserole: Bursting with juicy blueberries and a hint of lemon zest, this casserole is a fruity twist on the classic french toast. It's an excellent choice for a make-ahead breakfast or a sweet treat. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Apple Pie French Toast: Combine the flavors of apple pie with the richness of french toast. This recipe features spiced apple slices and a crunchy streusel topping. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a generous pour of caramel sauce.

Banana Foster French Toast: Inspired by the classic Bananas Foster dessert, this french toast is caramelized with brown sugar and rum. The bananas add a sweet and creamy texture, making it a decadent breakfast or dessert option. Pair it with a side of vanilla yogurt or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pumpkin Spice French Toast: Perfect for the fall season, this french toast is infused with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. It's a cozy and aromatic dish that pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with French Toast Cups Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of stuffed mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. These delightful bites are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, creating a creamy and aromatic filling. The mushrooms are then baked to perfection, resulting in a tender yet slightly crispy texture. Serve them warm, and watch as your guests savor each bite, enjoying the perfect balance of earthy mushrooms and rich, creamy filling.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, which provide a crunchy base. Top them with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. The combination of juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil creates a refreshing and flavorful topping. Finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of balsamic glaze for an extra touch of elegance. This appetizer is perfect for any gathering, offering a taste of Mediterranean sunshine in every bite.

Main Courses:

Grilled Herb-Crusted Salmon: Grilled Herb-Crusted Salmon: Elevate your dinner with this delightful dish. The salmon is marinated in a blend of fresh herbs, lemon zest, and olive oil, then grilled to perfection. The crispy herb crust adds a burst of flavor, while the tender, flaky fish melts in your mouth. Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber-dill salad and roasted baby potatoes for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, quinoa, and black beans, seasoned with smoked paprika and cumin. Topped with melted cheese and baked until golden, they make a hearty and nutritious main course. Pair them with a side of avocado-lime crema and a simple green salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Why trust this French Toast Cups Recipe:

This french toast cups recipe is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. The combination of eggs, milk, and bread cubes creates a rich, custardy texture, while the cinnamon and vanilla add warmth and depth of flavor. The whiskey cream cheese glaze elevates the dish with a touch of sophistication. Each step is carefully crafted to ensure a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a reliable and delicious choice for any breakfast or brunch.

Have you tried making these delightful French Toast Cups? Let us know how they turned out or share your own twist on this recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the French toast cups are done baking?

You'll know the French toast cups are done when the tops are crispy and golden. It usually takes about 25 to 30 minutes in the oven at 350 degrees F. If you're unsure, you can insert a toothpick into the center of one cup; if it comes out clean, they're ready.

Can I make the French toast cups ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the French toast mixture the night before and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake, just give it a good toss and follow the baking instructions. This can save you time in the morning.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

Any sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or even a good quality white bread works great. The key is to use slightly stale bread so it can soak up the egg mixture without becoming too mushy.

Can I substitute the whiskey in the cream cheese glaze?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use whiskey, you can substitute it with an equal amount of milk or even a flavored extract like almond or maple. It will still taste delicious.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover French toast cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or oven. The glaze can be stored separately in the fridge and drizzled on just before serving.