overhead shot of golden brown french toast on a plate topped with cut strawberries

Cinnamon sugar stuffed French toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a weekend treat, these tips and tricks will ensure your French toast is always a hit.

Classic French toast is stuffed with a cinnamon sugar butter then dipped in an eggy custard.  It is then pan fried until golden brown.  Top with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar and warm maple syrup.

What to serve with Cinnamon Sugar Stuffed French Toast

Fruits: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries add a fresh and tangy contrast to the sweet French toast. Sliced bananas provide a creamy texture and natural sweetness.

Whipped Cream: Top with creamy whipped cream.  Store-bought is fine but homemade whipped cream takes it to another level.

Syrups and Sauces: Maple Syrup is a classic choice that enhances the flavors of the French toast. Warm fruit compote made from berries or apples can add a fruity and slightly tart note.

Nuts: Add chopped walnut, toasted almonds or pecans to add a nutty crunch.

Ingredients for cinnamon sugar stuffed French toast laid out on a kitchen counter: bread, cinnamon, sugar, vanilla, eggs, milk, and butter

Choosing the Perfect Bread

The foundation of any great French toast lies in the choice of bread. Here are some top contenders:

  • Brioche: Rich and buttery, brioche is a popular choice for French toast. Its light and fluffy texture soaks up the egg mixture beautifully, resulting in a soft and creamy interior.
  • Challah: Similar to brioche but slightly denser, challah is another excellent option. Its slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with the cinnamon sugar stuffing.
  • Sourdough: For those who prefer a tangy twist, sourdough bread offers a unique contrast to the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar. Its sturdy structure holds up well during cooking.
  • Texas Toast: Thick and fluffy, Texas toast provides a substantial base for your French toast. Its larger slices allow for more stuffing, making each bite a flavorful experience.
  • Sandwich Bread:  This is the most used for French toast.  It’s readily available as it’s typically a pantry staple. 
  • Hawaiian Rolls:  These tiny sweet breads make a surprisingly great French toast.  The pillowy texture soaks up the egg custard without becoming soggy.

When selecting bread, opt for day-old or slightly stale slices. They absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.

Making the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Stuffing

The stuffing is what sets this French toast apart from the rest. Here’s a simple yet irresistible combination:

  • Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: Mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. Adjust the ratio to your preference.
  • Butter: Soften some unsalted butter to a spreadable consistency. This will help the cinnamon sugar adhere to the bread and create a gooey, sweet filling.

Mix cinnamon sugar mix with the softened butter.  Spread on one side of the bread.  Sandwich two slices together with the filling inside, and your stuffed French toast is ready to cook.

Stovetop Method

  • Preheat the Pan: Use a non-stick skillet or griddle and preheat it over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter, oil or a combination of to coat the surface.
  • Dip and Cook: Dip each stuffed bread slice into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated but not soaked. Place the slices on the preheated pan.
  • Cook Evenly: Cook for 2-3 minutes on all sides, or until golden brown. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning.
Close-up of golden-brown French toast slices stuffed with a creamy cinnamon sugar filling, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with fresh berries with cups in the background

Oven-Baked Method

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Prepare the Egg Mixture: Whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
  • Dip and Arrange: Dip each stuffed bread slice into the egg mixture and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through.
Close-up of golden-brown French toast slices stuffed with a creamy cinnamon sugar filling, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with fresh berries

Tips and Tricks for Perfection

Don’t Over-Soak: Dip the bread slices briefly into the egg mixture. Over-soaking can lead to a soggy French toast.

Use a Wire Rack: After cooking, place the French toast on a wire rack to prevent it from becoming soggy. This allows air to circulate and keeps the toast crispy.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers or want to prepare in advance, proper storage is key.

Storing

Refrigeration: Store cooked French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze individual slices on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

Airfryer: For a quick option, use an airfryer to reheat cinnamon sugar stuffed French toast. This method helps retain the crispiness.

Microwave: While not ideal, the microwave can be used in a pinch. Place a damp paper towel over the French toast and heat for 30-60 seconds. The paper towel helps retain moisture.

Breakfast recipes to try

overhead shot of golden brown french toast on a plate topped with cut strawberries

Get the Recipe Cinnamon Sugar Stuffed French Toast

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe Leave a Review

Ingredients
 

  • 3 tbsp softened butter
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 6 slices bread

Egg Custard

  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling:
    In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, sugar, and 1teaspoon ground cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
  • Assemble the Stuffed French Toast:
    Spread the cinnamon sugar butter mixture evenly on one side of 3 slices of bread. Top with a plain slice of bread together with the buttered side facing inward to create stuffed sandwiches.
  • Prepare the Egg Mixture:
    In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, remaining ground cinnamon, milk, and heavy cream until well combined.
  • Cook the French Toast:
    Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface. Place the dipped sandwiches on the preheated skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. If needed, transfer the cooked French toast to a baking sheet and finish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to ensure the center is fully cooked and the exterior is crispy.
  • Serve:
    Remove the French toast from the skillet and place on a wire rack for a minute to maintain crispiness. Serve warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Cuisine: American
Course: Breakfast
Author: Jehan Powell