Description
Protein French Toast Muffins are a fluffy, moist, and protein-packed breakfast treat that combines the comforting flavors of classic French toast with a convenient muffin form. Made with rich bread like Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast soaked in a creamy custard enriched with protein powder, these muffins are perfect for busy mornings, meal prep, or a healthy snack. Versatile and customizable with mix-ins like fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips, they bring both nutrition and flavor to your breakfast table.
Ingredients
Bread: The Heart of the Muffin
- 6–8 slices of bread (Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast recommended; gluten-free bread as an option)
The Custard: Creamy, Flavorful, and Protein-Packed
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy such as almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk)
- 1/2 cup protein powder (vanilla or cinnamon flavored recommended)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey or sugar substitute)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-Ins (For Extra Flavor and Texture)
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
- 1/4 cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, blueberries, chopped nuts, or other toppings of choice
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin thoroughly with cooking spray or line with muffin liners to prevent sticking. If using silicone muffin tins, greasing may be optional.
- Prepare the Bread: Cut bread into 1-inch cubes, optionally removing crusts for a softer texture or leaving them on for chewiness. Place cubes in a large bowl and gently toss to separate them.
- Whisk the Custard: In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, protein powder, maple syrup (or alternative sweetener), vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until smooth and well combined with no clumps. If using Greek yogurt or melted butter/coconut oil, whisk those in at this stage.
- Adjust Sweetness and Spice: Taste the custard mixture and adjust sweetness or spices as needed, keeping in mind the bread will absorb some sweetness.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard over the bread cubes and gently toss to coat evenly. Allow bread to soak for 10-15 minutes or up to 30 minutes for softer muffins, stirring occasionally to ensure uniform absorption.
- Assemble the Muffins: Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, evenly distribute the custard-soaked bread cubes into the prepared muffin tin cups. If using mix-ins like chocolate chips, blueberries, or nuts, sprinkle them on top or gently press into the bread cubes.
- Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the muffins are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Watch for over-browning; tent with foil if needed.
- Cool and Serve: Remove muffins from oven and let cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature, plain or with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Do not overmix custard to avoid tough muffins.
- Proper soaking of bread is crucial for moist texture.
- Even distribution of bread cubes in muffin tin ensures consistent baking.
- Use an oven thermometer to maintain accurate baking temperature.
- Cool muffins on a wire rack after removing from tin to prevent sogginess.
- High-quality ingredients improve final flavor and texture.
- Customize spices and add-ins for different flavor profiles.
- Store baked muffins in an airtight container refrigerated up to 4-5 days.
- Freeze cooled muffins wrapped individually for up to 2-3 months.
- Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Protein French Toast Muffins, Healthy Breakfast Muffins, Protein Packed Breakfast, Make Ahead Breakfast, High Protein Muffins, Kid Friendly Breakfast, Meal Prep Muffins
