Have you ever found yourself craving a sweet breakfast treat but dreading the time and effort traditional French toast requires? French Toast Bites are the perfect solution – bite-sized pieces of custardy bread that deliver all the delicious flavor you love in a fraction of the time. These adorable, poppable morsels make an excellent Kid-Friendly Breakfast that even the pickiest eaters will devour. With their perfect balance of cinnamon warmth, vanilla sweetness, and a crispy exterior giving way to a soft, tender center, these French toast bites are about to revolutionize your morning routine.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Ingredients List
- 6 slices day-old bread (brioche or challah work best)
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk (whole milk creates the richest flavor)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional but recommended)
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons butter for cooking
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for serving
Substitution options: Use non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Day-old bread works best, but if your bread is fresh, toast it lightly to dry it out slightly.
Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes (includes cutting bread and mixing custard)
Cooking Time: 8 minutes (cooks faster than traditional French toast slices!)
Total Time: 18 minutes
These bite-sized treats cook up in about half the time of regular French toast, making them perfect for busy mornings when you need a special breakfast without the long wait.
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Crack the eggs into a medium bowl and whisk until smooth. Add milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture looks uniform. The custard should be a light golden color with visible specks of cinnamon.
Step 2: Cut the Bread
Cut each slice of bread into 9 equal squares (about 1-inch cubes). If your bread is particularly soft, slightly stale bread actually works better for absorption without falling apart. Try to make the cubes uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Soak the Bread Cubes
Add bread cubes to the custard mixture in batches, gently tossing to ensure each piece is coated on all sides. Let them soak for about 1-2 minutes – any longer and they might become too soggy!
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until melted and bubbling. Add soaked bread cubes, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, turning with tongs or a spatula, until all sides are golden brown and slightly crispy.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 12-15 bites):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin A: 15% DV
- Calcium: 20% DV
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Lower sugar option: Replace sugar with 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup
- Whole grain boost: Use whole grain bread instead of white bread for added fiber
- Protein-packed version: Add 1 tablespoon of protein powder to the custard mixture
- Gluten-free alternative: Substitute gluten-free bread, ensuring it’s slightly stale for best results
Serving Suggestions
Serve these French toast bites in creative ways to elevate your breakfast experience:
- Create a DIY breakfast bar with different dipping sauces like maple syrup, chocolate sauce, and fruit compote
- Thread onto skewers with fresh berries for a fun presentation
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and serve in small paper cones for a portable breakfast
- Pair with yogurt parfaits for a complete breakfast that balances sweet and tangy flavors
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-soaking the bread: This makes it fall apart during cooking
- Cooking at too high heat: This burns the outside before the inside cooks through
- Crowding the pan: Give the bites room to brown evenly on all sides
- Under-seasoning the custard: Be generous with vanilla and cinnamon for the best flavor
Storing Tips for the Recipe
These French toast bites store surprisingly well! Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, arrange in a single layer on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until crisp again. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month – perfect for meal prep! Simply freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid.
Conclusion
French toast bites transform a classic breakfast into a convenient, poppable treat that’s perfect for busy mornings or special breakfasts alike. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for little hands while still satisfying adult cravings for something sweet and comforting. Try making a batch this weekend and watch how quickly they disappear! Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and mix-ins to make this versatile recipe your own.
FAQs
- Can I make French toast bites with stale bread?
Yes! Stale bread is actually ideal for French toast bites as it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy. - How do I prevent my French toast bites from becoming soggy?
Don’t soak the bread cubes for too long – 1-2 minutes is plenty. Also, make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the soaked bread. - Can I make these ahead of time for a brunch party?
Absolutely! Make them ahead and keep warm in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes, or reheat as directed in the storage section. - Are French toast bites freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze cooled French toast bites in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to a month and can be reheated in the oven or toaster oven. - What’s the best bread to use for French toast bites?
Enriched breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best as they have a tender crumb and rich flavor that elevates the final dish.