Introduction
These caramelized French toast bites are golden, crispy on the outside, and soft and custardy on the inside. Coated in a glossy cinnamon-sugar syrup, they’re the perfect comfort dessert or breakfast treat. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and irresistible texture in every bite.
Ingredients
3 cups day-old bread (brioche or white bread), cut into cubes
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
2 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
Add bread cubes to the mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
Let soak for 5–10 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard.
Heat butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
Add soaked bread cubes in a single layer.
Cook, turning gently, until all sides are golden and crisp.
Sprinkle brown sugar over the pan and drizzle maple syrup.
Cook 1–2 minutes until caramelized and glossy.
Remove from heat and dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired.
How to Make
Use slightly stale bread for best texture — fresh bread can become soggy.
Cut bread into even cubes so they cook uniformly.
Soak briefly; over-soaking can cause breakage.
Cook on medium heat to prevent burning while caramelizing.
Flip gently using a spatula or spoon to keep cubes intact.
Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Variations
Chocolate version: Add chocolate chips during the last minute of cooking.
Apple cinnamon: Add small diced apples sautéed with cinnamon.
Savory twist: Skip sugar, add cheese and herbs instead.
Baked option: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
Vegan version: Use plant milk and replace eggs with 2 tbsp cornstarch + ½ cup milk.
Tips
Use a non-stick pan for easier caramelization.
Don’t overcrowd the pan — cook in batches if needed.
Brown sugar burns quickly; watch closely.
Add syrup at the end to avoid bitterness.
Serve immediately for maximum crispness.
Nutrition
(per serving, approx.)
Calories: 260
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 14g
Healthy Benefits
Provides quick energy from carbohydrates.
Eggs supply protein and essential vitamins.
Milk and cream add calcium for bone health.
Using less sugar than store-bought desserts reduces additives.
Can be made healthier with whole-grain bread and less syrup.
Conclusion
These caramelized French toast bites are proof that simple ingredients can create something magical. Crispy, soft, sweet, and comforting — perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. One bite, and they’ll disappear fast.
