Cinnamon-Raisin French Toast Muffins Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, or as needed for greasing muffin cups
• 2/3 cup half and half
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons white sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 3 cups tightly-packed cubed cinnamon raisin bread
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup maple syrup, or to taste (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (180C). Grease a standard-size 6-muffin tin with butter.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the half and half, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
3. Add the cubed cinnamon raisin bread to the liquid mixture, stirring gently to ensure all bread pieces are coated.
4. Evenly divide the batter into the prepared muffin tin, ensuring that the bread cubes are distributed well.
5. For the streusel topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
6. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use a fork or pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse sand with small pebbles.
7. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of the muffins.
8. Bake the muffins in the center of the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the muffins to cool on a rack for about 5 minutes before serving.
10. Drizzle with maple syrup to taste, and enjoy them warm!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 15g (19% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 7g (36% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 87mg (29% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 520mg (23% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 68g (25% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (18% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 12g (24% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 0mg (0% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 119mg (9% Daily Value)
• Iron: 4mg (21% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 327mg (7% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note: Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. If you're following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Origin and History:

The idea behind Cinnamon-Raisin French Toast Muffins draws inspiration from two beloved breakfast staples: French toast and muffins. French toast, also known as "eggy bread," dates back to ancient Rome, where bread soaked in milk and eggs was fried in oil or butter. The dish gained popularity across Europe, particularly in France, where it became a staple breakfast. The American twist on this classic, however, has been to transform it into a more portable form, blending the richness of French toast with the convenience of a muffin. The addition of raisins and cinnamon further elevates the flavor, creating a combination that balances sweetness with spice. This dish was likely popularized in the United States, where cinnamon-raisin bread became a common addition to the breakfast table.

Regional Variations:

Though the recipe for Cinnamon-Raisin French Toast Muffins is largely American in origin, variations exist based on regional preferences. In some regions, different types of bread, such as challah or brioche, might be used instead of cinnamon-raisin bread. The choice of spices can also vary, with some recipes calling for nutmeg or allspice in addition to cinnamon. In parts of New England, where cinnamon-raisin bread is a staple, this dish is often served as a quick and comforting breakfast, perfect for chilly mornings. On the other hand, in the southern United States, maple syrup is a common accompaniment, adding an extra layer of sweetness to the dish.

Distinction from Similar Dishes:

While the idea of soaking bread in an egg mixture and frying it is common to both French toast and Cinnamon-Raisin French Toast Muffins, the latter stands out for its use of muffin tins and a baked approach. Traditional French toast is typically pan-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft interior. However, by baking the mixture in muffin tins, the muffins achieve a slightly different texture, with a crunch on top from the streusel topping and a custardy, moist interior. This method also allows for the dish to be served in individual portions, making it more convenient for breakfast gatherings or brunch parties. Unlike bread pudding, which is also made with soaked bread, these muffins retain their individual structure, offering a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Where It's Typically Served:

Cinnamon-Raisin French Toast Muffins are most commonly served as a breakfast or brunch dish, often accompanied by a drizzle of maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dollop of whipped cream. Their combination of sweetness and spice makes them a favorite for holiday breakfasts, especially during colder months like fall and winter. They can also be served at casual brunch gatherings or as a quick, comforting morning meal. Given their easy-to-make nature and the ability to prepare them in advance, they are often found at potlucks, family gatherings, or even in cafes that specialize in baked goods and breakfast foods. The individual portion size also makes them a great choice for busy mornings, offering a quick and satisfying start to the day.

Fun Facts:

• The use of raisins in this recipe is believed to have originated in the 17th century, when dried fruits were commonly added to baked goods as a way to preserve them before refrigeration was available.
• The streusel topping, which adds a crisp, sugary layer to the muffins, is a German-origin concept, traditionally used in baking cakes and breads to enhance flavor and texture.
• Though muffins are typically associated with American and British breakfasts, the concept of baking food in small, individual portions goes back to medieval times, where people would bake breads in personal-sized portions, often in a small clay mold.
• French toast has many different names worldwide: in France, it's called "pain perdu," which means "lost bread," referring to the method of reviving stale bread by soaking it in egg and milk before cooking it.

In conclusion, Cinnamon-Raisin French Toast Muffins are a delightful twist on classic French toast, merging tradition with innovation. Whether served for a special occasion or as a comforting weekday breakfast, they offer the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and nostalgia, making them a favorite among breakfast enthusiasts across the world.

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