French Breakfast Puffs Recipe
If you’re longing for a breakfast treat that feels both cozy and a little indulgent, these French Breakfast Puffs are exactly what you need. Imagine tender, buttery muffin-like puffs with a subtle hint of nutmeg folded into the batter, then generously coated in warm melted butter and crispy cinnamon sugar. They offer the perfect balance of soft texture and a sweet-spiced crust that makes waking up worthwhile every morning. Whether you’re serving them for a weekend brunch or a special weekday surprise, these French Breakfast Puffs will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create such a deliciously irresistible treat. Each one is crucial: the butter brings richness, sugar delivers the perfect sweetness, nutmeg adds a whisper of warm spice, and the cinnamon sugar topping seals the deal with a delightful crunch and aroma.
- Unsalted butter, 1/3 cup softened: For a creamy, tender base; room temperature butter ensures easy mixing and light texture.
- Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup: Brings just the right amount of sweetness to the batter itself.
- Large egg, 1: Acts as a binder and adds moisture for fluffy puffs.
- All-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups: The foundation of your puffs, providing structure with a soft crumb.
- Baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons: Helps the puffs rise beautifully and become light and airy.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness.
- Ground nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon: Adds a subtle, warm spice that makes these puffs special.
- Milk, 1/2 cup: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup melted (for topping): Creates the luscious coating that allows the cinnamon sugar to stick perfectly.
- Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (for topping): Mixes with cinnamon for a crunchy, sweet finish.
- Ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon (for topping): Adds aromatic warmth to the outside sugar coating.
How to Make French Breakfast Puffs
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it’s warming up, grease your muffin tin or line the cups with paper liners to make sure your puffs don’t stick and come out perfectly shaped.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture looks light, fluffy, and pale. This process traps air, which will help your French Breakfast Puffs rise and have a tender crumb.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Crack in the egg and continue to mix until everything is smoothly incorporated. The egg gives your batter structure and moisture, helping create that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Combining the dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of the leavening and the lovely spice throughout your batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Alternately
Now, add the dry mixture to the butter mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir gently just until combined—overmixing can make your puffs tough instead of tender.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups and Bake
Divide the batter evenly by filling each muffin cup about two-thirds full to leave room for rising. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will start to smell like heaven.
Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the French Breakfast Puffs bake, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. This lovely blend is what transforms these puffs from ordinary muffins into an unforgettable treat.
Step 8: Coat the Warm Puffs
Once out of the oven, let the puffs cool just slightly until they are warm to the touch. Dip each puff in melted butter and then roll it thoroughly in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step gives the puffs their signature crunchy, sweet crust.
Step 9: Serve
Enjoy your French Breakfast Puffs warm for the best texture and flavor, or let them come to room temperature. They’re perfect any way you serve them!
How to Serve French Breakfast Puffs
Garnishes
While the cinnamon sugar coating is enough to delight your taste buds, consider adding a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or some fresh berries to brighten the flavors and add a touch of elegance.
Side Dishes
French Breakfast Puffs pair wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or hot tea. For a heartier meal, serve alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or fresh fruit salad to balance sweetness with savory and fresh notes.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange these puffs on a charming platter lined with a linen napkin to create a warm, inviting brunch display. You might also serve them in small dessert cups layered with yogurt and berries for a pretty and portable breakfast treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the puffs soft and preserves the cinnamon sugar crust as best as possible.
Freezing
French Breakfast Puffs freeze well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to one month for a quick, sweet breakfast option anytime you want.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated puffs in a warm oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to revive that fresh-baked flavor and crisp up the cinnamon sugar coating again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crunchy topping.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but expect a denser texture. Using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour is a good way to maintain tenderness while adding heartiness.
Is there a way to make these French Breakfast Puffs dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, and use your favorite non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk to keep it dairy-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to make and bake the batter fresh to enjoy maximum rise and fluffiness. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and mix with wet ingredients right before baking.
How can I make these French Breakfast Puffs extra cakey or fluffy?
Be careful not to overmix your batter and make sure your baking powder is fresh. For extra fluffiness, you can separate the egg, beat the whites until stiff peaks form, and fold them gently into the batter at the end.
Are these puffs suitable for kids?
Definitely! These French Breakfast Puffs are sweet, soft, and flavorful without being overwhelming, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. The cinnamon sugar topping often makes them a family favorite.
Final Thoughts
French Breakfast Puffs are such a delightful way to start the day or treat yourself to a sweet snack. Their tender crumb, warm spices, and irresistible cinnamon sugar coating bring comfort and joy in every bite. I’m so excited for you to try making them and watch how quickly they become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
French Breakfast Puffs Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
French Breakfast Puffs are light, fluffy muffins infused with warm nutmeg and topped with a decadent cinnamon sugar and melted butter coating. Perfect for a cozy morning treat, these muffins blend a tender crumb with a sweet, crunchy exterior that pairs beautifully with your favorite morning beverage.
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup milk
Topping
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper muffin liners to prevent sticking.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
- Add the egg: Beat in the large egg thoroughly until fully incorporated, ensuring the batter is smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and the milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can make the muffins tough.
- Fill and bake: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar topping: While the muffins bake, mix together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside.
- Coat the muffins: When the muffins are done, allow them to cool slightly but while warm, dip each muffin top first into the melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the French Breakfast Puffs warm or at room temperature for a delightful sweet breakfast or snack.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter alternatives.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the muffins tender and airy.
- You can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze them for up to 2 months.
- Reheat muffins in a toaster oven or microwave briefly for the best texture before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 16 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: French Breakfast Puffs, cinnamon sugar muffins, nutmeg muffins, sweet breakfast muffins, easy baked muffins, cinnamon sugar topping
