If you have a soft spot for cinnamon sugar and crave something warm and comforting in the morning, the Churro French Toast Recipe is a must-try delight. This recipe takes the beloved classic French toast and gives it a fun, indulgent twist inspired by the crispy, sugary churro. With thick-cut brioche soaked in a creamy cinnamon batter and coated in a perfect cinnamon-sugar mix, each bite offers a heavenly balance of crispiness and tender sweetness. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Churro French Toast Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtful ingredients. Each one plays a role in delivering that irresistible combination of creamy, crispy, sweet, and warmly spiced flavors that make this dish special.
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich custard without falling apart.
- 4 large eggs: The base of the custard, providing structure and richness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the batter.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Elevates the custard’s velvety texture.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard gently.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a lovely aromatic warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Essential for that authentic churro flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the batter.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating): Combines with cinnamon for the signature crunchy coating.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating): Mixed with sugar, it creates the iconic churro crust.
- 4 tablespoons butter, plus more for greasing the pan: Provides a golden crust and rich buttery taste.
How to Make Churro French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Custard
Start by whisking together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl until everything is smooth and well combined. This custard mix is what transforms the bread into a luscious, flavorful base for the churro twist.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of brioche or challah into the custard, letting it soak for a few seconds on both sides. The thick, sturdy bread absorbs the custard beautifully without getting too soggy, creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture you’re after.
Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon. Set this aside for coating the toast immediately after cooking — this step locks in the signature churro flavor and gives the French toast its delightful crunch.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt about a tablespoon of butter. Place the soaked bread slices on the skillet and cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Add more butter to the pan as needed to get a beautifully crisp and buttery crust.
Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Right after cooking each slice, toss it into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring every inch is coated while still warm. This immediate coating creates that irresistible churro-like crust that makes this Churro French Toast Recipe stand out.
How to Serve Churro French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple or dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm maple syrup, or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries also add a juicy pop and complement the cinnamon sugar perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with savory sides such as crispy bacon or breakfast sausage to balance the sweetness. For a lighter touch, fresh fruit salad or yogurt with honey are refreshing companions that bring brightness and contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack the slices slightly offset on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or chopped nuts for texture. You can also get playful by serving alongside a small bowl of chocolate sauce or dulce de leche for dipping, turning your breakfast into a festive treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Churro French Toast, place the slices in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick, indulgent breakfast.
Freezing
To enjoy this recipe on busy mornings, freeze the cooked and cooled French toast slices in a single layer on a baking tray, then transfer to a freezer bag after they’re solid. They’ll keep well for up to a month and thaw quickly when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Reheating
Reheat the slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes to bring back their crisp exterior and warm, fluffy interior. Microwaving is possible but may soften the crunchy coating slightly, so oven reheating is best.
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche or challah for this recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah give the best texture and flavor due to their richness, you can substitute other thick-cut breads like Texas toast or even a sturdy sourdough. Just make sure the slices are thick enough to hold the custard well.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can replace the whole milk and heavy cream with your favorite plant-based milk alternatives like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter substitute for cooking. The key is to use rich, creamy options to preserve that indulgent texture.
Is it better to use day-old bread? Why?
Day-old bread tends to absorb the custard without falling apart, resulting in more evenly cooked, custardy French toast. Fresh bread can get too soggy and may become difficult to handle without breaking during cooking.
Can I prepare the batter the night before?
Yes! Preparing the custard the night before can actually enhance the flavors. Just cover it and keep it refrigerated. When ready to cook, give it a quick whisk and proceed with soaking the bread and cooking.
What toppings go best with this Churro French Toast Recipe?
Classic toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, and fresh berries are always winners. For an extra indulgent touch, try drizzling caramel sauce or serving with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for a dessert-inspired breakfast.
Final Thoughts
This Churro French Toast Recipe brings a playful and delicious twist to breakfast that’s sure to brighten any morning. It’s easy to make but feels special enough to serve guests or treat yourself on a cozy weekend. Give it a try and watch as your kitchen fills with the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon and butter—a comforting hug on a plate.
