Introduction
Step aside doughnuts—there’s a new morning favorite in town. These Cinnamon Sugar-Coated French Breakfast Puffs are delightfully soft, tender muffins rolled in melted butter and cinnamon sugar while still warm. A true throwback recipe, they have a lightly spiced nutmeg flavor and a texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re enjoying them with coffee or serving them at a brunch gathering, these puffs are a cozy, crowd-pleasing hit.
Why I Love This Recipe
- Classic old-fashioned flavor that’s simple and comforting
- Soft and fluffy texture with a buttery cinnamon sugar finish
- No yeast or frying required—bake and dip
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- A nostalgic treat that’s great for breakfast, brunch, or gifting
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- ⅓ cup shortening (or softened unsalted butter)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup whole milk
For the Coating:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Ingredient Notes & Swaps
- Shortening vs. Butter: Shortening yields a more tender crumb, but butter adds flavor. Both work well.
- Nutmeg: The subtle spice adds warmth—don’t skip it!
- Milk: Whole milk gives richness, but 2% or dairy-free options also work.
- Topping Tip: Want extra cinnamon kick? Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the coating.
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or use liners.
2. Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, cream together shortening (or butter) and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
- Add dry ingredients to the wet in batches, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined.
3. Bake the Muffins
- Spoon batter into muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden. A toothpick should come out clean.
4. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
- While the puffs cool slightly, mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
- Dip each muffin in melted butter, then roll generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm or let set before storing.
Tips for Success
- Coat while warm: The butter and sugar stick best when the muffins are just slightly cooled.
- Want a crispier edge? Use shortening in the batter. Want more flavor? Use butter.
- Try mini muffins for bite-sized treats—adjust bake time to 10–12 minutes.
- Don’t overbake—these are best when just golden and soft.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with coffee, tea, or warm apple cider.
- Pair with fruit salad or a yogurt parfait for a sweet brunch spread.
- Add a light drizzle of maple syrup or honey butter for extra indulgence.
- These are best warm, but also make a great afternoon snack with milk!
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze uncoated puffs and coat fresh before serving.
- Reheat: Warm in a microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving to revive softness.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy warm, nostalgic treats and cinnamon-spiced bakes, try these next:
- These Old School No-Bake Cookies Never Fail Me (and I’ve Made Them 100 Times)
- These Easy Pumpkin Spice Muffins Are My Favorite Fall Treat to Bake on Repeat
- These Copycat Neiman Marcus Chocolate Chip Cookies Are My Secret Weapon Dessert
- The Easter Cookies Everyone Will Be Talking About and Asking the Recipe For
- These Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs Are My Favorite Sweet Obsession
Final Thoughts
These Cinnamon Sugar-Coated French Breakfast Puffs are the ultimate blend of soft muffin and buttery doughnut—all without the deep fryer. Whether you’re baking for a brunch gathering, cozying up with coffee, or bringing a little sweetness to the morning, these nostalgic gems never disappoint.
Tried them? Share your puff-perfect bake and follow along for more classic breakfast bakes and sweet morning recipes!
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