Easy Churro-Style Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Crust

Introduction

If there is one thing I’ve learned in my years of writing for Chefmaniac, it’s that breakfast shouldn’t just be a meal—it should be an event. This Churro Stuffed French Toast is exactly that. Imagine the iconic, crispy, cinnamon-sugar crunch of a street-fair churro, but combined with the pillowy softness of a cream-cheese-stuffed French toast.

It’s the kind of recipe that makes you want to crawl out of bed on a Saturday morning. While I love a good 3-ingredient egg wrap for those frantic Monday mornings, weekends are reserved for indulgence. This recipe takes the classic breakfast staple and turns it into a dessert-inspired masterpiece that will have your family asking for seconds (and thirds).

Why I Love This Recipe

What makes this dish a winner in my kitchen is the contrast in textures. You get that satisfying “crunch” from the cinnamon-sugar coating, followed by the melted, tangy richness of the cream cheese filling. It’s a versatile base, too. Whether you want to keep it simple or go full “over-the-top” with dulce de leche, it never fails to impress.

If you’re a fan of creative morning meals, you know I’m always looking for a twist—much like how this one-pan breakfast bake saves me from doing dishes, this French toast saves me from a boring brunch routine.

Ingredients

To get that perfect churro vibe, quality ingredients matter. Here is what you’ll need:

For the Filling:

  • 4 slices soft bread: Use thick-cut brioche, challah, or Texas toast for the best results.
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese: Softened to room temperature (whipped cream cheese also works great!).
  • 1/4 cup dulce de leche or Nutella: (Optional) For those who want an extra layer of decadence.

For the Custard:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt

For the Coating:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

For Cooking:

  • 2–3 tbsp unsalted butter

Swaps and Notes

  • The Bread: If you don’t have brioche, you can even use slices of chocolate chip banana bread for a truly wild flavor profile.
  • Dairy-Free: You can easily swap the whole milk for almond or oat milk and use a vegan cream cheese alternative.
  • The Filling: If you aren’t a fan of cream cheese, try a thick Greek yogurt filling similar to the flavors found in the viral cottage cheese pancake.

List of Steps

  1. Prepare the Filling: Spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese onto one side of each slice of bread. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle your dulce de leche or Nutella over the cream cheese. Sandwich two slices together to create your stuffed units.
  2. Whisk the Custard: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until perfectly smooth.
  3. Coat the Bread: Dip each sandwich into the custard. Give it a few seconds on each side to soak up the liquid, but don’t let it get so soggy that it falls apart.
  4. Fry to Golden Perfection: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the sandwiches for 2–3 minutes per side until they reach a beautiful golden brown.
  5. The Churro Finish: While the toast is still hot and buttery, immediately press each side into your cinnamon-sugar mixture. This ensures the sugar sticks and creates that signature crust.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Over-Soak: If you’re using a softer bread like brioche, a quick dip is all you need. Too much liquid will make the center “mushy” rather than “creamy.”
  • Heat Control: Keep your skillet at a true medium. If it’s too hot, the sugar coating will burn before the cream cheese inside has a chance to warm up.
  • Use Real Butter: Cooking oil won’t give you that nutty, toasted flavor that makes French toast so special.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

I love serving this with a side of fresh berries to cut through the richness. If you are hosting a brunch, pair this with a cold glass of refreshing blueberry lemonade to balance the warm spices of the cinnamon.

For a full spread, consider a “sweet and savory” balance by serving this alongside some crispy bacon or breakfast sausage.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 485 kcal
  • Total Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 62g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Sugar: 38g (Note: Values are estimates based on standard ingredients.)

Storage and Leftover Tips

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Avoid the microwave! To keep that “churro” crunch, reheat your French toast in a toaster oven or back in a dry skillet over low heat.
  • Freezing: You can freeze these (before the sugar coating) for up to a month. Just toast them up and add fresh cinnamon sugar when you’re ready to eat.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you enjoyed this decadent breakfast, check out these other favorites from the Chefmaniac kitchen:


Final Thoughts

This Churro Stuffed French Toast is more than just a recipe; it’s a reason to gather around the table. There is something so nostalgic about the smell of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the house.

Did you try this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below or tag us on social media with your breakfast creations. Don’t forget to follow Chefmaniac for more easy, delicious, and sometimes over-the-top recipes!