French Breakfast Puffs

French Breakfast Puffs are a delightful pastry-like treat with a soft, tender interior and a crisp, buttery cinnamon-sugar coating. Often described as a cross between a muffin and a donut, these puffs are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light and fluffy with a cinnamon-sugar coating reminiscent of a classic donut.
• Simple ingredients and easy to prepare.
• Perfect for special occasions, holiday breakfasts, or everyday indulgence.
• A great make-ahead treat that can be reheated for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ground nutmeg
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Eggs
• Milk
• Ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
6. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
7. Prepare Coating: In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Melt butter in another bowl.
8. Coat the Puffs: While the puffs are still warm, dip each one in the melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
9. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 12 puffs
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Spiced Puffs: Add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Filled Puffs: Use a piping bag to inject a small amount of jam or custard into the center for a delicious surprise.
• Mini Puffs: Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized treats, reducing baking time to 12–15 minutes.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store French Breakfast Puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled puffs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh.

FAQs

1. Can I make these puffs ahead of time?

Yes, they can be baked and coated a day in advance. Reheat for a fresh taste.

2. What type of milk works best?

Whole milk is recommended for a richer texture, but you can use low-fat or non-dairy milk if preferred.

3. Why is nutmeg important in this recipe?

Nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon-sugar coating.

4. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Butter is best for flavor, but margarine can be substituted in a pinch.

5. How can I make these less sweet?

Reduce the sugar in the batter slightly or skip the cinnamon-sugar coating.

6. Can I bake these in a donut pan?

Yes, the batter works well in a donut pan. Adjust baking time slightly as needed.

7. What if I don’t have a muffin tin?

You can use ramekins or bake the batter in a small loaf pan, adjusting the cooking time.

8. Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, granulated sugar substitutes like erythritol can work in the batter and coating.

9. Are these similar to churros?

They share a similar cinnamon-sugar coating, but French Breakfast Puffs are softer and more cake-like.

10. How can I make these dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk to make this recipe dairy-free.

Conclusion

French Breakfast Puffs are a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch spread. With their light, fluffy texture and irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Simple to make and easy to customize, these puffs are perfect for celebrating special moments or making ordinary mornings feel a bit more magical. Enjoy them warm for the ultimate treat!

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