French Breakfast Puffs: A Delicious Morning Treat
French Breakfast Puffs are soft, muffin-like pastries coated in melted butter and rolled in cinnamon sugar. They have a tender, fluffy texture and a warm, buttery flavor that makes them the perfect morning treat. These delightful pastries are easy to make, require simple pantry ingredients, and can be customized with different flavors. Serve them warm with coffee or tea for an irresistible breakfast or brunch indulgence!
Ingredients
- For the Puffs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional, but recommended
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven & prepare the muffin panPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredientsIn a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Cream butter & sugarIn a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. This helps create an airy texture.
- Add egg & vanillaBeat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Combine wet & dry ingredientsGradually add the dry ingredients and milk, alternating between the two. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the puffs light.
- Fill the muffin cupsSpoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
- Bake the puffsBake for 20–25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the cinnamon-sugar coatingWhile the puffs are baking, melt the butter in a small bowl. In another dish, mix the sugar and cinnamon together.
- Coat the puffsOnce the puffs are slightly cooled, dip each one in melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve & enjoyServe warm with coffee or tea for the best flavor and texture!
Notes
- Make them ahead: These puffs can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Freezing option: Freeze uncoated puffs for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C), then coat with butter and cinnamon sugar.
- Flavor variations: Add mini chocolate chips, orange zest, or chopped nuts for a unique twist.
- Healthier version: Use whole wheat flour, reduce sugar, and swap butter for Greek yogurt or applesauce to lighten them up.