Cinnamon French Toast Waffles

There’s something magically comforting about the warm aroma of cinnamon and the sweet, custardy flavor of French toast. Now imagine all that goodness in the crispy, golden form of a waffle—this is Cinnamon French Toast Waffles, a breakfast game-changer. Perfectly spiced and easy to whip up, these waffles bring together the best of both worlds: the fluffy texture of French toast with the satisfying crunch of waffles. Whether you’re cooking for a lazy weekend brunch or a special occasion, this recipe will elevate your mornings to something truly special.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Cinnamon French Toast Waffles are a delightful twist on two classic breakfast favorites. They’re incredibly easy to make and require just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. The cinnamon adds a warm, cozy spice that pairs beautifully with the sweet custard-soaked bread. Plus, making them in a waffle iron means you get a perfectly crispy exterior with a soft, tender center every time.

What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility and quick prep time. You can customize toppings to suit your mood—think fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a wonderful way to treat yourself or your family to a comforting breakfast that feels like a special occasion without the fuss.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole, almond, or oat milk for a dairy-free option)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar or coconut sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• Pinch of salt
• 8 slices of thick bread (brioche, challah, or any white bread)
• Butter or oil for greasing the waffle iron
• Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for serving

How To Make Cinnamon French Toast Waffles

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a shallow bowl or a wide dish, crack the eggs and whisk them until combined. Add the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

Step 2: Preheat the Waffle Iron

Turn on your waffle iron and allow it to fully preheat. Lightly grease the waffle iron plates with butter or oil to prevent sticking and to give your waffles that perfect golden crust.

Step 3: Dip the Bread

Take one slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Let it soak for about 10-15 seconds on each side, ensuring it absorbs enough custard but doesn’t become too soggy.

Step 4: Cook the Waffles

Place the soaked bread slice onto the preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for about 3-5 minutes or until the waffle is golden brown and crispy. Cooking time may vary depending on your waffle iron, so keep an eye on the color and texture.

Step 5: Serve

Remove the waffle from the iron and serve immediately. Top with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream. Repeat the process with the remaining bread slices.

Expert Tips

• Use thick slices of bread for the best texture. Brioche or challah work wonderfully because they soak up the custard without falling apart.
• Don’t oversoak the bread in the egg mixture; a quick dip on both sides is enough to keep the waffles light and crispy.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of orange zest or a pinch of ground cardamom to the batter.
• Make sure your waffle iron is fully heated before cooking to ensure crispy edges.
• If you want to keep waffles warm while making the rest, place them on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F/95°C).
• Try using a non-stick cooking spray if you prefer over butter or oil for greasing the waffle iron.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Chip Cinnamon French Toast Waffles: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips onto the batter-soaked bread before cooking for a sweet surprise.
• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk.
• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the egg mixture for a more complex spice profile.
• Fruit-Infused: Add thinly sliced apples or pears on top of the batter-soaked bread before cooking for a fruity twist.
• Savory Twist: Omit the sugar and cinnamon, add a pinch of salt and pepper, and top with cheese or avocado after cooking.
• Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter or sprinkle on top after cooking for extra crunch.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover Cinnamon French Toast Waffles, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster or toaster oven for a few minutes until warm and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the waffles soggy.

For longer storage, freeze the waffles by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from the freezer in a toaster or oven for best results.

FAQ

Can I use any type of bread for these waffles?

Yes, you can use any bread you like, but thick, sturdy breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best. They hold up well to soaking and create a nice texture. Avoid very thin or delicate breads as they may fall apart.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply swap out regular milk for your favorite plant-based milk such as almond, oat, or soy milk. Use dairy-free butter or oil to grease your waffle iron. The recipe works perfectly with these substitutions.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated. However, it’s best to soak and cook the bread slices just before serving to maintain the optimal texture and crispiness of the waffles.

What toppings pair well with Cinnamon French Toast Waffles?

Classic toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, sliced bananas, or whipped cream work beautifully. You can also get creative with nut butters, honey, yogurt, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Conclusion

Cinnamon French Toast Waffles are a delightful way to start your day with a cozy, flavorful breakfast that’s surprisingly simple to make. Combining the creamy custard of traditional French toast with the crisp texture of waffles, this recipe is perfect for weekend mornings or any time you want a special treat. With endless customization options and easy storage, it’s a versatile recipe that will quickly become a favorite in your breakfast rotation. So, fire up your waffle iron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a warm, cinnamon-kissed breakfast that’s sure to bring smiles around the table.