If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug with every bite, the Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine thick slices of challah or brioche bread, lovingly stuffed with a dreamy cream cheese filling, then dipped in a cinnamon-vanilla egg custard before being pan-fried to golden perfection. Topped generously with that iconic crunchy cinnamon sugar coating, it’s everything you love about churros and French toast rolled into one decadent treat. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this recipe transforms ordinary bread into an irresistible indulgence that’s sure to become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal — from the creamy, sweet filling to the crispy, sugar-coated exterior.
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (such as challah or brioche): Choose soft, sturdy bread that soaks up custard without falling apart, giving you a fluffy inside and crisp outside.
- 4 large eggs: The foundation for the custard coating that soaks into the bread, adding richness and helping it set beautifully when cooked.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and lightness to the custard, keeping the French toast tender and moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: This natural sweet fragrance elevates the flavor wildly and brings warmth to the custard.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A subtle spice in the egg mixture that layers depth and echoing cinnamon notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors, ensuring nothing is one-dimensional.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying): For perfectly golden, crispy edges with a clean, rich buttery taste.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the stuffed filling, creamy and tangy, adding luscious texture.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling for a delicate balance without graininess.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for filling): Infuses the cream cheese with extra aroma and sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for filling): Ensures the filling ties in with the cinnamon theme perfectly.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: For the crunchy cinnamon sugar coating that mimics the classic churro topping.
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon: Mixed with sugar for that irresistible, aromatic surface crust.
How to Make Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Start by mixing the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and creamy. This tasty filling will add a luscious layer of sweet richness inside the toast, creating that unbelievable churro-inspired surprise.
Step 2: Assemble the Stuffed French Toast
Lay out your thick-cut bread slices and spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture on one slice. Top it with another slice to create a sandwich. Be gentle but firm, so it holds without squeezing out the filling.
Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. This custard bath will soak the bread, imparting moisture and flavor that holds everything together during cooking.
Step 4: Dip the Sandwiches
Dip each stuffed sandwich into the custard, allowing the bread to soak up the mixture on both sides. Make sure not to oversoak to prevent sogginess — just enough for a rich, even coating.
Step 5: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the soaked sandwiches into the pan and cook until both sides are deep golden brown and slightly crisp, around 3-4 minutes per side. This step builds that crunchy exterior that contrasts delightfully with the creamy interior.
Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the toast is still warm, immediately sprinkle the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon mixture evenly over the surface to mimic the churro’s trademark sweet spice coating. This final touch adds texture and extra flavor burst in every bite.
How to Serve Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe to the next level, top it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel or chocolate sauce. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can add bright freshness and creamy lightness that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside crispy bacon, fresh fruit salad, or a simple green smoothie for a meal that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. The contrast between the churro-inspired French toast and lighter sides creates a harmonious and memorable breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the stuffed French toast into smaller, stackable triangles or bite-sized pieces for a brunch platter presentation. Sprinkle each piece with extra cinnamon sugar right before serving to maintain that perfect crunch in every morsel.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of this delicious Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They’ll remain tasty but are best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange the cooled stuffed French toast sandwiches in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to one month, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisped back up. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that iconic cinnamon sugar crunch intact and avoid sogginess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While challah and brioche are ideal for their texture and flavor, you can also use other thick-cut breads like Texas toast or even a sturdy sourdough if you prefer. Just make sure the bread is thick enough to hold the filling without falling apart.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking?
It helps to use thick slices of bread and avoid overfilling the sandwiches. Press the sandwiches gently but firmly before dipping them in the custard, and flip carefully while cooking. Cooking on medium heat also helps prevent rapid melting or leaking.
Can I make the cinnamon sugar coating spicier?
Definitely! Feel free to adjust the amount of ground cinnamon or even add a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper to the sugar mix for an exciting twist on the classic flavor profile.
What drinks pair well with this churro French toast?
A rich latte, a spicy chai tea, or even a cold glass of freshly squeezed orange juice complement the Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe perfectly, balancing sweetness with fresh or warm notes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe that turns a simple breakfast into an unforgettable occasion. It combines the comfort of creamy, cinnamon-infused cream cheese with the crispy, sugary love of churros and the tender warmth of French toast — all in one bite. I can’t wait for you to try this at home, share it with friends or family, and create those joyful, cozy moments that good food always inspires.
Print
Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a delicious brunch treat with Churro Stuffed French Toast. Thick-cut challah or brioche bread slices are filled with a creamy cinnamon vanilla cream cheese mixture, dipped in a cinnamon-spiced egg custard, fried in butter until golden, then coated generously in cinnamon sugar. This recipe combines the warm, comforting flavors of French toast with the crispy sweetness of churros, making it a perfect show-stopping dish for weekend mornings.
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (such as challah or brioche)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
For the Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
- Assemble the French Toast: Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese filling onto one slice of bread, then top with another slice to make a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining bread slices and filling to create 4 stuffed sandwiches.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- Dip the Sandwiches: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Dip each stuffed sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure to soak both sides well but gently to avoid breaking the bread.
- Cook the French Toast: Place the dipped sandwiches into the hot skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as necessary to prevent burning.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: While the French toast is cooking, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish.
- Coat the French Toast: Once cooked, immediately roll each French toast sandwich in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating all sides evenly.
- Serve: Serve the churro stuffed French toast warm, optionally with maple syrup or fresh fruit on the side.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bread like challah or brioche for best results, as it holds the filling well and absorbs the custard mixture without falling apart.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar in the filling or coating.
- Cook on medium heat to ensure the custard cooks through without burning the exterior.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the bread with your favorite gluten-free bread.
