Save The kitchen counter was covered in tiny golden cubes when my roommate walked in, eyes widening. Are you making cereal she asked, staring at the skillet. Sort of, I said, flipping another batch. It was a rainy Saturday experiment that turned into our go-to comfort breakfast, something we ate standing up while talking about everything and nothing.
My niece came over last month and I made this for her breakfast. She took one suspicious bite, then immediately grabbed a bigger spoon. This is better than the box kind, she announced with milk dribbling down her chin. Watching someone discover that cereal can actually feel special and homemade is the kind of kitchen moment that sticks with you.
Ingredients
- Brioche or white sandwich bread: Brioche gives you that rich, tender crumb that soaks up the egg mixture beautifully without falling apart
- Large eggs: Room temperature eggs whisk into a smoother, more cohesive custard coating
- Whole milk: Creates the creamy base that makes each bite feel luxurious
- Granulated sugar: A little sweetness in the custard goes a long way toward balancing the eggy richness
- Ground cinnamon: Warm spice that makes everything taste cozy and familiar
- Pure vanilla extract: Dont skimp here because real vanilla adds that bakery quality aroma
- Unsalted butter: Gives you that golden exterior and slight nuttiness as it browns in the pan
- Extra cinnamon sugar mixture: This is what transforms it from good to absolutely addictive
Instructions
- Cube the bread:
- Cut each slice into neat half inch squares, keeping them as uniform as possible so they cook at the same rate
- Whisk the custard:
- Beat eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until completely smooth and no streaks remain
- Coat the bread:
- Gently fold bread cubes into the mixture, letting them soak for just a couple minutes so they absorb flavor without getting soggy
- Crisp them up:
- Melt butter in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook bread in batches, turning constantly until every side is golden and crunchy
- Coat in cinnamon sugar:
- Toss hot cubes immediately in the sugar mixture so it sticks and forms that signature coating
- Serve immediately:
- Pile into bowls and add milk or syrup while still warm for maximum comfort
Save My friend group has a standing Sunday breakfast pact now. We take turns making different things but this French toast cereal always wins the vote. Theres something about standing around the stove, picking at the warm cubes straight from the pan, talking about the week ahead.
Make It Your Own
Ive tried tossing in a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom when Im feeling fancy. Orange zest works beautifully if you want something brighter. You can also use challah or even a sturdy sourdough if thats what you have on hand.
Dairy Free Swap
Use your favorite plant based milk and vegan butter instead. The texture changes slightly but still delivers that satisfying crunch and warm spice profile. Coconut milk adds a lovely subtle sweetness too.
Serving Ideas
Beyond milk or syrup, try topping with fresh berries, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or even a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for extra indulgence. You can also stack these in a jar as a DIY parfait layer.
- Set up a toppings bar and let everyone customize their bowl
- These reheat surprisingly well in a 350 degree oven for 5 minutes
- Make a double batch because they disappear faster than you expect
Save Warm, crispy, and dusted with cinnamon sugar, this is breakfast that feels like a hug. Hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen too.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best for these bites?
Brioche or white sandwich bread works best, especially if slightly stale, as it holds shape when soaked.
- → Can I use a dairy-free substitute for milk and butter?
Yes, dairy-free milk and butter alternatives can be used without affecting the texture and flavor much.
- → How should the bread be prepared before cooking?
Cut bread into 1/2-inch cubes and soak briefly in the egg and milk mixture before frying.
- → What enhances the flavor of the egg mixture?
A pinch of nutmeg added to the egg mixture adds a warm, aromatic touch.
- → How are the bites cooked to achieve crispiness?
Cooked in melted butter over medium heat, turning frequently until all sides are golden and crisp.