If you adore the warm, comforting flavors of churros and love starting your day with something sweet and indulgent, then you are absolutely going to fall head over heels for this Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe. This dish transforms a classic breakfast favorite by infusing it with the iconic cinnamon-sugar crunch of churros, paired perfectly with a luscious, tangy cream cheese icing that makes every bite feel like a morning celebration. Imagine golden, crispy edges coated in cinnamon sugar, melting into soft, custardy bread, all topped with a drizzle of velvety icing that takes it straight to dessert-level deliciousness. It’s the kind of recipe that invites smiles, second helpings, and a little bit of morning magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe is simple and accessible, yet each one plays a vital role in creating the dreamy texture and taste that make this version of French toast irresistible. From the rich eggs that provide custardy softness to the cinnamon sugar that delivers that unmistakable churro flavor, these ingredients come together in a perfect balance.
- 6 slices of thick-cut bread (brioche or challah): These breads have a tender crumb and soak up the batter beautifully without falling apart.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs form the base of the custard batter, binding flavors and creating that creamy interior.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds richness to the batter and helps achieve that silky texture.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with a warm, sweet aroma that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: The spice that’s essential for that churro-inspired flavor, mixed into the batter.
- 2 tbsp butter (for frying): Butter is ideal for frying to get golden, crispy edges and add flavor.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Used for the cinnamon sugar coating, giving that classic sweet crunch.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (additional): Mixed with the sugar to coat the toast after cooking.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: The star of the icing, making it rich and tangy for a luscious finish.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese icing without graininess.
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (for icing): Adds depth and sweetness to the cream cheese topping.
- 2-3 tbsp milk (for icing): Adjusts the icing’s consistency for smooth drizzling.
How to Make Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by whisking together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This mixture forms the delicious custard that will soak into your bread, imparting a rich, sweet flavor and that signature hint of warm cinnamon.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and the additional ground cinnamon. This simple cinnamon sugar blend is what transforms your French toast into that perfect churro-inspired treat, providing a crunchy, sweet coating that’s absolutely addictive.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Dip each thick bread slice into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are well coated but not soggy. Place the slices in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until each piece is beautifully golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. Add more butter to the pan as needed to keep a rich, buttery flavor going.
Step 4: Coat the French Toast
While the French toast is still warm, dredge each slice in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step is crucial because the warmth helps the sugar adhere perfectly, forming that irresistible churro crust packed with cinnamon sweetness.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. The cream cheese icing adds a luscious, tangy contrast to the sugary crust, creating a balance that makes every bite heavenly.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Place your cinnamon sugar French toast on plates and drizzle generously with the cream cheese icing. The icing slowly softens the crunchy cinnamon sugar layer, resulting in a rich celebration of textures and flavors. It’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or an extra dusting of cinnamon on top adds a final touch of elegance and flavor. Fresh berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, lift the dish with their bright, slightly tart notes, while a dollop of whipped cream ups the indulgence factor to pure joy.
Side Dishes
This French toast pairs beautifully with simple sides like crispy bacon or sausage for those who want a savory counterbalance. A fresh fruit salad or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice also work wonderfully to brighten the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your French toast slices high and drizzle the cream cheese icing between each layer for a show-stopping presentation. You can also serve smaller, bite-sized pieces with a side of warm caramel or chocolate dipping sauce to turn breakfast into a playful brunch party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover French toast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To preserve the crunchy cinnamon sugar coating, add the cream cheese icing fresh when reheating and serving.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked French toast slices by layering them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 1 month. Freeze without the cream cheese icing; add the icing fresh after reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, use a toaster oven or a regular oven at a low temperature to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy and the sugar coating less crunchy. Add cream cheese icing once warm.
FAQs
Can I use regular white bread instead of brioche or challah?
While you can, thick-cut brioche or challah breads are highly recommended because they absorb the custard well without falling apart and add a naturally rich flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Is the cream cheese icing necessary?
Though optional, the cream cheese icing is what truly sets this recipe apart and makes it reminiscent of the velvety sweetness you find in churros. It brings a luscious tanginess that balances the cinnamon sugar beautifully.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the icing. The flavor profile will still shine, although the texture might be slightly different.
How long should the bread soak in the batter?
Just enough time to coat the bread evenly on both sides, about 10 to 15 seconds per side. You want the bread to absorb some of the custard without becoming oversaturated and falling apart during cooking.
Can I prepare the batter the night before?
It’s best to prepare the batter fresh before cooking to ensure the eggs and milk are at their best for flavor and texture. Refrigerating the batter overnight could impact the custard quality.
Final Thoughts
This Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe is a brilliant way to brighten your breakfast routine or impress guests with something a little special. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavors that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a favorite in any kitchen. Go ahead and treat yourself to this warm, cinnamon-sweet morning classic that feels like a hug on a plate.
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Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing is a delightful twist on classic French toast. Thick-cut brioche or challah is soaked in a cinnamon-spiced egg batter, pan-fried to golden perfection, then coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mix. A luscious cream cheese icing is drizzled on top for an indulgent finish, making it perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
French Toast
- 6 slices of thick-cut bread (brioche or challah)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp butter (for frying)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined and smooth.
- Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly. Set this aside for coating later.
- Cook the French Toast: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter to coat the surface.
- Dip the Bread: Dip each slice of thick-cut bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated but not soaked to the point of falling apart.
- Fry the Bread: Place the coated bread slices onto the heated skillet. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crisp. Add more butter for subsequent batches as needed.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While the French toast is still warm, dredge each slice in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing lightly so the coating sticks well.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and pourable. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve the desired consistency.
- Assemble and Serve: Drizzle the cream cheese icing generously over the cinnamon sugar-coated French toast. Optionally garnish with fresh fruit or whipped cream for extra flair and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use thick slices of brioche or challah for the best texture.
- Ensure the skillet is at medium heat to avoid burning while achieving a golden crust.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and cream cheese with suitable alternatives.
- You can prepare the cream cheese icing ahead and refrigerate it; re-whisk before serving.
- Add toppings like fresh berries, sliced bananas, or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture as the icing may soften the cinnamon sugar coating over time.
