Soft, tender muffins coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping are what make French Breakfast Muffins a standout treat. Whether you’re looking for a delightful breakfast option or a sweet snack to share, these muffins are sure to please everyone. Their simple preparation and delicious flavor make them perfect for busy mornings, family gatherings, or even casual brunches. Plus, the irresistible aroma wafting from your kitchen as they bake will have everyone eagerly anticipating their first bite.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Muffins:
- For the Topping:
- How to Make French Breakfast Muffins
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
- Step 6: Bake
- Step 7: Prepare the Topping
- Step 8: Dip and Coat
- Step 9: Serve
- How to Serve French Breakfast Muffins
- Classic Pairing
- Sweet Additions
- Savory Complements
- How to Perfect French Breakfast Muffins
- Best Side Dishes for French Breakfast Muffins
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing French Breakfast Muffins
- Reheating French Breakfast Muffins
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make French Breakfast Muffins healthier?
- Can I use almond milk in this recipe?
- What can I serve with French Breakfast Muffins?
- How long do French Breakfast Muffins last?
- Can I add mix-ins to my muffins?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy mornings.
- Kid-Friendly: With a simple preparation process, kids can join in on the fun of baking these delicious muffins.
- Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert with a drizzle of glaze on top.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a delightful topping that complements the soft muffin perfectly.
- Make Ahead: Bake these muffins ahead of time and store them for quick breakfasts throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your French Breakfast Muffins, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: Provides the perfect shape for your muffins and ensures even cooking.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your wet and dry ingredients without any mess.
- Whisk: Helps achieve a well-mixed batter by thoroughly blending all ingredients together.
Ingredients
For this delightful recipe, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
For the Muffins:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup white sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup milk
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
For the Topping:
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup butter, melted

How to Make French Breakfast Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
1. Flour
2. ½ cup sugar
3. Baking powder
4. Nutmeg
5. Salt
Make a well in the center of these dry ingredients to prepare for the wet mixture.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together:
1. Egg
2. Milk
3. ⅓ cup melted butter
This mixture will add moisture and richness to your muffins.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the well of the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy; this will help keep your muffins tender.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the batter evenly into each muffin cup until they are about two-thirds full.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean.
Step 7: Prepare the Topping
While your muffins are baking, mix together:
1. ¼ cup sugar
2. ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Melt another ⅓ cup butter in a separate small bowl during this time.
Step 8: Dip and Coat
Once baked, let your muffins cool in the pan for about five minutes before removing them. Dip each muffin top into melted butter followed by coating them with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 9: Serve
Serve warm for the best flavor experience!
How to Serve French Breakfast Muffins
French Breakfast Muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a family brunch or enjoying them as a quick snack, here are some creative ideas to enhance your muffin experience.
Classic Pairing
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these muffins with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or snack.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside seasonal fruits like berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.
Sweet Additions
- Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds extra sweetness and pairs beautifully with the cinnamon topping.
- Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on warm muffins for added protein and richness.
Savory Complements
- Cheese Plate: Pair with soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese for a sweet and savory combination.
- Yogurt Parfait: Serve with yogurt and granola for a balanced breakfast that is both filling and nutritious.
How to Perfect French Breakfast Muffins
To ensure your French Breakfast Muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices. Fresh ingredients yield better flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy. A few lumps are okay!
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
- Cool Before Coating: Allow muffins to cool slightly before dipping in butter and sugar to prevent the topping from melting off.

Best Side Dishes for French Breakfast Muffins
French Breakfast Muffins can be complemented by an array of delicious side dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Scrambled Eggs: Soft, fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out the sweetness of the muffins.
- Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage links add a satisfying crunch and salty flavor.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of fresh fruits enhances the meal’s freshness and provides vitamins.
- Granola Parfait: Layered yogurt, granola, and fruit create a delightful texture that pairs well with muffins.
- Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie topped with nuts, seeds, or granola makes for a nutritious side option.
- Avocado Toast: Creamy avocado spread on toasted bread offers healthy fats that complement the sweet muffins.
- Oatmeal: A bowl of hearty oatmeal can round out your breakfast experience nicely.
- Cottage Cheese: This creamy side adds protein while keeping things light alongside the muffins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making French Breakfast Muffins can be easy, but there are common mistakes that might affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your egg and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter combine better.
- Overmixing the batter: Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins rather than light and fluffy ones.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing too much flour into your measuring cup. This ensures proper texture.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allow muffins to cool slightly in the pan before removing them. This helps prevent them from falling apart.
- Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your muffins as they bake. Every oven is different, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover French Breakfast Muffins in an airtight container.
- They will keep fresh for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing French Breakfast Muffins
- To freeze, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating French Breakfast Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm muffins for about 10 minutes. This keeps them fluffy.
- Microwave: Heat one muffin for about 15-20 seconds for a quick treat.
- Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make French Breakfast Muffins healthier?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour. Additionally, consider reducing sugar or using honey instead.
Can I use almond milk in this recipe?
Yes, almond milk works well as a dairy-free option. Just ensure it’s unsweetened for best results.
What can I serve with French Breakfast Muffins?
These muffins pair beautifully with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a drizzle of honey.
How long do French Breakfast Muffins last?
When stored properly, they last up to 2 days at room temperature and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I add mix-ins to my muffins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to customize your French Breakfast Muffins.
Final Thoughts
These French Breakfast Muffins are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They make a perfect breakfast or sweet snack any time of day. Experiment with different spices or toppings to make them your own!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
PrintFrench Breakfast Muffins
Indulge in the delightful experience of baking and savoring French Breakfast Muffins, a perfect blend of soft, tender texture and a mouthwatering buttery cinnamon-sugar topping. These muffins are ideal for busy mornings, family brunches, or as a sweet treat to share with friends. With their easy preparation and irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen, these muffins are sure to become a favorite. Kids can easily join in on the fun of baking, making this recipe not just delicious but also an enjoyable family activity. Serve them warm alongside coffee or fresh fruit for a truly satisfying experience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup white sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (lightly beaten)
- ½ cup milk
- ⅓ cup butter (melted)
- For Topping: ¼ cup white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, and melted butter.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; lumpy batter is fine.
- Fill muffin cups two-thirds full and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Cool slightly before dipping tops in melted butter and coating with cinnamon-sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 18mg