Lightly spiced with nutmeg and baked to a golden finish, French Breakfast Puffs get a double dip in melted butter and cinnamon sugar while still warm. These tender morning treats come together in just 40 minutes, making them an irresistible addition to a leisurely weekend brunch or a sweet start to any day.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy .
Ingredients for French Breakfast Puff
For the puff batter
- All-purpose flour – This is the base ingredient, so nothing fancy needed.
- Granulated sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Baking powder – Essential for getting that perfect rise.
- Ground nutmeg – Trust me, this subtle spice makes all the difference.
- Salt – Just a pinch to balance everything out.
- Unsalted butter – Softened butter blends seamlessly into the batter.
- Egg – Room temperature is key for even mixing.
- Whole milk – Again, room temperature works best here.
For the cinnamon sugar coating
- Granulated sugar – Coating the puffs with sugar creates that irresistible crunch.
- Ground cinnamon – This warm spice pairs beautifully with the sugar.
- Unsalted butter – Melted butter helps the coating stick perfectly to the puffs.
Cook Time for easy French Breakfast Puffs
I love recipes that come together without a fuss, especially on busy mornings. This French Breakfast Puff recipe is wonderfully quick, giving you that fresh-from-the-bakery feel in no time at all. They’re the perfect solution when you need something special without spending hours in the kitchen. For more quick baking ideas, check out my collection of healthy baking recipes that are just as simple and satisfying.
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
How to Make cinnamon sugar French Puff
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the mixture is uniform and no lumps remain.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat 1/3 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 large egg together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually pour in 1/2 cup whole milk and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine and Fill
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. The batter should be thick and smooth, with no dry streaks visible. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Prepare Coating
While the puffs are baking, mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Place 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter in another bowl.
Step 7: Coat and Serve
Remove the puffs from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 2-3 minutes. Carefully remove each puff and dip the top into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly. Serve warm.
Pro Tips & Tasty Tweaks
Over the years, I’ve learned a few secrets to making the perfect French Breakfast Puff. These little tricks come straight from my kitchen to yours, gathered from countless batches and happy taste-testers. Whether you’re baking for a lazy Sunday or a holiday morning, these tips will make your puffs unforgettable.
- Flavor Swap: Try adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice along with the nutmeg for a more complex spice profile that still feels cozy and traditional.
- Diet Tweaks: For a slightly lighter version, you can substitute the whole milk with buttermilk or a plant-based alternative. The tanginess adds a lovely depth to this fluffy nutmeg spiced breakfast pastry.
- Prep Fix: If your butter isn’t quite soft enough, cut it into small pieces—it’ll blend into the batter much easier. This ensures your easy homemade breakfast muffin with milk turns out perfectly tender every time.
- Storage Tip: These puffs are best enjoyed day-of, but you can freeze them before coating. Just warm them in the oven and dip in butter and cinnamon sugar when ready to serve. For more make-ahead ideas, explore my Christmas breakfast ideas that are perfect for busy mornings.
French Breakfast Puff
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1/2 cup whole milk at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar for coating
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon for coating
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted for coating
Equipment
- oven
- muffin tin
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, 3/4 cup sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and egg together until smooth. Gradually add the milk and mix until fully incorporated.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined. The batter should be thick but smooth, with no dry streaks remaining.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the puffs are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the puffs are baking, mix the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Place the melted butter in another bowl. Immediately after removing the puffs from the oven, let them cool for 2-3 minutes, then carefully remove them from the tin. Dip the top of each puff into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve the puffs warm, enjoying their tender, slightly crisp texture and sweet, spiced topping.
Nutrition
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Nutrition and Health Benefits
While these French Breakfast Puffs are certainly a treat, they’re made with simple ingredients that offer some nutritional value. I believe in enjoying food fully while understanding what we’re putting into our bodies.
The eggs provide protein, and using whole milk adds calcium and vitamin D to this baked breakfast muffin recipe. The cinnamon in the coating isn’t just for flavor—it’s been used traditionally for centuries and adds antioxidants to your morning.
For those watching their intake, remember that these are holiday morning pastries meant to be savored occasionally rather than everyday fare. If you’re looking for healthier everyday options, I love making my healthy muffin recipes that use whole grains and natural sweeteners.
You could also pair one puff with some protein, like my high protein breakfast recipes suggestions, to create a more balanced meal. According to nutritional experts, combining carbohydrates with protein helps provide sustained energy throughout the morning.
A Lighter Version of French Breakfast Puff
I’ve experimented with several lighter variations of this French Breakfast Puff recipe over the years, especially when I want that comforting flavor without the guilt. These tweaks maintain the essence of these easy French Breakfast Puffs while making them a bit friendlier to your wellness goals.
For a reduced-fat version, you can replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana. The fruit adds natural moisture and sweetness to this fluffy nutmeg spiced breakfast pastry while cutting down on saturated fats. I sometimes use this same trick in my cottage cheese banana bread with wonderful results.
If you’re watching sugar intake, reduce the granulated sugar in the batter by one-third and use a sugar substitute in the coating. The cinnamon flavor is so pronounced that you might not even notice the difference in this cinnamon sugar French Puff. For more inspiration on creating healthier baked goods, check out my gluten-free pumpkin bread which uses similar principles.
Thoughtful Tips for Special Diets
Over the years, I’ve baked these French Breakfast Puffs for friends and family with various dietary needs, and I’ve learned that with a few thoughtful adjustments, nearly everyone can enjoy a version of this treat. I remember my dear friend Marie, who is sugar-conscious, once told me how much she missed morning pastries until we experimented together in my Provençal kitchen.
For a diabetic-friendly version, I’ve had success replacing the sugar with a natural sweetener blend that doesn’t spike blood sugar as dramatically. You might try using xylitol or erythritol, which measure cup-for-cup like sugar but have a lower glycemic impact. Just be aware that these sugar alternatives might change the texture slightly of your soft baked pastry with cinnamon topping.
Another approach is to make mini versions of these easy homemade breakfast muffin with milk, creating smaller portions that are more suitable for those monitoring their carbohydrate intake. Sometimes, just a taste of something special is all we need to feel satisfied without overindulging.
How to Serve French Breakfast Puff
I’ll never forget the first time I served these French Breakfast Puffs to my family during our annual Christmas morning gathering. The scent of warm cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the house became as much a part of our tradition as opening stockings by the fireplace. There’s something magical about presenting a basket of these warm, sugar-dusted treasures to sleepy-eyed loved ones.
These buttery egg-based morning coffee cake delights pair beautifully with fresh seasonal fruits. In summer, I love serving them with sliced strawberries or peaches, while in colder months, warm stewed apples or pears complement them perfectly. The contrast between the sweet fruit and the spiced pastry creates a balanced breakfast experience.
For beverage pairings, you can’t go wrong with a strong cup of coffee or a pot of Earl Grey tea. If you’re serving these as part of a larger brunch spread, they work wonderfully alongside savory dishes like my buttery biscuits recipe or heartier options from my collection of Christmas breakfast ideas.
Presentation matters too—I always serve these French Breakfast Puffs on a beautiful ceramic platter or in a rustic wooden bowl. The visual appeal of that cinnamon sugar coating sparkling in the morning light makes them even more inviting. Remember, we eat with our eyes first, especially when sharing food with those we love.
Mistakes to Avoid
Over the years, I’ve made just about every mistake possible with these French Breakfast Puffs, especially when I was first learning in my tiny Provençal kitchen. Fortunately, these errors taught me valuable lessons that I’m happy to share so you can create perfect puffs every time.
One common mistake is overmixing the batter. When you work it too much, the gluten develops and creates a tough texture rather than the light, tender crumb we want in this French Breakfast Puff recipe. I gently fold the ingredients until just combined, much like I do with my best pumpkin muffins.
Another issue arises with the coating—don’t dip the puffs while they’re too hot from the oven. If the butter melts completely instead of creating a sticky surface, the cinnamon sugar won’t adhere properly to your cinnamon sugar French Puff. Let them cool for just 2-3 minutes until they’re warm but not steaming.
I also learned that baking powder loses its potency over time, which affects how these baked breakfast muffin recipe items rise. According to baking powder experts, this leavening agent should be replaced every 6 months for best results in fluffy pastries.
Finally, measure your flour correctly! Scooping directly from the bag packs too much flour into your measuring cup, resulting in dense puffs. Instead, spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This small adjustment makes all the difference in creating that perfect soft baked pastry with cinnamon topping we all love.
How to Store French Breakfast Puff
I’ll never forget the Christmas when my cousin Marie visited from Paris and insisted we make triple batches of these French Breakfast Puffs to share with neighbors. We quickly learned the importance of proper storage when dealing with large quantities of these delightful treats!
For short-term storage, place your completely cooled puffs in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about 2 days this way. If you want to maintain that just-baked texture, I sometimes place a piece of bread in the container—it absorbs excess moisture and keeps your easy French Breakfast Puffs perfectly tender.
For longer storage, these holiday morning pastries freeze beautifully. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to 3 months this way. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven, just like I do with my strawberry protein muffins.
To reheat, place the puffs on a baking sheet in a 300°F oven for 5-8 minutes until warmed through. This restores that wonderful fresh-baked quality to your buttery egg-based morning coffee cake. For more storage tips tailored to special diets, check out my healthy baking recipes guide that covers various pastry preservation methods.
Try This French Breakfast Puff Yourself
I truly hope you’ll try making these French Breakfast Puffs in your own kitchen. There’s something magical about transforming simple ingredients into something that brings people together around the table. I still remember the first time I made these for my husband—he declared they tasted like childhood memories and fancy French patisserie all at once.
Whether you’re creating new family traditions or simply treating yourself to a special morning, this easy homemade breakfast muffin with milk recipe is sure to become a favorite. The aroma alone is worth the effort, filling your home with the comforting scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and warm butter.
If you enjoy these, you might also love my snickerdoodle banana bread recipe which shares that same cinnamon-sugar warmth. For another quick breakfast option, my pumpkin protein bars offer a nutritious start to busy mornings. And if you’re looking for more European-inspired treats, don’t miss my lemon rhubarb loaf that captures the flavors of Provençal markets.
Remember, cooking is about joy and connection more than perfection. Even if your first batch of fluffy nutmeg spiced breakfast pastry isn’t picture-perfect, it will still taste wonderful shared with someone you love. That’s the real magic of these French Breakfast Puffs—they’re not just food, but edible love.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are French breakfast puffs?
French breakfast puffs are tender, cake-like muffins dipped in melted butter and rolled in cinnamon sugar. They’re a classic American breakfast treat despite the name, featuring warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon throughout the batter and coating. These baked cinnamon sugar muffin recipe creations are perfect for special mornings and holiday gatherings.
What is the name of the French breakfast pastry?
The specific pastry we’re discussing is called French Breakfast Puff, though in France you’d more commonly find croissants, pain au chocolat, or chouquettes for breakfast. This particular recipe is an American interpretation that captures the spirit of French patisserie with its elegant cinnamon sugar coating and delicate texture.
What is traditional French breakfast?
A traditional French breakfast typically consists of a hot beverage like coffee or tea, accompanied by tartine (bread with butter and jam), croissants, or other viennoiseries. While these French Breakfast Puffs aren’t authentic French fare, they embody that same appreciation for simple, quality ingredients transformed into something special, much like my cottage cheese bread recipe puts a creative twist on classic baking.
Can you freeze French breakfast puffs?
Absolutely! French breakfast puffs freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven to restore that fresh-baked quality to your holiday morning pastries.
More Cozy Breakfast Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed these French breakfast puffs, you might find yourself craving more morning treats that turn ordinary days into something special.
Here are a few of my most-loved breakfast recipes that never fail to make my kitchen smell amazing:
Morning Glory Oatmeal Cookies – Soft, chewy cookies packed with oats, raisins, and warm spices that taste like breakfast and dessert combined.
Pumpkin Spice Breakfast Cookies – Healthy cookies loaded with pumpkin puree and cozy spices, perfect for grabbing on busy autumn mornings.
Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits – Classic Southern biscuits with layers of buttery goodness, ideal for splitting and slathering with jam.
Protein-Packed Banana Bread – Moist banana bread with added cottage cheese for extra protein, making it both nutritious and delicious.
