Dessert

French Breakfast Muffins Recipe

Name: French Breakfast Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 cups all purpose flour; ⅔ cup granulated white sugar; 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; 1 large egg; 1 cup milk + 2 tablespoons milk; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

Bylina Carter January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

French Breakfast Muffins are a delightful morning treat that combine a tender crumb with a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping. These muffins are simple to make and perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.

The image shows thirteen round muffins cooling on a metal wire rack. Each muffin is golden brown on top with a light dusting of sugar that gives a grainy texture. The muffins are evenly spaced on the rack placed flat against a white marbled surface. In the background, there are two clear glasses filled with milk and a bit of a white plate holding cinnamon sticks is visible on the upper left. A light blue and white checkered cloth is partially seen on the lower left edge. The lighting is bright and natural, highlighting the warm color of the muffins. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all purpose flour
⅔ cup granulated white sugar

2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 large egg

1 cup milk + 2 Tablespoons milk
6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the oven to 375°F. Butter the bottoms (only) of a standard 12-cup muffin tin and set aside.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk the egg until frothy. Add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract and continue whisking until blended.

Step 4: Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour in the wet ingredients.
Step 5: Mix the batter with a spatula or wooden spoon just until evenly blended, then evenly scoop it into the muffin pan.
Step 6: Bake on the center rack for 15 minutes. Rotate the pan and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes, then remove muffins from the pan.
Step 8: While cooling, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
Step 9: Melt the 2 tablespoons of butter in a microwave-safe bowl and set next to the cinnamon sugar.

Step 10: Dip each muffin top quickly in the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar to coat completely.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter.
Use half whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture and increased fiber.

If you prefer a less sweet topping, reduce the cinnamon sugar mixture by half.
Serve warm with a spread of jam or honey for a delicious twist.

Storage

Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them longer, freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and warm briefly in a toaster oven or microwave before serving.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a single cinnamon sugar muffin with a bite taken out of its front, showing a soft and moist light beige crumb interior, topped with a grainy, slightly rough layer of golden-brown cinnamon sugar crust. The muffin sits alone on a clean white plate with a smooth surface, placed on a white marbled texture background. In the blurred background, there is another muffin on a wooden board with a green cloth, and a tall glass of milk. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use baking soda instead of baking powder?

Baking soda cannot be used as a direct substitute here because this recipe relies on baking powder for proper rise. Use baking powder as specified for best results.

How do I keep muffins moist?

Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make muffins dense and dry. Also, avoid overbaking by checking them at the minimum time suggested and removing when a toothpick comes out clean.