Looking to give your morning routine a tasty twist? French Toast Bites are the perfect way to enjoy the comforting flavors of classic French toast—just in a more fun and bite-sized form. These golden, cinnamon-kissed cubes are an instant favorite for anyone who loves a quick, satisfying, and delicious breakfast.

What makes French Toast Bites so popular is their convenience and versatility. You can serve them up in just minutes, making them ideal for busy weekdays, weekend brunches, or as a kid-friendly snack. Plus, they’re super customizable with your favorite toppings and dips.

From toddlers to adults, everyone loves these crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside bites. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or prepping breakfast for one, French Toast Bites deliver all the comfort of traditional French toast—just in a more playful and modern package.

What Are French Toast Bites?

French Toast Bites are a miniature version of the beloved breakfast staple. Instead of full slices of bread, these are made by cutting thick slices into bite-sized cubes, soaking them in a flavorful custard, then pan-frying until perfectly golden.

While the ingredients are nearly identical to traditional French toast, the preparation and presentation differ. Instead of flat, plated slices, you get golden little cubes that are easy to serve and even easier to dip into syrups or sauces. According to Epicurious, using rich, sturdy bread helps achieve the perfect texture.

Speaking of texture, it’s one of the standout features of French Toast Bites: the crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, custard-like center. Every bite delivers that familiar sweet, eggy richness—just in a more poppable, shareable form.

Essential Ingredients and Tools

To make perfect French Toast Bites, you don’t need anything fancy—just quality ingredients and the right tools.

Bread Choices

Use thick, sturdy slices of:

Texas Toast
Brioche
Challah
Sourdough
Other artisan breads

Tip: Slightly stale bread works best. It absorbs the custard without falling apart.

Custard Mixture

Whisk together:

Eggs
Whole milk (or plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk)
Vanilla extract
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon (optional: nutmeg or pumpkin spice)

Cooking Essentials

Make sure you have:

Non-stick skillet or griddle
Butter for frying
Mixing bowls
Tongs or a spatula

For more inspiration, Allrecipes shares a classic French toast recipe that can be easily adapted into bite-sized pieces with clear instructions and user tips.

Optional Toppings

Customize with:

Powdered sugar
Maple syrup
Fresh berries or sliced banana
Whipped cream
Caramel or flavored syrups

These basics set the stage for mastering French Toast Bites that are crunchy, creamy, and packed with flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe for French Toast Bites

Making French Toast Bites is simple, fast, and incredibly satisfying. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to help you create the perfect batch every time.

Preparation

Cut the bread into small, uniform cubes—about 1 inch in size. This ensures even cooking and a nice crispy surface area.
According to Grits and Pinecones, using thick-sliced or day-old bread makes cutting and frying much easier.
Prepare the custard by whisking together:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon

Cooking Process

Dip each cube of bread in the custard mixture. Make sure every side is coated, but don’t let them soak too long or they’ll get soggy.
As highlighted by Grits and Pinecones, evenly coated cubes ensure a soft center and a golden crust.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt about 1 tbsp of butter.
Place the coated bread cubes in the skillet in a single layer. Fry until each side is golden brown, turning frequently—this usually takes 5–7 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, place the bites on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess butter.
Serve warm and dust with powdered sugar for a classic touch.
Offer dipping sauces like:
- Maple syrup
- Chocolate sauce
- Caramel drizzle
- Fruit compote

Tips for Perfect French Toast Bites

To get that ideal texture and flavor, keep these pro tips in mind:

Even coating is key: Make sure every cube is lightly but fully coated in custard. Don’t soak them too long or they’ll fall apart.
Maintain medium heat: High heat might burn the outside before the inside cooks. A steady medium flame ensures an even golden crust.
Use day-old bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better and holds its shape during frying. Fresh bread is more likely to become mushy.
Avoid overcrowding the pan: Give each cube room to brown evenly. If your skillet is small, cook in batches so you don’t steam the bites instead of frying them.

These simple steps will help you make crispy, fluffy French Toast Bites every time—with no soggy centers or burnt edges.

Creative Variations of French Toast Bites

Once you’ve mastered the classic version, try experimenting with fun and flavorful variations of French Toast Bites to match your mood or occasion.

Cinnamon Sugar Coated Bites

For a sweet and crunchy twist:

After frying, toss the hot bites in a mixture of:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
  
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- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
The heat helps the sugar coating stick, creating a crispy, doughnut-like texture that’s incredibly satisfying.

Stuffed French Toast Bites

Take them to the next level with sweet, melty centers:

Cut bread into thicker cubes, then make small slits in the middle.
Fill with:
- Nutella
- Cream cheese
- Strawberry or raspberry jam
Carefully seal and dip in custard before frying.
The result is a warm, gooey core inside a crispy shell—perfect for brunch or dessert.

Savory Versions

Who says French toast has to be sweet?

Add a pinch of salt, garlic powder, chopped herbs (like parsley or chives), and shredded cheese to the custard.
Fry until golden, then sprinkle with parmesan or serve with sour cream for dipping.
According to Epicurious, savory versions offer an exciting contrast to the usual sugar-loaded breakfast dishes.

Vegan Alternatives

Make your bites plant-based without sacrificing flavor:

Use almond, oat, or soy milk instead of dairy.
Replace eggs with:
- Mashed bananas
- A flaxseed or chia egg
- Vegan egg replacer products
Choose vegan-friendly bread and fry in coconut oil or vegan butter.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Make your French Toast Bites the star of your brunch spread with these perfect pairings and presentation ideas.

Dipping Sauces

Offer a variety of sweet and tangy dips to elevate each bite:

Classic maple syrup
Warm chocolate ganache
Fresh fruit compotes (blueberry, apple, strawberry)
Vanilla or berry-flavored yogurt

These add flavor, moisture, and fun for guests—especially kids who love to dip!

Side Dishes

Balance your plate with hearty or refreshing sides:

Fresh fruit salad with berries, melon, or citrus
Scrambled eggs or omelets
Breakfast meats like sausage, turkey bacon, or veggie patties

These sides complement the sweetness of the bites and create a complete meal.

Beverage Pairings

No breakfast is complete without a drink! Serve with:

A strong cup of coffee or espresso
Hot tea (chai pairs especially well)
Freshly squeezed orange juice or green juice
Creamy smoothies (banana, strawberry, or mango)

These combinations create a colorful, satisfying brunch plate that works for any occasion.

How to Store and Reheat French Toast Bites

If you have leftover French Toast Bites (though they rarely last long!), here’s how to store and reheat them to maintain their crispy exterior and custardy center.

Storage

Place cooled bites in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To avoid sogginess, let them cool fully before sealing them.

Reheating

Skip the microwave, which makes them soggy.
Instead, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, or use an air fryer for 3–5 minutes at 375°F for extra crisp.
Grits and Pinecones recommends air frying for the best texture, especially when reheating for guests or kids.

Freezing

Not recommended: Freezing causes the bites to lose their crispiness and turn mushy when thawed.
If necessary, freeze them individually on a baking sheet first, then store in freezer-safe bags—just know the texture may suffer.

By following these tips, you can enjoy French Toast Bites even the next day—almost as good as fresh!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to the most common questions about making and enjoying French Toast Bites.

What is the best bread to use for French toast bites?

The best choice is thick-sliced, slightly stale bread like:

Brioche
Challah
Texas Toast

These types absorb custard without getting soggy and fry up with a rich, golden finish.

Can I make French toast bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep and cook them in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge, then reheat in the oven or air fryer for a crisp texture just before serving.

Are there gluten-free options?

Absolutely. Use a firm gluten-free bread that holds up to custard soaking and frying. Pair with plant-based milk for a gluten- and dairy-free treat.

Can I bake instead of fry them?

Yes. Bake on a parchment-lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway. The texture is slightly different—less crispy—but still delicious and healthier.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

French Toast Bites are more than just a breakfast—they’re a fun, flavorful way to transform a morning meal into something special. Their versatility, kid-friendly size, and customizable flavors make them a favorite for families, brunch hosts, and foodies alike.

Whether you like them cinnamon-sugar coated, stuffed with Nutella, or even savory with herbs and cheese, there’s a version for every taste and occasion. The best part? They’re easy to make, even for beginner home cooks.

So next time you’re craving something comforting and creative, give French Toast Bites a try. Play around with your favorite flavors, toppings, and dips—and don’t be afraid to make them your own.

Golden brown French toast bites served with maple syrup and powdered sugar on a white plate

French Toast Bites Recipe

These French Toast Bites are crispy, golden, and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a fun snack, they're easy to customize with sweet or savory flavors. Serve them with syrup, fruit, or your favorite dipping sauces.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 10

Total Time 20

Course Breakfast, Brunch, Snack

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings (approx. 20–24 bites)

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

Cutting board & knife
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Non-stick skillet or griddle
Tongs or spatula
Measuring cups/spoons

Ingredients

4 slices brioche Texas Toast, or challah (slightly stale, cut into 1-inch cubes)
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk or almond/oat milk
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp unsalted butter for frying
Powdered sugar optional, for serving
Maple syrup or fruit compote optional, for dipping

Instructions

Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes. Slightly stale bread works best.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
Dip the bread cubes into the custard mixture, coating each piece lightly but thoroughly.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tbsp of butter.
Add bread cubes in batches, turning frequently, and cook until golden brown on all sides (about 5–7 minutes total).
Transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread to prevent sogginess and help bites hold their shape.
Don’t soak the bread cubes too long—just a quick dip will do.
For stuffed bites, sandwich Nutella or jam between two small cubes before dipping.
For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and flax eggs, and fry in coconut oil.
To reheat, use an air fryer or oven at 350°F for a crisp texture.
Not freezer-friendly—best enjoyed fresh or within 2–3 days.

Keyword breakfast bites, cinnamon toast, French toast bites, kid-friendly breakfast, mini French toast