Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
If you love the idea of dessert for breakfast, then Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing is about to become your new favorite morning treat! Imagine thick, pillowy slices of brioche soaked in a sweet, cinnamon–spiked custard, pan-fried to golden perfection, then tumbled in a sparkling cinnamon sugar crust. The showstopper? A generous drizzle of tangy-sweet cream cheese icing that melts luxuriously over the warm toast. Whether you’re treating yourself on a slow weekend or impressing brunch guests, this recipe delivers comfort, nostalgia, and a little bit of magic in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing so special is how a handful of everyday ingredients transforms into something jaw-droppingly good. Each element from the fluffy bread to the luscious icing plays a starring role, so gather these with care for the best results.
- Brioche or Challah Bread (4 thick slices): Choose sturdy, rich bread—day-old works best for soaking up the custard without falling apart.
- Large Eggs (2): Eggs are the backbone of your custard, ensuring a creamy, rich texture.
- Whole Milk (1/2 cup): Whole milk adds body and helps create that classic French toast custard.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Ground Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon): Half goes in the custard, the rest in the cinnamon sugar for that churro magic.
- Pinch of Salt: Just a touch brings all the flavors into balance.
- Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, plus 2 tablespoons softened): For pan-frying and for making the icing rich and velvety.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup): Essential for that sparkly, crunchy churro coating.
- Cream Cheese (2 ounces, softened): The tangy base of your dreamy icing.
- Powdered Sugar (1/2 cup): Melts into the cream cheese for a smooth drizzle.
- Additional Vanilla Extract (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the icing’s flavor.
- Milk (1–2 tablespoons): Thins the icing to the perfect drizzling consistency.
How to Make Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing
Step 1: Whisk Up the Custard
Start by grabbing a shallow bowl and whisking together your eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. You want this custard to be smooth and fragrant, with the cinnamon swirling throughout—this is what gives each slice its flavor-packed base and irresistible aroma.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Take your thick slices of brioche or challah and dip each one into the custard, making sure both sides are well coated. Don’t rush! Let the bread soak up that cinnamon goodness for a few seconds per side—it should be saturated but not falling apart.
Step 3: Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat a large skillet over medium and melt the butter until it sizzles gently. Lay in your soaked bread slices and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, until each one is deeply golden brown and slightly crisped at the edges. This step locks in all that creamy custard and sets the stage for the churro finish.
Step 4: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While the French toast is still warm, mix the granulated sugar and remaining ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. Press each piece of toast into the mixture, coating it all over until you get that signature churro sparkle and crunch. The warmth helps the sugar stick and melt just a little for the perfect bite.
Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Icing
In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until totally smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then whisk in just enough milk to get a thick but pourable icing. The result should be creamy, tangy, and sweet—perfect for drizzling.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
Arrange your cinnamon sugar–crusted French toast on a plate and lavishly drizzle them with cream cheese icing. Serve immediately while everything is still warm and the icing melts right into the toast for that over-the-top brunch experience.
How to Serve Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy finish, while fresh berries or a handful of sliced strawberries bring a pop of color and tartness that cuts through the richness. For a finishing touch, a little extra cinnamon over the top makes every plate look bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair this decadent Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing with salty, crispy bacon or breakfast sausage to balance the sweetness. A big bowl of fresh fruit or a simple fruit salad keeps things bright and refreshing, and don’t forget a hot mug of coffee or creamy latte to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack slices high for a dramatic brunch centerpiece, or slice into strips for a playful, dippable breakfast board. You can serve individual portions drizzled with icing and topped with berries for a picture-perfect plate, or set up a “French toast bar” with small bowls of extra toppings so everyone can customize their own slice of Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the French toast cool completely, then layer slices between sheets of parchment paper and store in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps keep the coating crisp and the bread tender for up to two days.
Freezing
To freeze, lay the cooled, coated French toast slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep beautifully for up to a month, making it easy to enjoy Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing on any morning you crave a little indulgence.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 325°F for 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. If frozen, no need to thaw—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time. Drizzle with fresh cream cheese icing just before serving for that straight-from-the-pan magic.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of brioche or challah?
You can, but thick, sturdy bread like brioche or challah really makes a difference in texture and flavor. If using regular bread, let it dry out a bit before dipping so it holds up well to the custard.
Can I make the cream cheese icing ahead of time?
Absolutely! Whip up the icing and store it in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to use, let it soften at room temperature and whisk until smooth, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen it up.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute plant-based milk and use vegan butter and cream cheese alternatives. The result will still be delicious, with the same churro-inspired flavors.
What’s the best way to keep the French toast warm for a crowd?
Place cooked slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch. This keeps them crisp and warm without getting soggy before serving with cream cheese icing.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger group?
Definitely! Just scale up the ingredients and fry in batches, replenishing the pan with butter as needed. The cinnamon sugar and cream cheese icing can be made ahead in larger quantities.
Final Thoughts
This Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing is the kind of breakfast that makes any morning feel like a celebration. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or treating yourself, every bite is pure joy—warm, comforting, and just a bit over the top. Go ahead and give it a try; your breakfast game will never be the same!
Print
Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this delightful Churro Cinnamon Sugar French Toast with Cream Cheese Icing, featuring thick slices of brioche or challah soaked in a cinnamon-spiced custard, cooked to golden perfection, coated in cinnamon sugar, and drizzled with a rich, creamy cream cheese icing. This sweet breakfast treat combines the flavors of classic churros with the comforting texture of French toast for a perfect morning indulgence.
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 4 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Icing
- 2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (to thin as needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined.
- Soak the bread slices: Dip each thick slice of brioche or challah into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated but not soggy.
- Cook the French toast: Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the soaked bread slices and cook each side for about 2–3 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Coat with cinnamon sugar: While the toast is still warm, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. Press each cooked slice into the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating all surfaces evenly.
- Make the cream cheese icing: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk as needed, mixing until the icing reaches a drizzly consistency.
- Drizzle and serve: Drizzle the cream cheese icing generously over the coated French toast slices. Serve immediately while warm for best flavor.
Notes
- Best to use day-old bread as it absorbs the custard well without falling apart.
- For convenience, store-bought cinnamon sugar and pre-made cream cheese frosting can be used as shortcuts.
- Add fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of flair and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
