Preheat oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or nonstick spray.
Prepare custard: In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter.
Assemble muffins: Place bread cubes (and optional mix-ins like apples or berries) in the muffin tin. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing lightly to soak all pieces.
Bake: Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden and set in the center.
Serve: Let cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup. Serve warm.
💡 Tips:
Use sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or French bread for the best texture.
Prep ahead: assemble the muffins the night before, cover, and bake in the morning.
Add a crunchy topping: sprinkle a mix of brown sugar and cinnamon over the custard before baking.
If you want, I can also give you a quick 5-minute “no-fuss” version using store-bought muffins or biscuit dough — it tastes just like French toast but is even faster!
