Thick slices of buttery French toast, pan-fried to golden perfection and rolled in warm cinnamon sugar—this Churro French Toast is a breakfast dream you didn’t know you needed.
There’s something magical about turning your kitchen into a churro stand…
Every time I make Churro French Toast, I’m instantly transported to childhood fairgrounds—where the smell of fried dough and cinnamon sugar filled the air. But now, I get to bring that joy to the breakfast table in a cozy, skillet-friendly way.
This recipe takes everything we love about classic French toast and elevates it with a crisp exterior and sweet, spiced coating. It’s crunchy on the outside, soft and custardy on the inside—perfect for slow weekends, birthday breakfasts, or when you want to wow someone without much effort.
Key Ingredients
Thick-Cut Bread
Brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best. You want slices that can soak up the custard without falling apart. Slightly stale bread actually works better—it absorbs more flavor without getting soggy.
Eggs
The base of the custard. Eggs bind the liquid and coat the bread, giving it that creamy interior when cooked.
Milk (or Cream)
Adds richness and helps thin the eggs to create a silky, soakable custard. Whole milk or half-and-half gives the best texture.
Vanilla Extract
Adds depth and that bakery-style warmth. Don’t skip it—it elevates the flavor dramatically.
Ground Cinnamon
Used in both the custard and the final sugar coating. It delivers the warm, cozy churro flavor we all love.
Granulated Sugar
Paired with cinnamon for that classic churro dusting. Roll the toast in it right after frying for best adherence.
Butter
Used to fry the toast—adds richness and helps create that golden, crispy crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Custard
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon. Mix until smooth and fully combined.
2. Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of bread into the custard, allowing it to soak for about 20–30 seconds per side. Don’t oversaturate—just enough for the center to absorb without falling apart.
3. Heat the Skillet
Melt butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the soaked bread slices in the pan and cook until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
4. Make Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the toast is cooking, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish or plate.
5. Coat the Toast
Immediately after cooking, while still warm, press each slice into the cinnamon sugar on both sides. The warmth helps the sugar melt slightly and adhere like a churro crust.
6. Serve Hot
Plate immediately for the crispiest texture, or keep warm in a low oven while you finish the batch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Churro French Toast stacked with a pat of butter on top and a drizzle of maple syrup or warm chocolate sauce. A dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar makes it feel like dessert-for-breakfast.
Pair it with fresh berries or caramelized bananas for a fruity contrast. For drinks, think café-style—serve with espresso, horchata, or a vanilla latte.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to restore crispness.
Freezing
Let slices cool completely, then freeze in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F until hot and crispy.
Reheating Tip: Avoid the microwave unless you like soft French toast—it won’t retain the crispy coating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Churro French Toast takes the familiar comfort of a weekend breakfast and gives it a festive, crunchy upgrade. It’s quick to make, absolutely indulgent, and full of nostalgic flavor.
Whether you make it for brunch guests or just treat yourself on a random Tuesday, it’s bound to become a new favorite.
Have fun with toppings, try stuffed versions (hello Nutella or cream cheese), and don’t forget to tag me if you try it—I’d love to see your twist!
Print
Churro French Toast: Crispy, Golden, and Dusted in Cinnamon Sugar Bliss
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 (8 slices) 1x
Description
Golden, crispy French toast coated in cinnamon sugar—like your favorite fairground churro, but for breakfast.
Ingredients
8 slices thick-cut brioche, challah, or Texas toast
3 large eggs
¾ cup whole milk (or half-and-half)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
3 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
Make Custard
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Soak Bread
Dip each slice of bread in the custard for about 20–30 seconds per side. Let excess drip off.
Cook Toast
Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook 2–3 slices at a time until golden brown and cooked through, about 2–3 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining butter and toast.
Make Cinnamon Sugar
Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
Coat the Toast
While warm, press each slice into the cinnamon sugar mixture on both sides.
Serve
Serve hot with maple syrup, chocolate drizzle, or whipped cream.
Notes
Use day-old bread for best texture.
For an extra twist, try stuffing slices with Nutella or sweetened cream cheese.
Reheat in a toaster oven for crisp results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 (8 slices)
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 43g
Keywords: Churro French Toast: Crispy, Golden, and Dusted in Cinnamon Sugar Bliss
FAQ
Can I bake Churro French Toast instead of frying?
Yes! Place soaked slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway. Brush with melted butter before tossing in cinnamon sugar.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use almond or oat milk and vegan butter for frying.
What’s the best bread to use?
Brioche is king, but challah, Texas toast, or even croissants work beautifully. Just avoid thin sandwich bread.
Can I prepare it the night before?
You can mix the custard the night before and pre-slice the bread. For a make-ahead casserole version, assemble in layers and bake in the morning.