Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie that tastes exactly like a warm, buttery slice of French toast—with hints of cinnamon, maple syrup, and vanilla in every bite. That’s exactly what you get with these French Toast Cookies! These cookies are the perfect blend of comforting breakfast flavors and classic dessert indulgence, making them a must-try for anyone who loves a twist on traditional sweets.
What makes these cookies so special? It’s all about the flavor and texture. The dough is infused with cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, giving it that rich, caramelized warmth you love in French toast. Then, they’re topped with a maple glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, creating a sweet, slightly crispy topping that perfectly mimics the syrupy goodness of a French toast breakfast.
Why You’ll Love These French Toast Cookies
There’s no shortage of delicious cookies out there, but these French Toast Cookies stand out for a few key reasons.
First, let’s talk about the flavor explosion. These cookies perfectly capture the essence of French toast—the warm, cinnamon-kissed sweetness, the buttery richness, and the hint of maple that brings it all together. They’re a cookie that feels nostalgic yet totally unique at the same time.
Then, there’s the texture contrast. The cookies are soft and chewy on the inside, with just the right amount of crispiness on the edges. The maple glaze adds a smooth, sweet finish, while the cinnamon sugar sprinkle gives a slight crunch, making every bite absolutely irresistible.
And finally, these cookies are quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. They require simple pantry staples, come together in less than 30 minutes, and can be customized with different mix-ins like white chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or even a drizzle of caramel. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast-inspired desserts or packing them up as gifts, they’re always a hit!
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 180
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
Ingredients for French Toast Cookies
For the Cookies:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon maple extract (optional, but highly recommended)
- ¼ cup milk
For the Maple Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions for French Toast Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and maple extract (if using). Then, add the milk and beat until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look slightly soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 7: Make the Maple Glaze
While the cookies cool, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. If needed, add a tiny bit more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches
Drizzle the maple glaze over the cooled cookies and immediately sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar for that extra French toast flavor.
Let the glaze set for 10 minutes, then enjoy!
Ingredient Background
The secret to these French Toast Cookies lies in the perfect combination of ingredients, each bringing something special to the table.
First, we have cinnamon and brown sugar, which are responsible for that warm, caramelized flavor that makes French toast so irresistible. Cinnamon gives these cookies their signature spice, while brown sugar keeps them moist and slightly chewy, adding a hint of deep molasses flavor.
Next, maple syrup and maple extract are what truly make these cookies taste like French toast. If you want the most authentic flavor, I highly recommend using pure maple syrup for the glaze. The extract is optional but adds an extra boost of rich maple aroma.
Then, there’s the butter and vanilla. These two ingredients create a soft, rich base that melts in your mouth. The butter adds flavor and structure, while vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and ties everything together.
Finally, the cinnamon sugar topping gives the cookies a slight crunch and mimics the dusting of cinnamon sugar you’d sprinkle on real French toast. Combined with the smooth maple glaze, it’s a match made in heaven.
Technique Tips for French Toast Cookies
To make sure your French Toast Cookies turn out soft, flavorful, and perfectly textured, keep these key techniques in mind:
For Soft & Chewy Cookies:
- Don’t overmix the dough—this keeps the cookies from becoming tough.
- Bake just until the edges are golden—they will continue to cook slightly as they cool on the baking sheet.
- Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smooth, even dough.
For the Best Maple Glaze:
- Sift the powdered sugar before mixing to prevent lumps.
- Use pure maple syrup for the richest flavor—avoid artificial pancake syrups.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if the glaze is too thick or more sugar if it’s too thin.
For a Crisp Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar immediately after glazing so it sticks well.
- If you want extra crunch, mix in a little raw sugar for bigger sugar crystals.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
While these cookies are already a showstopper, here are some fun ways to elevate them for special occasions or change up how you serve them:
1. French Toast Cookie Sandwiches
- Spread a layer of maple buttercream frosting between two cookies for a decadent sandwich cookie.
- Dust the edges with cinnamon sugar for extra crunch!
2. French Toast Cookie Ice Cream Sundae
- Serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of maple syrup.
- Add chopped pecans or caramelized bananas for an over-the-top treat.
3. Breakfast-Inspired Cookie Platter
- Pair these cookies with coffee, tea, or a caramel latte for a brunch-style dessert platter.
- Include other breakfast-themed treats like mini waffles, banana muffins, or cinnamon rolls.
Freezing and Storing French Toast Cookies
If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, here’s how to keep them fresh:
Storing at Room Temperature:
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place a piece of bread in the container—this keeps the cookies soft by absorbing excess moisture.
Refrigerating the Dough:
- You can make the cookie dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Let the dough sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before baking for best results.
Freezing Instructions:
- Freeze the cookie dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They will last up to 3 months.
- Bake from frozen—just add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time.
- Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave.
Healthier Twist Ideas
Want to enjoy French Toast Cookies with a healthier spin? Here are some easy swaps:
1. Reduce the Sugar
- Swap half of the brown sugar for coconut sugar for a natural alternative.
- Use sugar-free maple syrup in the glaze to cut down on added sugars.
2. Use Whole Wheat Flour
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients.
3. Make It Dairy-Free
- Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
- Swap out the milk for almond milk or oat milk.
Serving Suggestions for Events
These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving them for breakfast-inspired desserts or gifting them to friends.
1. Brunch Party Dessert
- Serve these cookies alongside waffles, pancakes, and fruit parfaits for a French toast-themed brunch.
- Pair with iced coffee or chai lattes for a cozy morning treat.
2. Holiday Cookie Exchange
- These cookies are unique and unexpected, making them a hit at any Christmas cookie swap.
- Package them in a festive tin with a mini maple syrup bottle for a cute gift idea.
3. Kids’ Breakfast-Inspired Treat
- Turn these cookies into a fun breakfast treat for kids by serving them with a glass of milk.
- Add a small drizzle of honey or peanut butter for an extra kid-friendly twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use pancake syrup instead of maple syrup?
I wouldn’t recommend it—pure maple syrup has a richer, deeper flavor that makes these cookies taste like real French toast.
2. What’s the best way to keep the cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a piece of bread to maintain moisture.
3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
4. Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Try adding white chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or even raisins for extra texture.
5. How do I make the glaze thicker?
Add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, thin it with a little more milk.
Conclusion
If you love the flavors of cinnamon, maple, and vanilla, these French Toast Cookies are a must-try! They combine the warm, buttery goodness of French toast with the chewy texture of a cookie, making them perfect for brunch, dessert, or a cozy treat with coffee.
So, what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch, drizzle on that maple glaze, and enjoy the perfect French toast experience in cookie form!