Churro Stuffed French Toast with Cinnamon Sugar

Churro Stuffed French Toast is the perfect fusion of classic French toast and crispy churros. It combines pillowy-soft challah bread, a sweet cream cheese filling, and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating. The result? A decadent breakfast or brunch dish that tastes like a café-style dessert but is easy to make at home.

If you’re a fan of warm, cinnamon-kissed churros or indulgent stuffed French toast, this recipe will become a new favorite. The crisp exterior and velvety cream cheese center make each bite irresistible. Serve it with fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an unforgettable meal.

The Inspiration Behind Churro Stuffed French Toast

French toast has been a breakfast staple for centuries, originating from the idea of repurposing stale bread by soaking it in eggs and milk before frying. On the other hand, churros, a popular Spanish and Mexican dessert, are deep-fried dough sticks coated in cinnamon sugar. This recipe takes the best elements from both treats and elevates French toast by adding a crispy, cinnamon-sugar crust and a luscious cream cheese filling.

This dish is perfect for brunch, holidays, or whenever you want to indulge in something warm, sweet, and comforting. Plus, it’s easy to customize with different fillings, toppings, and serving options.

Essential Tools for Making Churro French Toast

Having the right kitchen tools makes preparing this recipe easier and ensures perfectly golden, evenly cooked French toast.

• Mixing Bowls – For whisking the egg mixture and preparing the churro coating.
• Whisk – To blend the eggs, milk, and vanilla into a smooth, lump-free batter.
• Electric Mixer (Optional) – Helps create a fluffy cream cheese filling.
• Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle – Ensures even cooking without sticking.
• Tongs – Makes flipping and coating the French toast easy.
• Shallow Dish – Ideal for dipping the bread into the egg mixture.

Each of these tools plays a role in making sure your French toast turns out crispy, golden, and deliciously coated in cinnamon sugar.

Ingredients List

For the French Toast

• 2 large eggs
• 8-10 slices challah bread (or brioche, for a richer taste)
• ¼ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
• 1-2 tablespoons canola oil (for crisping)
• Non-stick cooking spray, as needed

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 5 oz plain cream cheese, room temperature
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon whole milk (adjust for consistency)

For the Churro Coating

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture will coat the bread and give it a rich, custard-like texture when cooked. Set aside.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth. The mixture should be spreadable but not too runny. If needed, add a splash of milk to loosen it or more powdered sugar to thicken it.

3. Mix the Churro Coating

In another shallow plate, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well. This will be used to coat the cooked French toast and give it that signature churro flavor.

4. Assemble the Stuffed French Toast

• Lay out slices of challah bread and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture on one side.
• Top with another slice of bread, gently pressing down to seal the sandwich. Repeat with the remaining bread and filling.

5. Cook the French Toast

• Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Lightly spray the skillet with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Dip each stuffed French toast sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are fully coated.
• Place the coated sandwich into the hot skillet and cook for about 2-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
• Repeat until all French toast sandwiches are cooked, adding more butter and oil as needed.

6. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

• As soon as you remove the French toast from the skillet, immediately roll it in the churro coating mixture, covering all sides. The residual heat will help the sugar stick perfectly.
• Set aside on a plate while you finish cooking the rest.

7. Serve & Garnish

Top with maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips for the Best Churro Stuffed French Toast

• Use Thick-Cut Bread – Challah or brioche holds up best to the egg mixture and cream cheese filling.
• Don’t Oversoak the Bread – Dip it quickly to avoid soggy French toast.
• Cook Over Medium Heat – Too high, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks. Too low, and it won’t get crispy.
• Coat While Warm – The cinnamon sugar will stick best if the French toast is still hot.

Variations & Customizations

Different Fillings

• Nutella & Banana – Swap the cream cheese for Nutella and add banana slices inside.
• Dulce de Leche – Use caramelized milk instead of cream cheese for an extra rich version.
• Peanut Butter & Jelly – A fun take on PB&J French toast!

Alternative Coatings

• Chocolate Cinnamon Sugar – Add cocoa powder to the cinnamon sugar mix.
• Coconut Sugar – Use coconut sugar for a deeper, more caramelized flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Dust with extra powdered sugar for a classic touch.
• Top with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• Serve with espresso or Mexican hot chocolate to complement the churro flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Churro Stuffed French Toast

Pairing your rich and crispy French toast with the right sides can enhance the flavors and balance the sweetness. Here are some delicious side dishes to serve alongside your Churro Stuffed French Toast.

Fresh Berry Salad

A simple mix of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries tossed with a touch of honey and lemon zest adds a bright, tangy contrast to the sweet and creamy French toast. The natural acidity of berries cuts through the richness of the dish.

Cinnamon Honey Butter Spread

If you love extra indulgence, whip together butter, honey, and cinnamon to create a soft spread for the toast. This adds an extra layer of sweetness and warmth.

Crispy Maple Bacon

The smoky, salty crunch of crispy bacon is a perfect contrast to the sweetness of churro toast. Drizzle with a little maple syrup for a sweet-savory bite that complements the cinnamon sugar coating.

Vanilla Greek Yogurt with Granola

For a protein-packed side, serve a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt topped with granola and a drizzle of honey. This adds a refreshing, tangy balance to the decadent toast.

Mexican Hot Chocolate

Churros and chocolate are a classic pairing. A warm cup of rich, spiced Mexican hot chocolate enhances the cinnamon flavor in the French toast.

Whipped Espresso Cream

If you love coffee with your breakfast, make a simple whipped espresso cream by beating together heavy cream, sugar, and espresso powder. A dollop of this on top of the French toast creates an elevated café-style experience.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

Drizzling your French toast with salted caramel sauce adds a sweet, buttery, slightly salty kick that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon sugar coating.

Toasted Coconut Flakes

For a tropical twist, sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the top. The nutty, slightly crunchy coconut brings a new dimension of flavor.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Calories & Macronutrients

Churro Stuffed French Toast is an indulgent breakfast, but it can be balanced with healthy ingredient swaps. Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: ~400-600 (varies based on portion size and toppings)
• Carbohydrates: ~50-60g (from bread, sugar, and filling)
• Protein: ~8-12g (from eggs, cream cheese, and milk)
• Fat: ~18-25g (from butter, cream cheese, and frying oil)

Ways to Make It Healthier

If you want to lighten up this dish while keeping it delicious, consider these alternatives:

1. Swap the Bread for Whole Grain or Gluten-Free

Using whole wheat or multigrain bread increases fiber and nutrients, making it a slightly healthier option. There are also great gluten-free breads that work well for those with dietary restrictions.

2. Reduce Sugar in the Filling & Coating

• Use monk fruit sweetener or coconut sugar instead of refined white sugar.
• Reduce the amount of sugar in the cream cheese filling and let natural toppings (like fruit) add sweetness.

3. Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Cream Cheese

Replacing cream cheese with plain Greek yogurt lowers fat content while increasing protein and probiotics. The result is a tangy, creamy filling with added health benefits.

4. Bake Instead of Frying

Instead of pan-frying in butter and oil, place the French toast on a lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Use Coconut Oil Instead of Butter

Coconut oil provides a lighter alternative with healthy fats while still giving the French toast a crispy texture.

6. Pair with Protein-Rich Sides

Adding Greek yogurt, eggs, or a protein smoothie helps balance the meal so it’s not purely carb-heavy.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even though this recipe is easy to make, small mistakes can affect the texture and flavor. Here’s how to get it right every time.

Mistake #1: Using the Wrong Bread

Why it’s a problem:
Thin, soft bread can become too soggy and fall apart.

How to fix it:

• Use thick-cut challah, brioche, or Texas toast for structure and absorbency.
• If using soft bread, slightly toast it beforehand to prevent sogginess.

Mistake #2: Oversoaking the Bread

Why it’s a problem:
Soaking the bread for too long makes it mushy and difficult to cook evenly.

How to fix it:

• Quickly dip each side for a few seconds instead of letting it sit in the mixture.
• Shake off excess before cooking.

Mistake #3: Cooking at the Wrong Temperature

Why it’s a problem:

• Too high: The outside burns before the inside is cooked.
• Too low: The French toast becomes greasy and soggy instead of crispy.

How to fix it:

• Cook over medium heat for a golden brown crust and even cooking.
• If using a griddle, set it to 350°F (175°C).

Mistake #4: Not Sealing the Sandwich Properly

Why it’s a problem:
The cream cheese filling leaks out when cooking.

How to fix it:

• Lightly press the edges together to seal the sandwich.
• Don’t spread the filling too close to the edges—leave a small border.

Mistake #5: Skipping the Cinnamon Sugar Coating Step

Why it’s a problem:
Without the churro coating, the French toast lacks its signature flavor and crunch.

How to fix it:

• Roll the French toast in cinnamon sugar while it’s still warm.
• If the sugar isn’t sticking, lightly brush the toast with melted butter before coating.

Tips for the Best Churro Stuffed French Toast

1. Use the Right Bread

Thick-cut bread like challah, brioche, or Texas toast holds up well to the custard mixture and filling. Avoid using soft sandwich bread, as it can become soggy and fall apart.

2. Let the Egg Mixture Rest

After whisking the eggs, milk, and vanilla, let the mixture sit for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and results in a smoother, more uniform coating.

3. Balance the Sweetness

If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar in the filling or churro coating. You can also use unsweetened whipped cream or fresh fruit to add natural sweetness.

4. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

Cook only 1-2 pieces of French toast at a time to ensure even heat distribution. Overcrowding lowers the pan temperature, leading to soggy and unevenly cooked toast.

5. Serve Immediately

Churro Stuffed French Toast is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet while the exterior is crispy and the filling is warm and creamy.

How to Store & Reheat Churro French Toast

If you have leftovers, here’s how to keep them fresh and crispy.

Storing in the Refrigerator

• Allow the French toast to cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between slices.
• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing for Later

• Place the cooled French toast on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat for Maximum Crispiness

Oven Method (Best for Large Batches)

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place French toast on a baking sheet and warm for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Air Fryer Method (Best for Quick Reheating)

• Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until crispy.

Stovetop Method (Best for Restoring Crispiness)

• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and warm for 1-2 minutes per side.

Microwave Method (Least Recommended)

• While the microwave is convenient, it can make the toast soft and soggy.
• If using, microwave in 15-second intervals and then finish in a hot pan to crisp up.

FAQs – Everything You Need to Know

1. Can I Use a Different Bread?

Yes! While challah and brioche work best, you can use:

• Texas toast for a sturdy option
• Sourdough for a tangy contrast
• Whole wheat for a healthier twist

2. What’s the Best Way to Keep the Churro Coating from Melting?

Let the French toast cool slightly before rolling it in the cinnamon sugar mixture. If it’s too hot, the sugar can melt and become sticky instead of crisp.

3. Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?

Yes! Substitute:

• Almond, oat, or coconut milk for whole milk
• Dairy-free cream cheese for the filling
• Coconut oil instead of butter for frying

4. How Do I Prevent Soggy French Toast?

• Use day-old bread instead of fresh
• Don’t over-soak the bread in the egg mixture
• Cook on medium heat for even crisping

5. Can I Prepare the Batter or Filling Ahead of Time?

Absolutely!

• The egg mixture can be stored in the fridge for 24 hours.
• The cream cheese filling can be made 2-3 days in advance and refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

Churro Stuffed French Toast is the perfect mix of crispy, creamy, and cinnamon-sugar goodness. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch, a family breakfast, or just a treat for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Enjoy it fresh, try different fillings, and don’t forget the whipped cream and syrup!

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