If you are looking to add a delightful twist to your breakfast or brunch, the French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine bite-sized pieces of fluffy brioche dipped in a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard, pan-fried to a perfect golden brown, and then generously coated in sweet cinnamon sugar. These charming heart-shaped treats embody both comfort and whimsy, making them ideal for sharing with loved ones or indulging in a little self-love. Whether it’s Valentine’s Day, a special occasion, or just a cozy weekend, these churro-inspired French toast bites bring warmth and joy to every bite.

French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the key to nailing the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this recipe. Each component, from the creamy eggs to the fragrant cinnamon, plays an essential role in creating those unforgettable French toast churro bites.

Brioche or thick white bread: Choose fresh, sturdy slices for the softest, fluffiest base that holds shape well when cut into hearts.
Large eggs: The binder that’s rich and helps form the custard coating on each bread piece.
Whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture so your bites come out tender inside.
Vanilla extract: Just a splash to elevate the custard with sweet, aromatic depth.
Ground cinnamon (for custard): Infuses the custard with warm spice that’s essential for that churro vibe.
Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Granulated sugar: Used in the coating for that classic sweet crunch on the outside.
Ground cinnamon (for coating): Works with sugar to recreate the irresistible churro crust.
Unsalted butter (for frying): Provides a rich, golden crust and helps cook each bite evenly without overpowering.
Heart-shaped cookie cutter: Turns your French toast into adorable, shareable bites that steal the show.

How to Make French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe

Step 1: Cut the Bread Hearts

Start by using a heart-shaped cookie cutter to carefully punch out hearts from each slice of brioche. This step is what makes the French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe so charming and perfect for any occasion centered around love and warmth.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard

In a shallow bowl, combine the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth and well blended, setting the stage for that luscious custard coating.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This sweet and spicy blend will coat the French toast hearts after cooking, giving the churro effect that everyone will rave about.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet and Butter

Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of unsalted butter. Ensuring the butter is hot enough helps create a golden crust without sogginess.

Step 5: Dip and Cook the Hearts

Dip each heart-shaped piece of bread into the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides fully. Let them soak for about 30 seconds for an extra crispy bite, then carefully transfer to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Add more butter as needed for subsequent batches.

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the bites are still warm, toss them immediately in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until every nook is covered. This step locks in the churro-inspired sweetness and texture, making these bites irresistible.

How to Serve French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe

Garnishes

The French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe really shine with the right garnishes. Drizzle warm chocolate sauce or caramel over the top for a gooey finish, or scatter fresh berries for a fruity contrast that adds vibrant color and fresh acidity.

Side Dishes

Pair these sweet bites with crispy bacon or a side of creamy yogurt to balance the sugar with some savory elements. A fresh fruit salad or a dollop of whipped cream also complements the texture, making the whole meal feel festive and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the heart-shaped bites in a decorative pattern on a platter for brunch guests or serve them stacked in a mason jar with skewers for a playful presentation. Sprinkling some powdered sugar or adding edible flowers makes the experience even more special and memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers from your French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. They’ll keep their flavor but might lose some crispness, so take care when storing.

Freezing

To enjoy these bite-sized treats later, freeze them on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They can last up to a month frozen without losing quality, perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated French toast bites in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crisp exterior. Avoid microwaving unless you’re in a hurry, as it tends to make them chewy rather than delightfully crisp like fresh.

FAQs

Can I use bread other than brioche?

Absolutely! While brioche offers the best texture and flavor, thick white bread or even challah can also work well. Just make sure the slices are thick enough to hold the custard without falling apart.

What can I use instead of a heart-shaped cookie cutter?

If you don’t have a heart-shaped cutter, any small cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut shapes will do. The heart shape adds charm, but the delicious flavor is the real highlight.

Can these bites be made dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap whole milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The texture may change slightly, but the flavor stays delightful.

How do I make the bites extra crispy?

Letting the dipped bread sit for about 30 seconds before frying helps the custard soak in more, resulting in a crispier crust once cooked. Also, frying at medium heat ensures even crispness without burning.

Are these suitable for kids?

Absolutely! These sweet, fun-sized French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe are perfect for kids’ breakfasts or snacks, especially during special occasions like Valentine’s Day. Just be mindful of allergies in your household.

Final Thoughts

I can’t encourage you enough to try this French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe. It’s a simple yet show-stopping dish that brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of fun to your table. Whether you’re treating yourself or surprising someone special, these bites deliver happiness in every cinnamon-sugar coated piece. Once you try them, I promise they’ll become a beloved classic in your breakfast or dessert rotation.

French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes Recipe

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4.2 from 49 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 12–15 bites 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

French Toast Churro Bites in Heart Shapes are a delightful twist on classic French toast, featuring bite-sized pieces of brioche bread dipped in a cinnamon-vanilla custard, pan-fried until golden, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture. Perfect for Valentine’s Day, brunch parties, or a fun breakfast treat, these heart-shaped bites are easy to make and wonderfully indulgent served warm with chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, or fresh berries.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Custard

6 slices brioche or thick white bread
2 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

For the Coating

½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Cooking

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Heart-shaped cookie cutter

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Instructions

Cut the Bread into Hearts: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes from each slice of brioche or thick white bread. Set aside the shaped pieces for dipping.
Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined and smooth.
Mix the Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; mix thoroughly to create the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Heat the Skillet and Melt Butter: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt and coat the pan evenly.
Dip the Bread Hearts: Dip each heart-shaped bread piece into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are fully coated but not soaked through.
Cook the Bites: Place the coated bread hearts in the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crisp. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the skillet as needed for additional batches to prevent sticking and promote browning.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Immediately after cooking, toss each warm French toast heart in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated, ensuring a sweet, crunchy outer layer.
Serve Warm: Serve the French Toast Churro Bites warm, optionally with chocolate sauce, caramel drizzle, or fresh berries to enhance the flavor and presentation.

Notes

For a crispier bite, let the dipped bread sit for 30 seconds before frying to absorb the custard fully.
These bites are best served fresh but can be kept warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve without losing their texture.
Ideal for Valentine’s Day celebrations, brunch parties, or as a kid-friendly breakfast dessert.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American