Chewy French Toast Cookies are a fun twist on a breakfast classic, all packed into a cookie you can enjoy anytime. They have that warm cinnamon and maple syrup flavor that reminds you of morning toast, but with a soft, chewy texture that’s just irresistible. These cookies combine cinnamon, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla to make sure every bite tastes just like your favorite breakfast treat.
I love making these cookies when I want something sweet but with a cozy feeling, like breakfast in cookie form. One of my favorite things about them is how they hold together with a nice chew instead of being crunchy, which makes them perfect for sharing or packing in a lunchbox. Plus, it’s always a hit when I bring them to brunch or have them ready for slow weekend mornings.
If you want to turn them into a little dessert or snack, try serving them with a drizzle of real maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. They’re also great alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Honestly, these cookies are a little bit like a hug from your kitchen—warm, sweet, and totally comforting anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour is great here for structure. If you need gluten-free, a 1:1 blend works, but expect a slight change in texture.
Maple Syrup: This adds signature sweetness and moistness. You can swap with honey or agave if needed, but flavor will vary a bit.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices bring that classic French toast warmth. Freshly ground spices give the best flavor, but pre-ground is perfectly fine.
Oats: Old-fashioned oats add chew and texture. Quick oats work too, but avoid instant oats for better bite.
Butter and Sugars: Butter gives richness, and using both granulated and brown sugar balances sweetness with moisture. For dairy-free, use vegan butter.
How Do You Get the Perfect Chewy Texture in These Cookies?
Chewiness comes from balancing wet and dry ingredients and baking just right. Here’s how:
- Beat softened butter with sugars until fluffy to incorporate air and moisture evenly.
- Add maple syrup to keep dough moist and give that French toast flavor.
- Don’t overmix once you add flour; mix until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
- Baking time is key: 10-12 minutes makes edges set but keeps centers soft.
- Let cookies cool on the sheet a few minutes before transferring so they set properly without drying out.
These steps help create that chewy center and slightly crisp edge that makes these cookies special.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheets – essential for baking your cookies evenly; I use ones with a rim to keep cookies from sliding off.
- Parchment paper – makes cleanup easy and stops cookies from sticking.
- Mixing bowls – having a few sizes helps keep wet and dry ingredients separate and makes mixing easier.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer – speeds up creaming butter and sugars to a fluffy texture.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – helps portion dough evenly so cookies bake uniformly.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool quickly and keeps bottoms from getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mini chocolate chips for chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch that pairs well with cinnamon and maple.
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of fruity sweetness that balances the spice.
- Mix in a teaspoon of espresso powder to deepen flavor, creating a subtle coffee note I love in fall treats.
- Try white chocolate chips and shredded coconut for a sweeter, tropical twist that is especially good for spring.
Chewy French Toast Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup maple syrup
Extras:
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
- Additional cinnamon and sugar mix, for sprinkling
- Melted chocolate, for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10-12 minutes to bake. Allow an extra 5-10 minutes for cooling before serving, so total time is around 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Bowls:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set this aside for later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars:
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat the softened butter together with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and maple syrup to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
6. Fold in Oats and Optional Chocolate Chips:
Gently fold in the old-fashioned oats and mini chocolate chips if you’re using them. This gives the cookies extra texture and flavor.
7. Shape Cookies and Add Cinnamon Sugar:
Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Lightly sprinkle the tops with a cinnamon and sugar mix to give that French toast cinnamon toast feel.
8. Bake:
Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes. They should look golden around the edges while staying soft in the center.
9. Cool Your Cookies:
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Finish with Toppings:
Once cooled, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar. If you like, drizzle with melted chocolate and add a small dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.
11. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your chewy French toast cookies as they are, or with a side of maple syrup for extra sweetness. They’re perfect for snacking anytime!
Can I Use Frozen Butter for These Cookies?
It’s best to use softened, room-temperature butter for this recipe to ensure it creams well with the sugars. If your butter is frozen, thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using.
How Should I Store Leftover Cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to keep them chewy. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I Make These Cookies Vegan or Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil and use a flax or chia egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds + 3 tbsp water, mixed and rested) instead of a regular egg. Maple syrup keeps the sweet flavor intact.
What’s the Best Way to Add Extra Flavor?
Try adding a pinch of espresso powder to deepen the flavor or swap chocolate chips for chopped nuts or dried fruit like cranberries. A drizzle of warm maple syrup right before serving also enhances that classic French toast vibe.
