If you’re ready to turn breakfast into a party, Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast is the ultimate treat. Imagine your favorite glazed donuts, a little past their prime, given new life as pillowy, golden French toast with a fragrant hint of cinnamon and vanilla. Each bite is a blend of nostalgic bakery sweetness and the custardy comfort of French toast, making this dish a wonderful way to elevate weekend mornings or surprise folks at a special brunch.

Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast lies in its short but flavor-packed ingredient list. Each element plays a key role: from the rich, creamy base to the zing of cinnamon and the unmistakable vanilla. Together, they’ll transform humble day-old donuts into a showstopping breakfast.

Glazed donuts (3, day-old, sliced in half): Older donuts soak up the custard just right without falling apart, and their glaze adds a sweet, caramelized edge.
Large egg (1): The egg gives our custard its classic texture and ensures your French toast holds together.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings a warm, spicy note that pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Offers richness and moisture, giving the French toast its signature custardy interior.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds aromatic sweetness and depth that makes everything taste homemade.

How to Make Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast

Step 1: Make the Custard

Start by whisking up your custard base. In a small bowl, combine the egg, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Beat everything together until the mixture is light and frothy. The cinnamon will bring flecks of spice, while the vanilla and cream will set the stage for that irresistibly decadent flavor at the heart of Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast.

Step 2: Dip the Donuts

This step is where the transformation begins! Take each donut half and dip it gently into the custard mixture, making sure it gets evenly coated. Because donuts are more delicate than bread, just a quick dip—one to two seconds per side—is enough. Letting them sit too long will turn them to mush, so work quickly and carefully for French toast that keeps its shape and texture.

Step 3: Cook Until Golden

Place a nonstick griddle or skillet over medium heat and give it a light greasing to prevent sticking. Set your soaked donut halves on the hot surface and cook until they’re beautifully golden on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Watch for that lovely caramel brown color on the edges—your Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast is almost ready to devour!

Step 4: Serve While Hot

Transfer your golden slices straight to a plate and serve immediately. You’ll want to enjoy Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast while it’s warm and pillowy, with a drizzle of syrup or honey for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast

Garnishes

A little flair goes a long way. Try dusting your French toast with powdered sugar for a classic look, or add a swirl of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Fresh berries or sliced bananas add brightness, while a light drizzle of maple syrup or honey will complement the glazed donut’s sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

Since this is a treat, balance things out with some savory sides. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage plays well with the sweetness and adds a bit of saltiness, while a fresh fruit salad or a simple bowl of Greek yogurt can lighten things up and make the breakfast spread feel more complete.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, stack your Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast slices high and tuck berries between layers for a colorful, brunch-worthy centerpiece. Try cutting the slices into strips and serving them as dippable “French toast sticks” with little cups of syrup. Or, make it extra-special by turning it into a luscious breakfast sandwich with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of mascarpone.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you somehow end up with leftovers (which is rare!), store your Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within two days—any longer and the texture of the donuts may become overly soft.

Freezing

You can freeze this French toast for future cravings, but be sure to let the slices cool completely before wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month. When ready to eat, let thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, place slices in a nonstick skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or pop them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make the donuts soggy—instead, opt for gentle reheating for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh donuts instead of day-old ones?

Day-old donuts soak up the custard without falling apart, giving that perfect French toast texture. If you only have fresh donuts, let them sit out uncovered for a few hours or pop them in a low oven to dry slightly before starting.

What type of glazed donuts work best?

Classic yeast-raised glazed donuts are ideal for Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast. Cake donuts are a bit denser and can work in a pinch, but you may need to shorten the soak time to prevent them from crumbling.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the heavy cream for your favorite thick plant-based milk (like coconut cream or a creamy oat milk), and make sure your donuts don’t contain dairy for a fully dairy-free treat.

Is there a way to prep this ahead for guests?

You can whisk the custard the night before and have your donuts sliced and ready. When it’s time to serve, dip and cook the donuts fresh so they don’t get soggy or lose their texture.

Can I make a large batch for a crowd?

Yes! Simply double or triple the ingredients, use a large griddle, and keep cooked slices warm in a low oven while you work through the batch. Your friends will be amazed by your Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast buffet!

Final Thoughts

If you’re in the mood for a breakfast worth celebrating, Cinnamon Glazed Donut French Toast is a must-try. It’s indulgent, easy, and sure to make you the hero of any brunch. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new favorite way to use leftover donuts—give it a whirl and see how impossibly delicious your mornings can be!