If you love the cozy flavors of French toast, just wait until you try them in cookie form! These Chewy French Toast Cookies bring all the warmth and sweetness of your favorite breakfast to a soft, chewy cookie that’s perfect any time of day. With comforting notes of maple, vanilla, and warm spices, this unique recipe turns a breakfast classic into a delightful dessert.
🧈 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) light brown sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/2 cup (120ml) light corn syrup
- 2 tsp (10ml) pure vanilla extract
- 2 tsp (10ml) maple extract or 1 tbsp pure maple syrup
- 2 1/3 cups (292g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (5g) ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp (2.5g) ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
- 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar (for rolling)
⏱ Timing
| Prep Time | Bake Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 10–12 mins | 25–27 mins |
👩🍳 How to Make Chewy French Toast Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg yolk, corn syrup, vanilla, and maple extract (or maple syrup). Scrape down the sides and beat until smooth.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until combined—don’t overmix.
Step 6: Shape and Roll
Scoop dough into 1.5-inch (3.8 cm) balls. Roll each ball in the remaining granulated sugar.
Step 7: Arrange and Bake
Place dough balls on the baking sheets about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until set but still soft in the center.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
💡 Tips for Perfectly Chewy Cookies
- Corn Syrup = Chewy Goodness: It helps retain moisture for that soft, chewy texture.
- Don’t Overbake: Cookies should look slightly underdone when you pull them out. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- Use Brown Sugar: Its molasses content boosts both flavor and moisture.
- Cream Well: Properly creaming butter and sugar helps make cookies tender.
- Mix Gently: Overmixing toughens cookies. Stop once your dough just comes together.
🍪 How to Serve Them
These cookies are wonderfully versatile! Here are a few ways to enjoy them:
- Morning Treat: Pair with coffee or tea for a sweet breakfast bite.
- Dessert Idea: Serve with vanilla ice cream or drizzle with warm maple syrup.
- Snack Time: A perfect addition to lunchboxes or for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Gifting: Package in a cute tin or bag for a cozy homemade gift.
🔄 Variations and Substitutes
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
- Vegan-Friendly: Sub egg yolk with a flax egg and swap in vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Spice Swap: Replace nutmeg with ginger or cardamom for a twist.
- Extra Maple: Add 1–2 extra tablespoons of pure maple syrup for bolder flavor.
🔢 Nutritional Info (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Carbs: 22g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use maple syrup instead of maple extract?
Yes! Use 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup, though the flavor will be milder than with extract.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. Chill in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
How do I store baked cookies?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Add a slice of bread to help maintain moisture.
Can I use salted butter?
You can, but reduce or omit the added salt to keep the flavor balanced.
Can I add mix-ins?
Sure! Try chocolate chips, chopped pecans, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.
🧁 Final Thoughts
These Chewy French Toast Cookies are the best of both worlds—warm, cozy flavors in a soft and chewy cookie. Whether you’re baking a weekend treat, looking for something new for brunch, or making a sweet homemade gift, this recipe is a must-try. Easy to make and endlessly adaptable, they’re sure to become a household favorite.