Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups

Name: Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 cups
Ingredients: 1 package of pre-made pastry dough; 1 cup of milk; 3 large eggs; 1/4 cup of maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Pinch of salt; Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Inspiration

I absolutely love starting my day with these Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups! They are a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making my breakfast not just nutritious, but also exciting. Each cup is filled with a warm custard-like filling that perfectly contrasts the buttery, crumbly crust. Whether I’m enjoying these on a lazy Sunday morning or prepping for a busy week ahead, they always bring a smile to my face. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, giving me more time to savor my coffee and enjoy the morning.

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:45:34.772Z

When I first decided to create these breakfast cups, I wanted to experiment with flavors that remind me of cozy mornings. The blend of cinnamon and vanilla creates a nostalgic aroma that fills the kitchen and warms my heart. I also found that a little maple syrup added to the filling enhances the sweetness without overpowering the spices, making the breakfast cups irresistible.

What really worked well was using pre-made pastry dough, which saved me time and allowed me to focus on perfecting the custard filling. I learned that baking them in a muffin tin not only keeps the shape intact but also ensures they cook evenly. Now, I can’t start my day without these tasty treats!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm and comforting spices that awaken your senses
Satisfying custard filling paired with a buttery crust
Perfect for meal prep or a special weekend treat

Techniques for Perfect Cups

When preparing the pastry dough, it's essential to roll it out evenly to prevent any tearing. Aim for about 1/8 inch thickness. If the dough feels too warm or sticky, refrigerating it for 10-15 minutes will make it easier to handle. Press the dough gently into the muffin tin, ensuring there are no air bubbles underneath; this helps in achieving a nice, even crust during baking.

Ensure your custard mixture is well-whisked, as this incorporates air, giving the filling a light and fluffy texture. When combining the milk, eggs, and other ingredients, whisk until the mixture is glossy and uniform, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps to avoid a grainy texture in the final product.

Ingredient Insights

The maple syrup in this recipe not only sweetens the custard but also adds a depth of flavor that complements the spices. If you don't have maple syrup, honey or agave syrup can be used as alternatives, but keep in mind that they might alter the final taste slightly. If you prefer a lower-sugar option, try reducing the amount of syrup or using a sugar substitute suitable for baking.

Cinnamon and nutmeg play vital roles in flavoring the breakfast cups, delivering warmth and coziness. Freshly grated nutmeg is ideal for a more vibrant flavor, but ground nutmeg works well if that’s what you have on hand. Use high-quality cinnamon for the best results; it can significantly enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the delicious breakfast cups:

Ingredients for Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups

1 package of pre-made pastry dough
1 cup of milk
3 large eggs
1/4 cup of maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Pinch of salt
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you can start preparing these delightful cups!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your breakfast cups:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Pastry Dough

Roll out the pastry dough and cut it into circles that fit in your muffin tin. Press the dough into each muffin cup, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

Fill the Cups

Pour the custard mixture evenly into each pastry-lined muffin cup, filling them about three-quarters full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the filling is set and the pastry is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the cups cool for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Enjoy these delicious breakfast cups warm for a delightful start to your day!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or dried fruits into the custard mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These breakfast cups can be prepared ahead of time, making mornings hassle-free. After baking them, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

If you're meal prepping, consider doubling the recipe. The custard filling can be made in advance and stored separately from the pastry. You can then quickly fill and bake the cups when ready, ensuring you always have a warm breakfast option on hand.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These breakfast cups are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt. Berries or sliced bananas make great toppings, adding freshness that balances the warm spices well. A drizzle of additional maple syrup can also enhance the flavor if you prefer something sweeter.

For a twist, experiment with different spices or extracts. Try adding a pinch of ginger or using almond extract instead of vanilla for a different profile. You could also mix in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the custard for added texture and richness. Each variation opens up new flavor possibilities while keeping the spirit of the original recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade pastry dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dough can add a personal touch to the recipe.

→ What can I substitute for maple syrup?

You can use honey or agave syrup as an alternative sweetener.

→ How can I store leftover cups?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these breakfast cups?

Yes, they freeze well! Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.