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This golden treat in a mug is just right for busy mornings or when you want a cozy breakfast that's easy to throw together. It takes about five minutes, and you've got a warm, sweet bite that feels like Sunday brunch but with way less work.
I came across this idea on a rushed morning when I still wanted something yummy. Now, I always save it for whenever I need a quick treat or want to use up leftover bread. Even my friends ask for it when they stop by.
Tasty Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup: brings a hint of sweet flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract: makes all the flavors pop
- Pinch of nutmeg: gives a cozy, warming vibe
- 1 large egg: holds it all together and adds richness
- 3 tablespoons milk: keeps everything moist
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon: that classic comforting taste
- 1 teaspoon butter: for a creamy, soft finish
- 1 cup cubed bread: slightly stale bread soaks up more flavor
- Your pick of toppings: bananas, raspberries, blueberries, powdered sugar, or peanut butter
Step-By-Step Directions
- Add the finishing touch:
- Once it's ready, pick your favorite toppings and pile them on. Go with fresh fruit, a sprinkle of sugar, or an extra swirl of maple syrup to make it even better.
- Quick cooking:
- Pop the mug in the microwave and cook on high for 60 to 90 seconds. Check after a minute. It's done when it feels set but is a bit moist in the middle.
- Bread soak:
- Drop the bread cubes into your eggy mix and gently flip them around so each piece soaks up the goodness. Let it rest for a minute so all the flavors sink in.
- Mix things up:
- Pour in the milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg with the melted butter. Add your egg. Whisk quickly with a fork until everything looks nice and smooth.
- Start with butter:
- Put the butter in a big microwaveable mug and heat it for 15 to 20 seconds until it's totally melted and covers the bottom.
My go-to move is using raisin bread or brioche for this. The natural sweetness plus the spices reminds me of the desserts I loved as a kid, except this is way faster.
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Storage & Make Ahead
If you've got extras, pop them in the fridge and keep for two days tops. To heat them up, just microwave for 20 or 30 seconds. It won't be exactly like fresh, but still makes a tasty snack.
Yummy Twists
Switch things up by making it your own. Try stirring in a teaspoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey spin, or toss in some caramelized apple pieces before cooking for a fall touch. Want it even more fun? Drop in a few chocolate chips so they melt as it cooks.
Serving Tips
This mug treat is great on its own, but if you want a bigger breakfast, eat it with plain Greek yogurt—it balances out the sweetness. Or, for a brunch party, make a bunch of mugs with different toppings and let everyone mix and match.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I avoid soggy bread?
Mix the bread pieces one at a time and let them soak up the mixture gently. Don’t leave them sitting in it too long before heating.
- → What’s the best kind of bread to use?
Slightly stale bread works great because it soaks the mixture better. White bread, brioche, or whole-grain bread are all good options.
- → Can I make it without a microwave?
Sure! You can bake it in a small dish using the oven or cook over a simmering water bath. It just takes a little extra time.
- → What toppings work best?
Try bananas, raspberries, blueberries, powdered sugar, or peanut butter. Feel free to experiment with whatever you like!
- → Can I swap out the maple syrup?
Absolutely. Honey, sugar, or any sweetener you prefer will do just fine.