French toast holds a special place in my heart, often reminding me of lazy weekend mornings spent savoring sweet bites while enjoying a hot cup of coffee. It’s a delightful breakfast that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of the best french toast that warms the soul and satisfies your hunger—all in under 30 minutes!
What makes this dish stand out is its perfectly golden-brown crust combined with a soft, custardy interior. This classic breakfast is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for special occasions, family brunches, or even a weekday treat.
Why you’ll love french toast
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Perfectly sweet and cozy flavor
- Great for using up stale bread
- Customizable with toppings and flavors
- Always a family favorite
What ingredients do I need for french toast?
- 4 slices of bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Butter for frying
- Maple syrup for serving
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Bread: Your favorite type works—white, whole grain, or brioche.
- Milk: Use any milk, including almond or oat for a dairy-free option.
- Eggs: For a vegan alternative, try a flax egg or commercial egg replacer.
How do I make french toast step-by-step?
To make french toast, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon in a bowl. Then, coat each slice of bread in the mixture and cook on a skillet until golden brown.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt some butter.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Place the soaked bread on the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve hot with maple syrup.
Pro Tip: Make sure the skillet is hot enough for a good sear without burning the bread. Look for that enticing golden color.
How should I serve it?
French toast is best served warm, drizzled generously with maple syrup. You can also add fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for a refreshing twist. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream elevates it even more!
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
You can prepare the egg mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you have leftover french toast, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet for optimal texture.
How do I fix common issues?
If your french toast turns out dry, ensure you’re properly soaking the bread without letting it sit too long. For bland flavors, increase the amount of vanilla or cinnamon. If soggy, your skillet may not be hot enough, or the bread might have absorbed too much of the egg mixture.
What variations can I try?
For a flavored twist, try adding orange or lemon zest to the mixture. You can also swap in other spices like nutmeg or cardamom. Want something sweeter? Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture.
FAQs
Can I use leftover bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Stale bread is perfect as it absorbs the egg mixture better and adds unique flavor.
What kind of bread is best for french toast?
Thick slices of brioche, challah, or even sourdough work wonderfully due to their sturdy texture.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute your favorite gluten-free bread and ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Is french toast a healthy option?
While it can be indulgent, you can use whole-grain bread and top it with fruit to make it healthier. Enjoy in moderation!
French Toast
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt some butter.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Place the soaked bread on the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides.
- Serve hot with maple syrup.