Simple French Toast Recipe: Few dishes feel as comforting and universally loved as French Toast. Whether it’s a quick weekday breakfast or a weekend brunch treat, this dish is an irresistible combination of simplicity and decadence. French Toast, also known as “pain perdu” (meaning “lost bread”) in French, is a clever way to turn stale bread into a golden, custardy masterpiece. It’s a recipe that’s loved worldwide for its ease, versatility, and the joy it brings to the table.
Ready to master this classic dish? Follow along for the ultimate guide to making French Toast like a pro!
Ingredients Needed
Basic Ingredients
To make classic French Toast, you’ll need a few pantry staples:
- Bread: Preferably thick-cut bread like brioche, challah, or sourdough.
- Eggs: Acts as the base of the custard.
- Milk: Adds creaminess to the batter (whole milk works best, but alternatives are fine).
- Butter: For cooking the toast to golden perfection.
- Sugar: Sweetens the batter slightly.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the flavor.
Optional Ingredients
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Nutmeg: A pinch adds depth to the batter.
- Maple Syrup: For drizzling on top.
- Fresh Fruits or Powdered Sugar: Perfect for garnishing and presentation.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing Bowl: For whisking the egg mixture.
- Whisk or Fork: To blend the ingredients.
- Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle: Ensures even cooking.
- Spatula: For flipping the toast.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
Preparing for the Recipe
Choosing the Right Bread
The choice of bread can make or break your French Toast. Opt for thick slices of slightly stale bread—they soak up the custard better than fresh bread, which can become too soggy. Brioche, challah, or sourdough are ideal options due to their firm texture and rich flavor.
If your bread is fresh, leave it out overnight or toast it lightly to dry it out.
Gathering and Measuring Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have all your ingredients measured and ready. This step makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Egg Mixture
Start by cracking 2-3 large eggs into a mixing bowl. Add ½ cup of milk, 1-2 tablespoons of sugar, a pinch of cinnamon, and a splash of vanilla extract if desired. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and frothy.
Step 2: Dipping the Bread
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Be quick—letting the bread sit too long in the mixture can result in soggy French Toast. Aim for a light soak that allows the bread to absorb the custard without falling apart.
Step 3: Cooking the French Toast
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a knob of butter. Once the butter melts and starts bubbling, place the coated bread slices onto the skillet. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning.
Step 4: Serving and Garnishing
Serve the French Toast hot off the skillet. Top it with a drizzle of maple syrup, fresh fruits, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even whipped cream for a fancy touch.
Tips for Perfect French Toast Every Time
- Use slightly stale bread for the best texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
- Keep cooked French Toast warm in the oven (at 200°F) until ready to serve.
Variations of French Toast
Savory French Toast
Skip the sugar and cinnamon, and add a pinch of salt, pepper, and herbs to the custard for a savory twist. Pair it with avocado, smoked salmon, or cheese.
Stuffed French Toast
Take things up a notch by sandwiching cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves between two slices of bread before dipping them in the custard.
Vegan French Toast
Substitute eggs with mashed bananas or ground flaxseed mixed with water. Use non-dairy milk for a plant-based version.
Storing and Reheating French Toast
To store leftovers, let the French Toast cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped in parchment paper. Reheat in the oven or toaster for the best results.
Nutritional Information
Each slice of French Toast (without toppings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 200-250
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
For a lighter version, use whole-grain bread, reduce sugar, or substitute ingredients with low-fat options.
FAQs about Simple French Toast Recipe
What are the basic ingredients needed for a simple French toast recipe?
To make simple French toast, you’ll need a few basic ingredients: bread, eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Optionally, you can add sugar for sweetness.
How do I choose the right bread for French toast?
The best breads for French toast are thick and sturdy to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart. Brioche, challah, and French bread are excellent choices. For best results, use bread that is 1-2 days old as it will absorb the mixture better.
Can I make French toast without milk?
Yes, you can make French toast without milk by using alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. These options will add a unique flavor and are great for those with dietary restrictions.
Is it necessary to use cinnamon and vanilla in French toast?
While not necessary, cinnamon and vanilla add a lovely warmth and flavor to French toast. You can experiment with other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for different flavors.
How do I prevent my French toast from being soggy?
To prevent soggy French toast, make sure your bread slices aren’t too thin and avoid soaking them for too long in the egg mixture. Cook on a medium heat to ensure the egg sets before the bread gets too brown.
Can French toast be made in advance?
French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare it in advance by soaking the bread and storing it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, cook it as usual. Alternatively, you can fully cook it and reheat in the oven or toaster for a quick breakfast.
What toppings can I use for French toast?
Top your French toast with anything you like! Popular toppings include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even yogurt. Nutella or peanut butter can add a delicious twist.
Conclusion
French Toast is the perfect way to transform humble ingredients into a satisfying meal. Its versatility, ease, and sheer deliciousness make it a breakfast favorite worldwide. Now that you have this simple step-by-step guide, why not give it a try? You might just discover your new go-to breakfast recipe!
