Why You’ll Love This Recipe
French toast is quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients you likely already have. It’s versatile and can be made sweet or savory depending on your preference. The texture is perfectly balanced—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It’s also a great way to use up slightly stale bread and can be customized with a variety of toppings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 slices bread (such as brioche or challah)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1 tablespoon butter for cooking
Directions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
- Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the skillet and serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2 servings.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
You can customize French toast in many ways. Use thick-cut bread like brioche for a richer version. Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrus twist. For a savory version, skip the sugar and cinnamon and add herbs or cheese. You can also make stuffed French toast by adding cream cheese or fruit between slices before cooking.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to maintain crispness. You can also freeze slices for up to 1 month and reheat directly from frozen.
FAQs
What bread works best for French toast?
Brioche, challah, or thick-cut white bread work best.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter alternative.
Why is my French toast soggy?
Too much soaking or low heat can cause sogginess.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and reheat it later.
How do I keep it warm for serving?
Place cooked slices in a warm oven until ready to serve.
Can I use stale bread?
Yes, slightly stale bread works even better.
What toppings go well with French toast?
Maple syrup, fresh fruit, powdered sugar, and whipped cream are popular choices.
Can I make it without eggs?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes like mashed banana or a plant-based mixture.
How do I make it crispy?
Cook on medium heat with enough butter for a golden crust.
Can I add protein?
Yes, serve with eggs, yogurt, or nut butter on the side.
Conclusion
French toast is a timeless breakfast favorite that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. With its golden exterior and soft interior, it’s a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you keep it simple or dress it up with toppings, it’s always a satisfying choice.
PrintFrench Toast
A classic French toast recipe with golden, crispy edges and a soft, custardy center, perfect for a comforting breakfast.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Fry
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread (such as brioche or challah)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter for cooking
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides.
- Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove from skillet and serve warm with desired toppings.
Notes
- Use slightly stale bread for better texture.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
- Try brioche or challah for a richer flavor.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for best results.
- Freeze for up to 1 month and reheat from frozen.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 170 mg
