There’s something magical about French toast, crispy edges, soft custard like centers, and a hint of cinnamon that fills the kitchen with warmth. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a special brunch, this French toast recipe is a classic that never disappoints. With just a few simple ingredients, you can turn ordinary bread into a golden, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious breakfast. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings or indulgent weekend treats!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This French Toast Recipe
- Quick and Easy, this recipe takes less than 15 minutes from start to finish.
- Crispy Outside, Soft Inside, the perfect balance of textures in every bite.
- Customizable, add toppings like fresh fruit, syrup, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Great for Leftover Bread, a perfect way to use up slightly stale bread for the best results.
- Kid Friendly and Crowd Pleasing, loved by both kids and adults, making it ideal for family breakfasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients
To make the best French toast recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Bread, thick cut bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast works best.
- Eggs, the base of the custard, helping bind everything together.
- Milk or Cream, adds richness and creaminess to the mixture. Whole milk or half and half is ideal.
- Vanilla Extract, enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet touch.
- Cinnamon, a must have for that classic cozy taste.
- Sugar, just a touch to lightly sweeten the custard.
- Butter, for frying, giving the toast that golden brown crispiness.
Note: You can find the printable recipe with exact measurements below.
Variations and Substitutions
Dairy Free Options
No dairy? No problem! Swap regular milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a creamy, plant based alternative. Instead of butter, use coconut oil or vegan butter for frying. You’ll still get that golden, crispy texture without compromising flavor!
Sweetener Alternatives
If you prefer a natural touch, replace white sugar with maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar. Want a low carb option? Stevia or monk fruit sweetener work well without affecting the taste. Just be mindful of liquid alternatives, as they might slightly thin the custard mixture.
Best Breads for French Toast
For rich, fluffy French toast, go for brioche, challah, or Texas toast. These absorb the custard without getting soggy. If you like a slightly chewy texture, sourdough is a great choice. Stale bread works best, it soaks up the mixture while holding its shape!
How to Make French Toast
Step by Step Guide to Perfect French Toast
1. Make the Custard Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated for a silky texture. If you like extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest. The key is a balanced custard, not too thick, not too runny!
2. Choose and Prepare the Bread
Thick cut bread works best, ideally slightly stale for better absorption. If using fresh bread, leave slices out for an hour or lightly toast them. Cut into half to 1 inch slices to prevent sogginess. Want extra indulgence? Use brioche or challah, they create the richest, most buttery French toast!
3. Dip the Bread (Without Over Soaking)
Gently dip each slice into the custard mixture, letting it soak for 10 to 15 seconds per side. Don’t leave it in too long, or it’ll turn mushy! The goal is to fully coat the bread while keeping the center soft but not soggy. Shake off excess custard before cooking.
4. Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat a nonstick pan or griddle over medium heat and melt butter until sizzling. Place the soaked bread on the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, cook in batches to ensure even browning.
5. Serve with Your Favorite Toppings
Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate and serve immediately. Classic toppings include maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries, but get creative! Try whipped cream, nut butters, or caramelized bananas for a fun twist. Enjoy while warm!
Alternative Cooking Methods
Baked French Toast Method
For an easy hands on method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange soaked bread slices on a parchment lined baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes per side, flipping halfway through. This method ensures even cooking without needing a stovetop, making it perfect for busy mornings or large batches.
Air Fryer French Toast
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the basket, then place the soaked bread inside in a single layer. Air fry for 5 to 6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden. The air fryer gives an extra light, crispy texture without needing much butter or oil!
French Toast Casserole for a Crowd
Want to serve a group? Cut bread into cubes and layer in a buttered baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over, ensuring every piece is coated. Let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes or overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and set.
Helpful Tips and Tricks
Secrets to the Best French Toast
Use slightly stale bread, fresh bread absorbs too much custard and gets soggy.
Control the soak time, 10 to 15 seconds per side is perfect. Too short, dry results. Too long, soggy mess.
Cook on medium heat for a crispy, golden crust and soft interior. High heat burns it, low heat makes it dry.
Add a touch of nutmeg, orange zest, or a splash of liqueur for an extra flavor boost!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Skipping the whisking step, ensure eggs are fully blended into the custard for a smooth texture.
Soaking too long, if the bread absorbs too much liquid, it won’t cook properly.
Using too much heat, burnt outsides and raw centers are a no go. Keep it on medium heat.
Skipping the butter, a little butter in the pan adds flavor and helps get that golden, crispy finish!
How to Serve
Classic and Creative Topping Ideas
The beauty of French toast is how easily you can customize it! Stick to the classics with powdered sugar, fresh berries, and maple syrup, or get creative. Try a dollop of Greek yogurt, peanut butter drizzle, or caramelized bananas for extra indulgence. For a unique pairing, serve it alongside Blueberry Bread, the fruity flavors complement the rich, buttery toast beautifully!
Best Syrups and Sauces to Pair With It
Maple syrup is a classic, but why stop there? Try honey, chocolate sauce, or fruit compote for a fun twist. Love rich flavors? A drizzle of salted caramel or Nutella takes it to another level. If you prefer something fresh, go for lemon curd or homemade berry jam, both add a tangy contrast to the sweet toast!
French Toast Nutrition Facts
Calories and Key Nutrients
French toast is a satisfying mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Here’s a general breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal | Varies based on bread and toppings |
| Protein | 9g | Mostly from eggs and milk |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | Comes from bread and sugar |
| Fat | 10g | Butter and egg yolks add richness |
| Fiber | 2g | Can increase with whole wheat bread |
| Sugar | 6g | Adjust based on sweeteners used |
Healthier French Toast Swaps
Want to make French toast a little lighter? Use whole wheat or sourdough bread for more fiber. Swap whole milk for almond or oat milk, and use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of sugar. For cooking, opt for coconut oil instead of butter, it still gives a crispy texture with a healthier twist!
How to Store & Reheat for Later
Best Ways to Store Leftovers
Got leftover French toast? No problem! Let it cool completely before storing. Place slices in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, perfect for quick breakfasts on busy mornings!
How to Reheat Without Drying It Out
To keep French toast crispy, reheat it in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. For an even faster method, use an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, it can make the toast soggy. If using a microwave, place a damp paper towel over it and heat in short 20 second bursts to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bread for French toast?
The best bread for French toast is thick cut and slightly stale. Brioche, challah, and Texas toast are top choices because they soak up custard without falling apart. If you prefer a chewier texture, sourdough works great too. Avoid thin, soft bread, it gets too soggy!
Can I make French toast without eggs?
Yes! Replace eggs with a mixture of mashed banana, ground flaxseed with water (flax egg), or cornstarch mixed with plant based milk. These alternatives help bind the custard and keep the texture rich. The result won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be delicious!
How do I prevent my French toast from being too soggy?
Use day old bread, fresh bread absorbs too much custard and turns mushy. Dip each slice for only 10 to 15 seconds per side to avoid over soaking. Cooking on medium heat ensures the outside crisps up while the inside stays soft, without being too wet.
Can I make French toast ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the custard the night before and store it in the fridge. You can also pre soak the bread and arrange it in a baking dish for an easy overnight French toast bake. If making regular slices ahead, store them in the fridge and reheat in a toaster or oven.
Are there dairy free alternatives for French toast?
Absolutely! Swap regular milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk. Instead of butter, use coconut oil or vegan butter for frying. These swaps keep the French toast rich and flavorful while being completely dairy free!
Can I freeze French toast for later?
Yes! Let it cool, then freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer safe bag. They’ll last up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster, oven, or air fryer for a quick and crispy breakfast.
More Easy Breakfast Recipes
Looking for more delicious breakfast ideas? Try these favorites:
- Easy Mini Pancakes Recipe, a perfect breakfast companion.
- Scrambled Eggs with Cottage Cheese, a protein packed way to start your day.
- Homemade Granola Recipe, crunchy, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep.
- Blueberry Bread Recipe, a sweet and moist pairing for your French toast.
Enjoy your homemade French toast! If you try this recipe, let us know in the comments how it turned out and share your favorite toppings!
Classic French Toast Recipe
Equipment
- Nonstick Pan
- Mixing Bowl
- Plate
Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 2 eggs eggs large eggs
- 1 cup milk whole milk preferred
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp sugar
French Toast Slices
- 4 slices thick cut bread preferably brioche or challah
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until smooth and fully combined.
- Arrange thick cut bread slices on a plate. If the bread is fresh, let it sit for an hour or lightly toast it for better absorption.
- Gently dip each bread slice into the custard mixture for 10 to 15 seconds per side. Shake off any excess mixture.
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and melt butter. Cook each dipped bread slice for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate and serve immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries.