Simple Classic French Toast

January 25, 2025

Who’s ready to turn breakfast into a masterpiece? This simple, classic French toast recipe is your golden ticket to perfectly fluffy, custardy slices of bliss. Whether you're a kitchen pro or new to the spatula, this is one recipe that's sure to impress. Let’s whip it up together!

4.7 out of 5 (3 ratings)

Ah, French toast. Just the name alone feels like a warm hug wrapped in buttery, golden glory. Picture this: it’s a lazy weekend morning, the sun is streaming into your kitchen, and the comforting smell of cinnamon and vanilla wafts through the air. Do you feel that? That’s the magic of French toast! Today, we’re diving into a simple yet classic recipe that turns humble bread into a breakfast masterpiece. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or that special someone (hello, breakfast in bed!), this dish is here to win hearts, one slice at a time.

What makes this French toast recipe so special is the perfectly balanced custard base. We’re talking about eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon coming together in glorious harmony. The secret is really in the soak! Let your bread have a little spa day and soak up all that custard-y goodness before hitting the griddle. I personally love using slightly stale brioche or challah because their texture holds up beautifully, but honestly, any hearty bread will shine if given the royal treatment. Oh, and let’s not forget the subtly crispy edges paired with that soft, fluffy center. It’s like biting into golden sunshine!

Now, let’s talk tips to level up your French toast game. First, don’t rush it—medium-low heat is your best friend here. You want your bread to cook through without scorching. If you’re feeding a crowd, keep your finished slices warm in the oven on low heat while you work your magic on the rest. Feeling playful? Sprinkle the batter with a hint of nutmeg or zest a bit of orange into the custard for a citrusy twist. And don’t underestimate the power of toppings—maple syrup and powdered sugar are classics, but fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of honey can take things over the top.

So, are you ready to create a breakfast that feels like a hug in food form? Grab your whisk, your favorite bread, and let’s make some magic! French toast is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to experiment with flavors or even make it your own by using dairy-free milk or a gluten-free loaf. Pair it with a cup of steaming coffee or a frothy hot chocolate for ultimate cozy vibes. Whether served as a special treat or an everyday pick-me-up, this simple classic French toast is guaranteed to leave you smiling—and maybe even going back for seconds!

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Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

French

Ingredients

•4 slices of bread
•2 large eggs
•1/2 cup milk
•1 teaspoon vanilla extract
•1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
•1 tablespoon butter
•Maple syrup, for serving
•Powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
2
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the butter to melt.
3
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated.
4
Place the coated bread slices onto the hot skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5
Repeat with remaining slices of bread, adding additional butter to the pan if necessary.
6
Serve immediately with maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, if desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories

250 calories

Protein

Carbs

30g

Fat

10g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use a variety of breads such as brioche, challah, sourdough, or whole wheat. Denser breads like brioche or challah tend to absorb the custard mixture better and create a richer texture. Make sure the bread isn’t too fresh, as slightly stale bread works best for soaking up the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

Q: Can I substitute milk with a non-dairy alternative?

A: Absolutely, you can use non-dairy milk such as almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just ensure the non-dairy milk you choose is unsweetened to avoid altering the flavor balance of the dish.

Q: Why is my French toast soggy in the middle?

A: Soggy French toast is often caused by soaking the bread too long in the custard mixture or cooking it at too high a heat. Make sure to quickly dip the bread on both sides without leaving it in the mixture for more than a few seconds. Cook the toast on medium heat to ensure it cooks evenly without burning the outside while the inside remains undercooked.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While French toast is best served fresh, you can make it ahead of time. Cook the French toast as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place it in a toaster oven or skillet to crisp it up, or microwave it for a softer texture.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent the slices from sticking together, you can place parchment paper between each slice. For longer storage, freeze the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Q: Can I add extra flavors or toppings to this recipe?

A: Yes, you can customize this recipe with additional flavors and toppings. Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange juice to the custard mixture for extra depth. Top the French toast with fresh fruit, whipped cream, nuts, or chocolate chips for a more indulgent version. You can also serve it with flavored syrups or jams.

Q: How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?

A: Ensure the skillet or griddle is properly preheated over medium heat before adding the butter. Once the butter is melted and evenly spread, place the coated bread slices into the pan. If sticking persists, consider using a non-stick skillet or adding a bit more butter between batches.

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