Simple French Toast Recipe

Hey food adventurers, today we’re diving into a breakfast classic that turns humble ingredients into pure morning magic—French toast! Picture this: slices of bread, lovingly soaked in a rich, spiced custard, then crisped to perfection, ready to be drenched in maple syrup or dusted with powdered sugar. Let’s get this brunch party started! 🍞🥞✨

I enjoy preparing a straightforward version of French Toast, which magically changes four slices of thick, stale bread into a warm, captivating breakfast. My recipe relies on a base of two large eggs, half a cup of milk, and just a hint of vanilla and cinnamon.

These are the comforting flavor profiles of the dish. While baked versions exist, and some people even treat it like a casserole, this is French Toast in the traditional sense.

I serve it in a way that’s traditional for me—with a touch of maple syrup and a sprinkle of fresh berries.

Simple French Toast Recipe Ingredients

• Bread: Provides carbohydrates and fiber, use whole-grain for extra nutrients.
• Eggs: Rich in protein and healthy fats, essential for coating and flavor.
• Milk: Adds creaminess and calcium, enhancing texture and taste.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, sweet aroma, elevating flavor complexity.
• Ground cinnamon: Offers antioxidants and warmth, pairs perfectly with vanilla.

Simple French Toast Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 4 slices of bread (preferably day-old or thick-cut)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, for cooking
• Maple syrup or powdered sugar, for serving
• Fresh fruit or berries, optional for garnish

How to Make this Simple French Toast Recipe

1. In a shallow dish, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk well.

2. Warm a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the cooking surface.

3. Immerse one slice of the bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to steep for a couple of seconds on each side so that it drinks in the liquid.

4. Move the soaked bread to the skillet. Do this with more slices of bread as long as there is space in the skillet.

5. Prepare the bread slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they attain a golden-brown color and are fully cooked.

6. Should it be required, put in the last tablespoon of butter and continue to cook the remaining slices of bread in the skillet.

7. Move the prepared French toast to a dish and hold in a warm place, covered with foil or in a low oven.

8. Present the French toast steaming, with a trickle of maple syrup or a light shower of powdered sugar.

9. If you wish, for enhanced presentation and flavor, add fresh fruit or berries as a garnish.

10. Savor the French toast as a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.

Simple French Toast Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Shallow dish
2. Whisk
3. Non-stick skillet or griddle
4. Tablespoon
5. Spatula
6. Plate
7. Aluminum foil or oven (optional for keeping toast warm)
8. Knife (optional for cutting fruit)
9. Serving dish or platter

FAQ

• Q: Can I use any type of bread for French toast?A: Yes, but thick-cut or day-old bread works best because it absorbs the egg mixture without getting too mushy.
• Q: Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy option?Sure, feel free to use almond milk, soy milk, or any kind of non-dairy milk you prefer.
• Q: How do I prevent French toast from becoming soggy?A: Use bread that is a day old and don’t let it soak too long in the egg mixture.
• Q: What if I don’t have vanilla extract?A: A teaspoon of maple syrup can be a substitute, or you can not use it and the flavor will just be somewhat different.
• Q: Is the cinnamon necessary?A: No, you don’t have to use cinnamon in this recipe, but it adds a warm spice that really brings together the flavors.
• Q: Can I prepare the egg mixture in advance?Yes, you are able to mix the materials several hours in advance and chill them until usage.
• Q: Should I use salted or unsalted butter for cooking?A: Either can be used, but unsalted butter gives you better control over the overall saltiness of the dish.

Simple French Toast Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can substitute any type of bread for the bread called for in the recipe, depending on your preference. Options include brioche, challah, and whole grain bread.
Try using almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk instead of cow’s milk for a dairy-free version.
You can use almond extract or a few drops of vanilla essence to replace vanilla extract.
In the absence of ground cinnamon, you can rely on nutmeg or allspice to lend a warm, spicy flavor to your dish.
If you are avoiding butter, opt for either coconut oil or margarine when doing your cooking.

Pro Tips

1. Use Stale Bread Opt for day-old or slightly stale bread, as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy, leading to a perfect texture.

2. Infuse Flavor Add a dash of nutmeg or a few drops of almond extract to the egg mixture for a subtle, yet elevated flavor profile.

3. Test the Skillet Heat Before cooking, sprinkle a tiny bit of water on the skillet. If it sizzles, the pan is ready. Proper heat ensures the French toast crisps up nicely on the outside while staying soft inside.

4. Cook in Batches Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.

5. Finish in the Oven After pan-frying, place the French toast on a baking sheet in a 200°F (about 93°C) oven for a few minutes. This step keeps it warm and adds a slight crispness.