French toast, or pain perdu as the French call it, literally means “lost bread.” Why? Because it was originally created as a smart way to use up stale bread and turn it into something delicious.
With its crispy golden outside and soft, custardy center, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite breakfast and brunch treat around the world.
You can top it with fresh fruit, drizzle it with maple syrup, or dust it with powdered sugar—whatever you love! French toast is versatile, comforting, and incredibly simple to make.
Ready to give it a try? Follow this easy recipe and enjoy a dish that’s sure to bring a little extra joy to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of day-old bread (brioche, challah, or sandwich bread works best)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (whole milk or plant-based milk like almond or oat)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a warm flavor)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruits like berries or bananas
- Whipped cream
Step-by-Step: How to Make French Toast
Here’s how to create your own batch of golden, fluffy French toast:
- Prepare the Batter:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined for a smooth batter. - Soak the Bread:
Take a slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Let it soak for about 10 seconds on each side, ensuring it absorbs the batter but doesn’t become too soggy. Slightly stale bread works best since it holds its shape without falling apart. - Heat the Pan:
Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt, coating the surface evenly. A properly preheated pan ensures an even, golden crust on your toast. - Cook the French Toast:
Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. If the bread browns too quickly, lower the heat to avoid burning.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate. Top with your favorite add-ons—maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream—and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfect French Toast Every Time
French toast may be simple, but a few tricks can make it extraordinary:
- Avoid Soggy Bread: If your bread is too fresh, lightly toast it in the oven or let it sit out for a few hours before soaking. This helps it absorb just the right amount of custard without falling apart.
- Thickness Matters: Bread slices about ¾ to 1 inch thick work best. Thin slices might turn mushy, while overly thick slices may not cook through.
- Control the Heat: Medium heat is your friend. It allows the toast to develop a golden crust while cooking evenly inside.
- Make It Your Own: Try adding grated orange zest or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for extra flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with savory toppings like cheese or avocado for a unique twist.
- Double Up for Later: French toast freezes beautifully! Make extra, cool the slices completely, and store them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the toaster or oven to reheat.
Why French Toast Is Perfect for Every Occasion
French toast isn’t just a breakfast staple—it’s a dish that can shine in any setting:
- For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup and a side of fresh fruit for an easy, classic morning treat.
- For Holidays: Add a festive touch with spiced toppings like apple compote, cranberry sauce, or whipped cream sprinkled with cinnamon. For a holiday twist, replace the milk with eggnog for a rich, seasonal flavor.
- As a Savory Dish: Skip the sugar and cinnamon, and instead mix herbs like parsley or chives into the batter. Pair it with smoked salmon, sautéed mushrooms, or melted cheese for a savory spin that works as a brunch or dinner option.
- For Dessert: Transform French toast into a decadent dessert with caramelized bananas, a drizzle of chocolate, or even a scoop of ice cream on top.
No matter how you serve it, French toast is versatile, comforting, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Last Thoughts
French toast is a timeless dish that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. With just a few ingredients and some basic steps, you can turn ordinary bread into something extraordinary.
Whether you’re enjoying it on a lazy Sunday morning, serving it to guests at brunch, or experimenting with fun toppings, French toast always delivers.
So, next time you have some leftover bread, don’t let it go to waste—make French toast instead! Follow this recipe, try out some tips, and enjoy a dish that’s golden, fluffy, and full of flavor.
Bon appétit! 🍞✨
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
