French toast is a classic breakfast favorite that has been enjoyed by many for generations. This delicious dish, also known as “pain perdu” in French, which translates to “lost bread,” is believed to have originated as a way to use up stale bread. Over the years, it has evolved into a beloved morning treat that combines the richness of eggs, milk, and a touch of sweetness. The result is a perfectly golden, crispy exterior with a soft and custardy interior, making it a perfect canvas for a variety of toppings and accompaniments.
The beauty of French toast lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday breakfast or an indulgent weekend brunch, French toast can be adapted to suit your needs. From traditional recipes to creative variations, there are endless ways to enjoy this delightful dish. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe for the best French toast, along with several variations and substitutions to help you customize it to your liking.
The Best French Toast Recipe
Ingredients
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Pinch of salt
8 slices of thick-cut bread (brioche, challah, or French bread)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries, for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt until well combined.
Dip the Bread:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. While the butter is melting, dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. Ensure the bread is well-coated but not too soggy.
Cook the French Toast:
Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet or griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Add more butter to the skillet as needed for additional batches.
Serve:
Serve the French toast warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a handful of fresh berries. Enjoy!
Variations
Stuffed French Toast:
Create a sandwich with two slices of bread filled with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves. Dip the sandwich in the egg mixture and cook as directed.
Savory French Toast:
Omit the sugar and vanilla from the batter and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Serve with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Banana Foster French Toast:
Top the cooked French toast with caramelized bananas and a drizzle of rum-flavored caramel sauce for a decadent treat.
Coconut French Toast:
Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the egg mixture and garnish the cooked French toast with toasted coconut flakes.
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Option:
Replace the milk or cream with almond milk, coconut milk, or any other plant-based milk. Use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil for cooking.
Gluten-Free French Toast:
Use gluten-free bread in place of regular bread to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Lower-Sugar Version:
Reduce the amount of sugar in the egg mixture or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Egg-Free French Toast:
Make a vegan version by using a mixture of 1 cup plant-based milk, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for color), and 1 teaspoon baking powder as a substitute for eggs.
Conclusion
French toast is a timeless breakfast dish that offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, traditional or with a twist, this versatile recipe can be adapted to suit your preferences and dietary needs. The best French toast is all about achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures, and with the right ingredients and techniques, you can create a breakfast masterpiece that everyone will love.
Enjoy experimenting with different variations and substitutions to make this classic dish your own. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, French toast is sure to delight and satisfy. Savor the golden, crispy exterior and the soft, custardy interior, and don’t forget to top it off with your favorite accompaniments for the ultimate breakfast experience.
