Introduction
French toast is a breakfast classic that’s easy to make, yet incredibly delicious. Whether you’re treating yourself to a cozy morning meal or hosting a brunch, the perfect French toast is sure to impress. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to make the best classic French toast using simple ingredients like eggs, cinnamon, and your choice of bread. Plus, we’ll share some tips and tricks to ensure it’s golden, fluffy, and full of flavor every time!
For a tasty baked good, try my Traditional Swedish Semlor Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect French Toast
To make the perfect classic French toast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 large eggs: These will form the base of your egg mixture.
- 1 cup of milk: Adds richness and creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon: This spice adds a touch of sweetness and warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 8 slices of bread (preferably thick-cut like brioche or challah for extra fluffiness and flavor).
- 2 tablespoons of butter: For cooking the French toast and adding a golden, crispy texture.
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh fruit: For serving (optional, but highly recommended!).
How to Make Classic French Toast Step-by-Step
Making the perfect French toast is simple! Just follow these easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This will create the rich custard base that makes French toast so delicious.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Place your slices of bread into the egg mixture. Let each slice soak for about 20-30 seconds on each side, making sure the bread is fully coated with the egg mixture. If you’re using brioche or challah bread, these will soak up the mixture nicely, becoming fluffy and golden when cooked.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the French toast is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet. Serve with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas, or berries. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a spread of nut butter for extra indulgence.
Want a fun, colorful dessert? Check out my Simple Durian Cake Recipe
Best Bread Choices for French Toast
The bread you choose plays a huge role in how your French toast turns out. Here are some of the best options:
Brioche Bread
Brioche is a rich, buttery bread that makes for incredibly soft and fluffy French toast. Its slight sweetness complements the cinnamon and vanilla in the egg mixture, making it a favorite choice for this dish.
Challah Bread
Challah is another excellent choice. This slightly sweet, braided bread has a soft, airy texture, which makes it perfect for soaking up the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
Sourdough or Whole Wheat
If you’re looking for something a little different, sourdough or whole wheat bread can add a unique flavor twist to your French toast. While not as traditional as brioche or challah, they’re still great options and offer a slightly tangy or nutty flavor profile.
Stale Bread vs. Fresh Bread
For the best texture, stale bread works best. Slightly dried-out bread soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart, creating the ideal crisp crust while staying soft inside.
Essential French Toast Toppings
French toast is delicious on its own, but the toppings can elevate it to another level. Here are some essential options:
Maple Syrup
Nothing beats the sweetness and depth of flavor that maple syrup brings to French toast. Pour it generously over the warm toast for the perfect breakfast treat.
Powdered Sugar
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet, elegant touch. It enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
Fresh Fruit
Add a burst of freshness with strawberries, blueberries, bananas, or even a mix of fruits. The natural sweetness of the fruit contrasts beautifully with the warm, buttery toast.
Whipped Cream or Nut Butter
For a richer topping, try a dollop of whipped cream or spread some nut butter like peanut butter or almond butter. These add creamy texture and extra flavor.
Looking for a creamy treat? Try my Caramel Crème Brûlée Recipe
Tips and Tricks for Perfect French Toast Every Time
Here are some expert tips to ensure your French toast turns out perfect every time:
Avoiding Soggy French Toast
To prevent sogginess, don’t over-soak the bread. Aim for about 20-30 seconds per side. This will allow the bread to absorb enough of the custard mixture without becoming too mushy.
Cook at the Right Temperature
Medium heat is key. If the pan is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. If it’s too low, the French toast will turn out soft and undercooked. A moderate temperature will help achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the egg mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, just dip the bread and cook as usual. You can also make French toast in advance and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) to keep it crispy.
How to Keep French Toast Warm
If you’re making multiple servings, keep your French toast warm in the oven on a baking sheet at a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C) while you cook the rest.
For an easy, indulgent dessert, try my Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe
Conclusion
Classic French toast is a simple, delicious breakfast that can be easily customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you use brioche, challah, or whole wheat bread, this recipe will give you golden, fluffy French toast every time. Serve it with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh fruit for the perfect start to your day. Follow the tips and tricks shared here, and you’ll be making perfect French toast like a pro!