French toast is the ultimate breakfast indulgence, combining golden, crispy edges with a soft, custardy center. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this classic dish that feels both comforting and luxurious. The rich, eggy batter soaks into thick slices of bread, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s impossible to resist.
Topped with a drizzle of warm maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar, each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathered at the table in no time. It’s a simple yet elevated treat that turns any morning into something special.
What You’ll Need for French Toast?
- 4 large eggs (room temperature for easier mixing)
- ⅔ cup milk (whole milk for richness, or substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla for the best flavor)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of sea salt (enhances the sweetness)
- Butter or oil, for the pan (butter adds flavor, but oil works for a lighter option)
- 8 thick slices bread (brioche is ideal, but challah or sourdough work too)
- Maple syrup and/or powdered sugar, for serving (optional, but highly recommended!)
How to Make Perfect French Toast
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
- Heat the skillet: Place a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly brush with butter or oil.
- Coat the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, turning to coat both sides evenly. Let excess drip off.
- Cook the toast: Place the coated bread into the skillet and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Reduce the heat to low if needed to prevent burning.
- Repeat: Work in batches if necessary, brushing the skillet with more butter between batches.
- Serve: Plate the French toast and top with maple syrup and/or a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy immediately!
Creative Toppings and Sauces to Elevate Your French Toast
While maple syrup and powdered sugar are classic, try drizzling your French toast with honey, chocolate sauce, or caramel for a sweet twist. For a fruity touch, add fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a dollop of whipped cream. Feeling adventurous? Sprinkle with chopped nuts or a pinch of sea salt for a gourmet finish.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
French toast is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with savory or sweet sides. Serve it with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a side of sausage for a hearty breakfast. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh fruit salad or a yogurt parfait. Don’t forget a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of orange juice to complete the meal!
Quick Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop it in the toaster or warm it in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side. For a quick fix, microwave it for 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat and dry it out.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Mornings
Prep the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge for a quicker start. Use pre-sliced bread or toast it slightly before dipping to speed up the cooking process. If you’re feeding a crowd, keep cooked French toast warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch.
Fun Variations to Mix It Up
Swap out the brioche for challah, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread to suit your preferences. Add a splash of orange juice or a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for a unique flavor twist. For a decadent treat, stuff the bread with cream cheese or Nutella before dipping and cooking.
French Toast
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- ⅔ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- Sea salt
- Butter or oil, for the pan
- 8 thick slices bread, I like this thick-sliced brioche
- Maple syrup and/or powdered sugar, for serving
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and brush with butter.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, turning to coat both sides. Place into the skillet and cook for 2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Reduce the heat to low as needed to cook thoroughly without burning. Work in batches if necessary, brushing the skillet with more butter between batches.
- Serve with maple syrup and/or a dusting of powdered sugar.