Creating classic French toast is like bringing a piece of breakfast heaven to our table. You know those lazy Sunday mornings when everyone's still in pajamas, and we're craving something a little extra special? That's when this French toast recipe is a staple in our family.
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And trust me, with Alex and Sarah, nothing starts the day better than a stack of golden, fluffy, and perfectly cooked toast slices.
👉 Don't forget to check out my recipe for Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies if you're in the mood for something sweet!
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes!
- Family Favorite: Guaranteed to please kids and grown-ups alike.
- Versatile: Perfect base for your favorite toppings.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses items you probably already have in your pantry.
- Comforting & Classic: A tried-and-true breakfast tradition.
Ingredients
- 6 slices of one-day-old bread (brioche, milk, or hokkaido)
- 4 eggs
- 240 ml full-fat milk
- 120 ml whipping cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon clarified butter
Step-by-step instructions
- Prepare the slices: Cut the bread into 2-3 cm (about 1 inch) thick slices.
- Mix the batter: In a deep baking dish, combine the eggs, milk, whipping cream, salt, vanilla, and sugar. Beat with a whisk until smooth.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice into the mixture. Make sure each slice absorbs enough liquid and prick with a fork if needed.
- Heat the pan: Place a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat and melt the butter and clarified butter.
- Cook the toast: Transfer the French toast to the pan, cooking two slices at a time for about 4 minutes per side.
- Drain & serve: Use a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Divide between plates and serve warm, optionally dusted with icing sugar or drizzled with maple syrup.
Recipe tips & variations
- Choose the right bread: Day-old bread works best because it holds up without getting too soggy.
- Customize toppings: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of fresh berries for a fruity twist.
- Avoid overcrowding: For a crispy crust, avoid placing too many pieces in the pan at once.
- Want to make it a little healthier? Substitute reduced-fat milk for full-fat.
Storage & reheating
- Storing leftovers: Place cooled French toast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a toaster oven to keep the exterior crisp without drying out.
FAQs
What type of bread is best for making classic French toast?
Any bread with structure like brioche or sourdough holds well and absorbs the batter flavorfully.
How do I keep French toast from turning soggy?
Ensure your bread is slightly stale before using and avoid over-soaking in the egg mixture.
Can I make French toast ahead of time or freeze it?
Yes, cook ahead and freeze in a single layer; reheat in a toaster for crisp results.
What toppings go well with classic French toast?
Fresh fruits, whipped cream, honey, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar are great choices!
Recipes you may like
- Creamy Mango Banana Smoothie for a Fresh Morning Boost
- Pineapple Green Smoothie
- Gluten-Free Lemon Crinkle Cookies
To summarize, this classic French toast brings our family together, infusing our home with warmth and sweet smells. Bookmark this recipe and say goodbye to ordinary breakfasts — like Anna always says, "Every day’s a little better with a stack of good French toast."
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Classic French Toast
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Bringing a piece of breakfast heaven with classic French toast, a family favorite that is quick, easy, and versatile.
Ingredients
- 6 slices one-day-old bread (brioche, milk, or hokkaido)
- 4 eggs
- 240 ml full-fat milk
- 120 ml whipping cream
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla paste
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp clarified butter
Instructions
-
Prepare the slices: Cut the bread into 2-3 cm (about 1 inch) thick slices.
-
Mix the batter: In a deep baking dish, combine the eggs, milk, whipping cream, salt, vanilla, and sugar. Beat with a whisk until smooth.
-
Soak the bread: Dip each slice into the mixture. Make sure each slice absorbs enough liquid and prick with a fork if needed.
-
Heat the pan: Place a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat and melt the butter and clarified butter.
-
Cook the toast: Transfer the French toast to the pan, cooking two slices at a time for about 4 minutes per side.
-
Drain & serve: Use a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil. Divide between plates and serve warm, optionally dusted with icing sugar or drizzled with maple syrup.
Notes
- Choose the right bread: Day-old bread works best because it holds up without getting too soggy.
- Customize toppings: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a handful of fresh berries for a fruity twist.
- Avoid overcrowding: For a crispy crust, avoid placing too many pieces in the pan at once.
- Want to make it a little healthier? Substitute reduced-fat milk for full-fat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5 grams
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 15 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 8 grams
- Cholesterol: 200 mg
