How to Make Perfect French Toast | Simple Breakfast Recipe
This classic French toast is made with simple pantry ingredients and comes together in just 15 minutes — perfect for busy mornings, weekend brunches, or holiday breakfasts. This best French toast recipe is quick, easy, and always comes out perfectly golden. Known as pain perdu in French, this perennial breakfast favorite is the ultimate comfort food. It’s endlessly customizable with toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, berries, or whipped cream — and it can be made dairy-free or low-sugar if needed.
🥰 Why You’ll Love This French Toast Recipe
This easy and delicious breakfast classic is a must-try for those who love warm, golden-brown, custardy bread slices with vanilla and cinnamon. Why this easy French toast recipe is perfect for your next morning meal:
- Quick and easy breakfast: Ready in just 15 minutes with pantry staples like eggs, milk, and bread.
- Crunchy outside, soft inside: This perfect French toast is lightly crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle.
- Family-friendly and kid-approved: Everyone from toddlers to adults will eat this classic breakfast recipe – it’s always a hit!
- Great for brunch or a weekend treat: Whether you’re hosting a brunch party or making a cozy weekend breakfast, this dish looks fancy but is incredibly easy to make.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings: Add maple syrup, powdered sugar, berries, bananas, or even Nutella for a restaurant-quality meal at home.
- Perfect use for day-old bread: This recipe works best with slightly stale bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast – no waste!
- Versatile and adaptable: Easily turn it into stuffed French toast, make it dairy-free, or even savory – the possibilities are endless!
🥖 Ingredients You’ll Need to Make the Best French Toast
Wondering what ingredients you need for classic French toast? This simple breakfast favorite uses pantry staples and a few flavorful touches. Below is your complete French toast ingredients list for fluffy, golden perfection every time!
📝 Basic French Toast Ingredients
- 4 slices thick bread – Brioche, challah, French bread, or Texas toast work best.
- 2 large eggs – For a rich and creamy custard base.
- 1/2 cup whole milk or cream – Cream makes it extra indulgent.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – Optional, but gives that cozy, spiced flavor.
- Pinch of salt – Balances out the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 tbsp butter – For frying, gives a crisp golden crust.
🧁 Optional Toppings & Add-ins
- Pure maple syrup – A must for classic French toast lovers.
- Fresh berries – Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries for color and taste.
- Powdered sugar – A simple sprinkle makes it pop.
- Whipped cream – Optional, but so indulgent!
- Banana slices, honey, or Nutella – For extra flair and flavor.
💡 Pro Tip: For the best results, use day-old or slightly stale bread – it soaks up the custard without falling apart!
Related Keywords:
🥞 Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make the Best French Toast
Follow these simple steps to create a warm, golden, and fluffy French toast—perfect for breakfast or brunch. This classic recipe is quick, easy, and delicious!
✅ Step 1: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This creates your flavorful French toast batter that soaks into the bread.
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
✅ Step 2: Dip the Bread Slices
Use thick-cut bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast. These are the best breads for French toast because they absorb the custard perfectly without getting soggy.
Gently dip each slice into the custard mixture for 10–15 seconds per side, allowing the bread to soak just enough.
Pro Tip: Slightly stale bread works best—it soaks up more flavor and holds its shape!
✅ Step 3: Preheat Your Pan
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt completely to coat the surface evenly.
For a crispier crust, use a mix of butter and a splash of oil to prevent burning and promote even browning.
✅ Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown
Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot pan. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and slightly crisp.
Flip carefully and avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
✅ Step 5: Serve and Add Toppings
Transfer your homemade French toast to a plate and serve warm. Add your favorite toppings for a perfect finish.
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Nutella or caramel drizzle
Easy Homemade French Toast Recipe | Ready in 15 Minutes!
This is that amazing French toast recipe that has the word "French" in the name but it is not a French dish. It is an American dish that will take you only 15 minutes to make. This crunchy, golden brown homemade French toast is a versatile recipe. So let's take a look at this amazingly easy recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk (or cream)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp butter (for frying)
- Toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, berries (optional)
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 312Total Fat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 104mgSodium: 258mgCarbohydrates: 55gFiber: 2gSugar: 38gProtein: 7g
🍞 Best Bread for French Toast (Top 5 Picks for Perfect Results)
Choosing the right bread for French toast makes all the difference. The best bread should be thick, sturdy, and slightly stale so it can soak up the custard without becoming mushy. Here’s a list of the top 5 breads for French toast to create a perfect golden-brown breakfast.
🥐 Brioche
Best for: Fluffy and buttery French toast
Rich, soft, and slightly sweet. Brioche absorbs custard well and fries up beautifully.
Tip: Let it dry out before using to prevent sogginess.
🍞 Challah
Best for: Sweet, golden French toast
Eggy and light with a soft crumb. Ideal for sweet toppings and beautiful presentation.
🍞 Texas Toast
Best for: Classic diner-style French toast
Thick-cut and widely available. Its neutral flavor lets toppings shine.
Avoid garlic-seasoned versions!
🥖 French Baguette
Best for: Rustic or savory French toast
Chewier and firm. Perfect for a crusty texture and longer soaking.
Slice thick and soak longer for best results.
🍞 Sourdough
Best for: Tangy gourmet-style French toast
Bold flavor and chewy texture. Great with berries, honey, or maple syrup.
Use for a more adult-style breakfast flavor.
📝 Key Takeaway:
- Use thick-sliced bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast.
- Dry or day-old bread works best for soaking up custard.
- Avoid thin, fresh sandwich bread that may become soggy.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the best store-bought bread for French toast?
A: Look for thick-cut brioche or challah in the bakery section. Texas toast is a solid backup.
Q: Can I use fresh bread for French toast?
A: Fresh bread tends to get soggy. Dry it in the oven at 300°F for 8–10 minutes to firm it up before dipping.
🍯 Best French Toast Topping Ideas | Tasty & Creative Ways to Elevate Your Breakfast
Take your French Toast to the next level with these delicious and creative topping ideas. Whether you love sweet or savory, we’ve got something for everyone!
1. Classic Maple Syrup
Nothing beats the classic maple syrup drizzled generously over your French toast. The sweetness complements the crispy, buttery toast perfectly.
2. Fresh Berries
Top your French toast with fresh blueberries, strawberries, or any other berries for a fresh, fruity topping that’s both healthy and vibrant.
3. Powdered Sugar
For a lighter touch, dust your French toast with powdered sugar for a sweet, elegant finish that’s perfect for brunch.
4. Whipped Cream
A dollop of whipped cream makes a creamy, airy addition to your French toast, balancing out the richness with a light, fluffy texture.
5. Nutella or Peanut Butter
For a more indulgent topping, spread Nutella or peanut butter on top of your French toast for a creamy, chocolaty, or nutty twist.
6. Caramelized Bananas
Top your French toast with caramelized bananas for a warm, decadent finish that’s rich and comforting.
7. Greek Yogurt & Honey
For a healthier option, top your French toast with a dollop of Greek yogurt and drizzle with honey for a creamy, tangy contrast.
8. Crispy Bacon or Sausage
For a savory twist, add crispy bacon or sausage to your French toast. The sweet and salty combination is unbeatable!
9. Chocolate Chips
Top with chocolate chips for a melty, gooey treat. Perfect for a chocolatey breakfast or dessert!
10. Cinnamon Sugar
A simple sprinkle of cinnamon sugar will add a warm, spiced flavor to your French toast for an easy, delicious upgrade.
11. Almonds or Pecans
Add a crunchy topping with toasted almonds or pecans for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
12. Lemon Zest
For a refreshing touch, top with a sprinkle of lemon zest for a citrusy zing that complements the sweetness of your French toast.
French Toast Variations: 6 Delicious Twists to Try!
French toast is incredibly versatile, allowing for a variety of delicious twists on the classic recipe. Here are 6 must-try variations to elevate your breakfast game!
Stuffed French Toast
For a delicious breakfast, stuffed French toast is a game-changer! Fill thick slices of bread with a creamy filling like cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves. It’s perfect for a special brunch or when you want to impress your guests with something extra special. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a sweeter taste.
Pro Tip: Use slightly thicker bread (like brioche or challah) for the best stuffing-to-bread ratio.
Vegan French Toast
Vegan French toast is the way to go if you follow a plant-based diet or want to avoid eggs and dairy. Create a custard-like base using a simple blend of almond milk, flax seeds, and cinnamon. Serve with fresh berries, maple syrup, or coconut whipped cream for a delicious dairy-free breakfast.
Pro Tip: For a rich texture, use full-fat coconut milk or oat milk as your liquid base.
Savory French Toast
Who says French toast has to be sweet? Savory French toast is a fantastic option for those who love a hearty, savory breakfast. Skip the vanilla and sugar and instead add cheese, herbs, and even bacon or ham. Think of it as a French toast sandwich without the need for extra bread slices.
Pro Tip: Top with a poached egg and drizzle with hollandaise sauce for an extra indulgent twist.
Low-Carb French Toast
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, don’t worry—you can still enjoy French toast! Use keto-friendly bread (like almond flour or coconut flour bread) and use heavy cream or almond milk instead of regular milk. You can also sweeten with stevia or monk fruit for a lower-sugar option.
Pro Tip: Serve with a handful of fresh berries and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a guilt-free treat.
Cinnamon Roll French Toast
For a unique flavor, try making Cinnamon Roll French Toast. This variation combines the warm, spicy sweetness of a cinnamon roll with the flavor of classic French toast. Simply dip the cinnamon roll slices into the egg custard and cook as usual. The result is a rich, spicy French toast that is perfect for a holiday breakfast.
Pro Tip: Drizzle with cream cheese icing for the ultimate indulgence.
Gluten-Free French Toast
For those who are gluten intolerant or prefer a gluten-free diet, this French toast variation uses gluten-free bread, making it just as delicious as the classic recipe. Use a rich egg custard with dairy-free milk to coat the bread slices (if desired). It’s the perfect option for a hearty breakfast without gluten.
Pro Tip: Look for gluten-free bread that is thick enough to hold up during soaking but soft enough for a fluffy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About French Toast
The best bread for French toast is thick, sturdy bread that can absorb the custard without falling apart. Popular options include brioche, challah, and Texas toast. Brioche is a favorite for its buttery flavor, while challah offers a slightly sweet, airy texture. Texas toast is thick and perfect for a fluffy, hearty French toast. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat or sourdough can also work well.
Yes, you can easily make dairy-free French toast by substituting regular milk with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. For a richer texture, coconut milk or cashew milk are great choices. Just make sure to choose unsweetened versions to avoid adding unwanted sugar.
To get crispy French toast, the key is using a hot skillet and a good amount of butter or butter and oil. Medium-high heat ensures the outside crisps up without burning the inside. Also, using slightly stale bread will help the toast hold up better and get crispier. Avoid soaking the bread too long to keep it from becoming soggy.
If you’re looking for an egg-free French toast recipe, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or silken tofu. Almond milk or coconut milk can be used as the base, and you can add a pinch of turmeric for color and a dash of vanilla for flavor.
Yes, you can prep French toast ahead of time! You can make the custard (egg and milk mixture) a day in advance and store it in the fridge. For make-ahead French toast, you can either refrigerate the cooked slices and reheat them in the toaster or oven, or prepare a baked French toast casserole that you can bake the next morning for a stress-free breakfast.
A soggy French toast can be the result of over-soaking the bread or using bread that’s too soft. To prevent sogginess, use thicker slices of bread like brioche or Texas toast that can absorb the custard without getting too mushy. Also, don’t soak the bread for too long—just enough to coat both sides, and cook on a hot skillet for a crispy finish.
Yes! While French toast is traditionally served as a sweet breakfast, it can also be made savory. Simply omit the sugar and vanilla from the custard mixture and instead use a pinch of salt and some herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can top your savory French toast with cheese, avocado, eggs, or even bacon for a unique twist.
To make French toast healthier, you can swap out some ingredients for lighter alternatives. Use whole grain or gluten-free bread, choose a low-fat milk or a dairy-free option, and reduce the amount of butter. You can also opt for fruit toppings instead of syrup to keep things light and nutritious. Adding nuts or seeds on top can provide extra protein and healthy fats.
Yes, you can freeze French toast! To freeze, cook the French toast as usual, then let it cool completely. Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.
Stuffed French toast is a delicious variation where you add a filling between two slices of bread. Popular fillings include cream cheese, mascarpone, or Nutella, along with fresh fruits like berries or bananas. To make stuffed French toast, spread your chosen filling on one slice, top with another slice of bread, and then cook as you would regular French toast. Serve with powdered sugar or syrup on top.
If you like this article about the French Toast Recipe, please share it with your friends on Facebook and Pinterest. Also, subscribe to my blog to get all the latest content first on your mobile.
