Mini French Toast Bites Recipe

Bread: Preferably stale, as it absorbs the egg mixture better.

Eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds richness.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy texture in the egg mixture.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor.

Cinnamon: Provides a warm and spicy note.

Butter: Used for cooking the bread pieces to a golden brown.

When preparing French toast bites, ensure the bread is slightly stale. This helps it absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out by leaving it uncovered overnight or toasting it lightly.

• stale bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and slightly sweet, making it a perfect alternative for French toast.

• stale bread - Substitute with challah: Challah has a similar texture and flavor profile, ideal for soaking up the egg mixture.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a great vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that works well in the recipe without altering the flavor significantly.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a subtle, sweet flavor and is a good dairy-free alternative.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of flavor that complements the French toast.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but delightful flavor profile.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, slightly sweet flavor that can replace cinnamon.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon along with other spices, adding a richer flavor.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free option that adds a slight coconut flavor and works well for cooking.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a non-dairy alternative that can be used for cooking the French toast bites.

• Allow the mini French toast bites to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled bites in an airtight container. If stacking, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
• To freeze, arrange the French toast bites in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Transfer the frozen bites to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, use a toaster oven or microwave for quicker reheating.
• For an extra crispy texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of butter until warmed and golden brown.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the mini French toast bites on a baking sheet in a single layer. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are heated through. This method ensures they remain crispy on the outside while being warm and soft inside.

• For a quick and easy method, use the microwave. Place the mini French toast bites on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on high for 20-30 seconds, checking to ensure they are warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become rubbery.

• If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, use a toaster oven. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mini French toast bites on the toaster oven tray and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps maintain their crispiness while warming them evenly.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or cooking spray to the skillet. Place the mini French toast bites in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the mini French toast bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method gives them a delightful crunch.

• For a steam method, place the mini French toast bites in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes or until they are heated through. This method keeps them moist and tender without drying out.

• Cutting board: A sturdy surface to safely cut the bread into bite-sized pieces.

• Knife: Used to cut the bread into small, manageable pieces.

• Mixing bowl: A bowl to whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.

• Whisk: A tool to thoroughly mix the egg mixture.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan to cook the French toast bites evenly.

• Spatula: Used to flip the bread pieces in the skillet to ensure they are golden brown on all sides.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the vanilla extract and cinnamon precisely.

• Serving plate: To serve the warm French toast bites with your favorite toppings.

Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, saving you time on soaking.

Pre-mix ingredients: Whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon the night before to save time in the morning.

Cut bread in advance: Pre-cut the bread into bite-sized pieces and store in an airtight container.

Use a large skillet: A larger skillet allows you to cook more French toast bites at once, reducing cooking time.

Batch cooking: Cook in batches and keep the finished French toast bites warm in the oven at low heat.