French Toast Recipe

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

Eggs: The base of the custard mixture, providing richness and structure.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the custard mixture.

Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with a sweet, aromatic flavor.

Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the dish.

Butter: Used for cooking, giving the French toast a golden, crispy exterior.

To achieve a perfectly golden and crispy French toast, make sure to use stale bread. Fresh bread tends to become too soggy when dipped in the egg mixture. Additionally, allow the bread to soak for just a few seconds on each side to ensure it absorbs the flavors without falling apart.

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

• stale bread - Substitute with challah: Challah's soft texture and slight sweetness enhance the flavor and texture of French toast.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This is a great vegan alternative.

• eggs - Substitute with banana: Use half a mashed banana for each egg. It adds natural sweetness and works well as a binder.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that provides a similar consistency to milk.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor profile.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds sweetness and a unique flavor that pairs well with French toast.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, slightly sweet flavor that complements French toast.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon and other spices, adding depth to the flavor.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a plant-based option that works similarly to butter in cooking.

• Allow the French toast to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
• Place the cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Flash-freeze the slices for about 1-2 hours until they are firm. This step ensures they maintain their shape and texture.
• Transfer the frozen slices into a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the frozen slices on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, you can use a toaster or toaster oven for a quicker option.
• For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the refrigerated slices in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or use a toaster for a crispier texture.
• Pair your reheated French toast with fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful breakfast treat.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast slices on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the crispy texture.

• Use a toaster oven for a quick reheat. Set it to medium heat and toast the French toast slices for 2-3 minutes. This method is great for maintaining the golden brown exterior.

• For a stovetop reheat, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Place the French toast slices in the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until warmed through. This method ensures a buttery finish.

• Microwave the French toast slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds. This method is quick but may result in a softer texture.

• Use an air fryer for a crispy reheat. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the French toast slices in a single layer. Heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method keeps the French toast crispy and delicious.

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

• Whisk: A utensil used to blend the egg mixture until smooth and well combined.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the bread slices over medium heat.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the bread slices to ensure they are golden brown on both sides.

• Measuring cups: Tools used to measure out the milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure the vanilla extract and cinnamon precisely.

• Butter knife: A knife used to spread the butter in the skillet before cooking the bread.

• Plate: A dish used to serve the cooked French toast.

• Serving utensils: Tools like forks and knives used to enjoy the French toast with your favorite toppings.

Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, reducing soak time.

Pre-mix ingredients: Whisk eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon the night before.

Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding butter to cook faster.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple bread slices at once if your skillet is large enough.

Use a non-stick skillet: A non-stick skillet requires less butter and speeds up cleaning.