If you have ever craved a warm, comforting breakfast that feels like a hug on a plate, this Basic French Toast Recipe is your new best friend. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it transforms ordinary bread into golden, custardy slices that soak up syrup and melt in your mouth. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet vanilla and warm cinnamon, making it an irresistible start to any morning or a delightful brunch to share. This recipe is so easy and satisfying that once you try it, it will become your go-to whenever you want a quick yet impressive breakfast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating that luscious texture and rich flavor. Using thick slices of bread gives the toast a sturdy, fluffy bite, while cinnamon and vanilla add that unmistakable cozy aroma.
- 4 slices of thick bread (such as brioche or Texas toast): Day-old bread works best to soak up the custard without falling apart.
- 2 large eggs: The backbone of the custard mixture that gives richness and structure.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess; for extra indulgence, half-and-half can be substituted.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warm, fragrant flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the toast.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for cooking): Creates that golden, crispy exterior and prevents sticking.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving (optional): Ideal toppings to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
How to Make Basic French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Custard Mixture
Start by cracking the eggs into a shallow bowl, then whisk in the whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined. This custard is the magic that soaks into your bread and turns it golden and tender once cooked.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Melt Butter
Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the tablespoon of unsalted butter, coating the surface evenly. The butter not only prevents sticking but also adds a beautiful richness and wonderful browning to your French toast.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Take one slice of your thick bread and dip it into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak up the liquid for a few seconds per side. Be sure not to oversoak, or the bread may become soggy and harder to flip. Let any excess custard drip off before placing the slice in the hot skillet.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown
Cook each soaked slice for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until it develops a golden brown crust and feels firm to the touch. Repeat the dipping and cooking process with all remaining slices, adding a bit more butter to the pan as needed to keep everything from sticking.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once cooked, serve your Basic French Toast Recipe piping hot. The warmth releases the full aroma of vanilla and cinnamon, making it nearly impossible to wait before diving in.
How to Serve Basic French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Basic French Toast Recipe is how versatile it is with toppings. Powdered sugar dusted lightly over the top adds a pretty, snowy touch and a bit of extra sweetness. Maple syrup is a classic drizzle, soaking into every bite and delivering cozy caramel notes that perfectly complement the cinnamon in the toast.
Side Dishes
Pair your French toast with fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of Greek yogurt also enhances the richness and adds some cooling creaminess. For a heartier plate, you can add crispy bacon or sausage on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch that wows, stack your French toast slices and thread a skewer with berries and mint leaves between the layers. You can also cut the toast into bite-sized cubes, toss them with cinnamon sugar, and serve alongside a small bowl of warmed maple syrup for dipping—a fun twist everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover French toast (which is rare, but it can happen), place the cooled slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. This keeps the toast fresh without drying it out.
Freezing
French toast freezes wonderfully. After cooling completely, arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen French toast can last up to one month and is a fantastic time-saver for busy mornings.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat frozen or refrigerated French toast slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This restores their crisp texture without making them soggy, so they feel freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche or Texas toast?
Absolutely! While brioche and Texas toast are ideal for their thickness and softness, you can use challah, sandwich bread, or even a sturdy white or whole wheat bread. Just make sure the slices are thick and not too fresh so they soak up the custard well.
What if I don’t have cinnamon or vanilla extract?
You can still make delicious French toast without these, but they do add a wonderful flavor boost. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract as a substitute. Or simply enjoy the custardy bread with maple syrup—it’s still great!
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this Basic French Toast Recipe dairy-free, substitute the whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk. Use a coconut oil or vegan butter for cooking, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same for an equally tasty result.
Is it better to use fresh or stale bread?
Day-old or slightly stale bread is best because it soaks up the custard without falling apart. Fresh bread may become too soggy and difficult to flip, so if your bread is very fresh, let it dry out for a few hours before dipping.
Can I add extra flavors to the custard?
Definitely! A pinch of nutmeg, orange zest, or even a drizzle of honey can add wonderful nuances to your custard mixture. Feel free to experiment and make this Basic French Toast Recipe your own.
Final Thoughts
Once you master this Basic French Toast Recipe, you’ll have a reliable, crowd-pleasing breakfast ready in just minutes. It’s a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for lazy weekends or when you want to treat your loved ones with something homemade and heartfelt. Grab your favorite bread, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the delicious comfort of homemade French toast—it just might become your favorite weekend ritual.
Print
Basic French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic and easy-to-make Basic French Toast featuring thick slices of bread soaked in a rich egg custard, cooked to golden perfection on the stovetop. Perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch, served with optional maple syrup and powdered sugar.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 slices thick bread (such as brioche or Texas toast)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for cooking)
- Pinch of salt
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Whisk the custard: In a shallow bowl, combine eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together until well combined for a smooth custard mixture.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter evenly across the surface to prevent sticking and to add flavor.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg custard, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side so it absorbs a good amount without becoming soggy.
- Cook the French toast: Let excess custard drip off the bread slices and transfer them to the hot skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, turning carefully until each side is golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat and serve: Continue with the remaining bread slices, adding more butter to the pan if needed. Serve the French toast warm topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of milk for an extra rich custard.
- Day-old bread is best as it soaks up the custard without falling apart.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon for extra warm flavor.
