French Toast Recipe

Bread: Preferably stale, as it absorbs the egg mixture better and results in a crispier texture.

Eggs: Acts as the binding agent and provides a rich, custardy base for the toast.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture, making the French toast soft and fluffy.

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

Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness of the French toast.

Butter: Used for cooking the French toast, giving it a rich, golden-brown crust.

When making French toast, ensure the bread is slightly stale. Fresh bread can become too soggy when dipped in the egg mixture. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out a bit by toasting it lightly before dipping. This helps the bread absorb the egg mixture evenly and results in a perfectly crispy exterior.

• stale bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and buttery, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.

• stale bread - Substitute with challah: Challah is slightly sweet and soft, making it an excellent alternative for a rich French toast.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This works well for a vegan option.

• eggs - Substitute with banana: Use ¼ cup of mashed banana per egg. This adds a natural sweetness and binds the ingredients together.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a great dairy-free alternative that maintains the creamy texture.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a rich, tropical flavor and is also dairy-free.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the dish.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon, nutmeg, and other spices, adding a complex flavor.

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

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a plant-based alternative that mimics the texture and cooking properties of butter.

• Allow the French toast to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
• Once cooled, place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Flash freeze the slices for about 1-2 hours until they are firm to the touch.
• Transfer the frozen slices to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container, separating each slice with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Label the bag or container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

To reheat:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the frozen French toast slices on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a toaster or toaster oven for a quicker option.
• Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast slices on a baking sheet and cover them with aluminum foil. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Use a toaster oven for a quick reheat. Set it to medium heat and toast the French toast slices for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated to your liking.
• For a microwave option, place the French toast slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway through.
• If you prefer a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter and reheat the French toast slices for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are warm and slightly crispy.
• For an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast slices in a single layer and heat for 3-4 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.

• 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 French toast slices evenly.

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

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk accurately.

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

• Plate: Used to serve the cooked French toast slices.

• Knife: Optional, for cutting the French toast into smaller pieces if desired.

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

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

Heat the skillet: Preheat the skillet while preparing the bread to save cooking time.

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

Use a griddle: A griddle can cook more slices simultaneously, speeding up the process.

Prep toppings ahead: Have your favorite toppings ready to go before you start cooking.