French Toast Recipe

Bread: Preferably stale, as it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.

Eggs: Acts as the base for the custard mixture that coats the bread.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture, helping to create a rich texture.

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

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

Butter: Used for cooking, it gives 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 in the mixture for a few seconds to ensure it absorbs enough liquid without falling apart. When cooking, maintain a medium heat to prevent the butter from burning and to cook the toast evenly.

• stale bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and buttery, making it an excellent alternative for a more decadent French toast.

• stale bread - Substitute with challah: Challah is slightly sweet and has a soft texture, which absorbs the egg mixture well.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon 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 provides a slightly nutty flavor.

• 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 equally delightful flavor profile.

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

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides 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 and works well for cooking.

• butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a higher smoke point and a rich, nutty flavor, making it a great alternative for cooking.

• Allow the French toast to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from making the toast soggy.
• Once cooled, place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This ensures they freeze individually and don't stick together.
• Pop the baking sheet into the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the French toast slices are solid.
• Transfer the frozen slices into a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Be sure to label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
• For added protection against freezer burn, you can wrap each slice in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the bag or container.
• When you're ready to enjoy, reheat the frozen French toast by placing it in a toaster, toaster oven, or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave the slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, this method may result in a slightly softer texture.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, consider reheating the French toast in a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of butter or cooking oil until warmed and crispy.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover French toast on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This method ensures the French toast remains crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

• Use a toaster oven for a quicker option. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and place the French toast directly on the rack. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet. Place the French toast in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy.

• If you're in a hurry, use the microwave. Place the French toast on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.

• For an air fryer method, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the French toast is crispy and heated through.

• 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 smoothly.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the coated bread slices.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the bread slices to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk accurately.

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

• Butter knife: Used to spread the butter on the skillet.

• Plate: Used to serve the cooked French toast.

• Serving utensils: Used to add toppings like syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.

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

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

Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the butter to speed up cooking.

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

Use a non-stick skillet: This reduces the need for extra butter and makes flipping easier.