How To Make French Toast

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French toast is a timeless breakfast dish that has graced tables around the world with its simple elegance and delicious taste. Made from soaked bread, eggs, and milk, then fried to golden perfection, French toast is a versatile dish that can be dressed up or down with various toppings and flavors.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy breakfast for the family or serving up a brunch feast, mastering the art of French toast is a must for any home cook. In this post, I’ll share my go-to recipe, along with some tips to make your French toast truly unforgettable.

Nutritional Information

French toast, while indulgent, can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. The nutritional content can vary depending on the ingredients used, such as the type of bread, milk, and toppings.

A typical serving of French toast (two slices) made with whole milk and white bread, without toppings, approximately provides:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 22g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 460mg

Remember, opting for whole grain bread, low-fat milk, or egg substitutes can alter these values for a healthier twist.

Cook Time (Prep and Cook)

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients List

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup of milk (any kind will do, but whole milk gives a richer flavor)
• 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional)
• 8 slices of bread (thick slices of day-old bread work best)
• Butter or oil for frying
• Toppings of choice: maple syrup, fresh fruits, powdered sugar, whipped cream, etc.

Step by Step Instructions

1. Whisk the Batter: In a shallow bowl large enough to dip your bread, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
2. Prep the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20-30 seconds on each side. Note: If your bread is very fresh, you can dry it out in the oven for a few minutes first to prevent it from getting too soggy.
3. Heat the Pan: While the bread is soaking, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to coat the bottom of the pan.
4. Cook: Place the soaked slices of bread onto the hot skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
5. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite toppings. Maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream all make excellent choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is one common mistake when preparing French toast?

One common mistake when preparing French toast is not allowing the bread to soak in the egg mixture long enough. This step is crucial for achieving the custardy interior that French toast is famous for.

When the bread is only dipped briefly, it doesn’t absorb enough of the egg and milk mixture, leading to a dry and less flavorful outcome. Ideally, the bread should be soaked for about 20-30 seconds on each side, especially if you’re using thicker slices or slightly stale bread, which is actually preferred for French toast.

This ensures that the mixture permeates the bread, resulting in a rich, moist interior beneath a crispy, golden exterior. Taking the time to properly soak the bread can make the difference between an okay French toast and a truly delectable breakfast treat.

What should we avoid when making French toast?

When making French toast, it’s crucial to avoid using overly fresh bread, as it tends to become too soggy when soaked in the egg mixture. Day-old or slightly stale bread, which is firmer and more absorbent, makes for a better texture, balancing crispiness on the outside with a soft, custardy inside.

Another common pitfall is either under-soaking or over-soaking the bread. Under-soaked bread leads to a dry, lackluster finish, while over-soaked bread can become too heavy and fall apart during cooking.

Additionally, cooking at the wrong temperature can ruin French toast: too high, and the outside burns before the inside is done; too low, and the bread soaks up too much oil, becoming greasy without getting that delightful crisp edge. Managing these aspects carefully can elevate your French toast from simply good to absolutely delicious.

Helpful Resources

• Find out more about us at Old Fashioned Cravings
• All our recipes
• Frozen French Toast for when you are in a hurry

Wrap-Up

French toast is a delightful and easy dish that brings a touch of elegance to any breakfast or brunch table. With this simple recipe, you can create a delicious meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Remember, the key to great French toast is in the bread you choose and letting it soak up the egg mixture just enough to infuse it with flavor without becoming too soggy. Experiment with different toppings and variations to find your perfect match. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!