Classic French Toast

There's something undeniably nostalgic about making Classic French Toast, and I can’t help but smile when I think back to those lazy Sunday mornings at my grandma’s house. The smell of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the air as she whisked together rich, creamy custard always filled our hearts with warmth. We'd gather around her worn wooden table, plates piled high with golden, syrup-drizzled slices, ready to dive into a breakfast that felt like a big hug. It’s a tradition I cherish and love to recreate for my own family on weekends, or even as a special treat during the week.

This Classic French Toast recipe is perfect for those cozy mornings when you want to linger over your meal and savor every bite. It’s quick to whip up, requires minimal ingredients, and is sure to bring everyone to the table, smiling and asking for seconds. Whether it’s a holiday brunch or just a regular Tuesday, this dish brings a touch of joy that makes any day feel a little more special.

Why You’ll Love "Classic French Toast"

• Quick prep time of just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
• Kids love it! It’s a family-friendly breakfast that pleases everyone.
• Freezer-friendly! Make a big batch and store for easy breakfasts later.
• Versatile; you can add toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, or nuts.
• Customizable with spices or extracts to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Custard:
  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk (I usually go for heavy cream for that extra richness!)
  • 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract (don’t skimp on quality here; it makes a world of difference!)
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
• For the French Toast:
  • 6 slices of bread, preferably day-old (I love using a thick-cut brioche or challah, but any bread works just fine!)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 tablespoons vegetable oil (this helps achieve that perfect golden crust!)
  • Pure maple syrup, for serving (optional, but highly recommended for that sweet finish!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Before we get cooking, let’s preheat your oven to a warm 200°F (about 95°C). This is where we’ll keep our perfectly cooked French toast warm while we finish up the rest of the batch. It’s a little trick I learned to ensure everyone enjoys a hot breakfast together!

Make the Custard Mixture

In a mixing bowl, crack those 6 large eggs and whisk them together until they’re nice and frothy. Pour in 1 ½ cups of heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk — whichever you have on hand. Add in the 2 tablespoons of pure vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, a pinch of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. Don’t be shy; the more you whisk, the better it will be! It should look rich and creamy — just like a hug in a bowl!

Heat the Skillet

Now it’s time to heat things up! Place your skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter along with 4 tablespoons of vegetable oil. This combination helps create that beautiful golden crust we all love. Let the butter melt and start to bubble, but don’t let it burn! You’ll know it’s ready when it’s nice and sizzling — that’s your cue!

Dip and Cook the Bread

Grab your 6 slices of bread (day-old is ideal, but fresh works too!). Take each slice and dip it into the custard mixture, letting it soak for just a few seconds on each side. Make sure both surfaces are coated but don’t let it get too soggy — we want soft, not mush! Carefully place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook each slice until it’s golden brown on one side, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and repeat on the other side. If you’re feeling fancy, you can gently press down on the bread with a spatula to help it crisp up nicely. Once both sides are golden and crispy, transfer them to the oven to keep warm while you cook the rest. Just imagine the delicious smell filling your kitchen!

Variations

• For a seasonal twist, add pumpkin spice to the custard in fall.
• Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
• Try adding a tablespoon of orange zest to brighten the flavor.
• Substitute the bread with gluten-free options like almond flour bread.
• Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh berries for added protein.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

To serve your Classic French Toast, stack the warm slices on a plate and drizzle generously with pure maple syrup. If you’re feeling adventurous, top with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for a breakfast that feels extra special. I love serving mine with crispy bacon or sausage on the side for a delightful sweet and savory combination!

Storage

If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the French toast cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat it in the toaster or a skillet over low heat for a quick breakfast. If you want to keep it longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. Just pop them in the toaster straight from the freezer, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast ready in no time!

Helpful Notes

• For a lighter version, use egg whites instead of whole eggs.
• Feel free to swap out the milk for almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
• Add a teaspoon of nutmeg for an extra kick of flavor.
• Consider using gluten-free bread for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Pair with yogurt or cottage cheese for extra protein and creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Classic French Toast?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze Classic French Toast! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. Just pop them straight into the toaster from the freezer for a quick breakfast.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, half-and-half or whole milk will work just fine! For a lighter option, you can even use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.

How do I know when the French Toast is done cooking?

You’ll know the French Toast is done when it’s golden brown on both sides and slightly firm to the touch. A good rule of thumb is to cook each side for about 2-3 minutes. If it’s browning too quickly, lower the heat!

Can I use any type of bread?

Yes! While I love using brioche or challah for their richness, you can use any bread you like. Just make sure it’s thick-cut, preferably day-old, to soak up that custard without falling apart.

Can I add flavors to the custard mixture?

Absolutely! You can get creative by adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or even a splash of orange or almond extract for a twist. Just adjust to your taste!

Final Thoughts

Making Classic French Toast is about more than just breakfast; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. I hope you feel inspired to try this recipe and share those warm, syrupy slices with your loved ones. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a simple weekday treat, this dish is bound to bring smiles and happy bellies. Remember, cooking is meant to be joyful and a little messy, so don’t stress about perfection. Dive in, enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait for you to experience the magic of French toast!