Homemade French Toast
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a plate of homemade French toast. It’s the kind of breakfast that can take you back to lazy Sunday mornings, where the air is filled with the aroma of cinnamon, vanilla, and butter. This recipe is not just any French toast; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures, featuring thick slices of Texas toast that soak up a rich custard mixture and are perfectly crisped on the outside. Whether you’re serving it for a festive brunch or a simple weekday breakfast, this Homemade French Toast is bound to impress.
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets this recipe apart is the combination of creamy custard and the generous use of butter for cooking. The custard, made with eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, creates a rich flavor that permeates each slice of bread. Using Texas toast ensures that every bite is soft and fluffy, while the outside gets beautifully golden and crisp. Topping it off with a drizzle of maple syrup makes for a dreamy breakfast experience. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, which is always a win in my book!
What You’ll Need
To whip up this delicious Homemade French Toast, gather the following ingredients:
- Butter for the skillet and for serving
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 loaf of Texas Toast (14 slices, see note 1)
- Maple syrup for serving
Equipment Breakdown
Before you dive into cooking, make sure you have the following kitchen tools handy:
- Large mixing bowl: For whisking together the egg mixture.
- Whisk: To blend your ingredients smoothly.
- Skillet or griddle: A non-stick option works best for easy flipping.
- Spatula: For flipping the toast without any hassle.
- Serving plate: To present your scrumptious French toast.
Homemade French Toast: From Prep to Plate
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Homemade French Toast masterpiece.
Step 1: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 eggs and whisk them together until they’re well combined. Add in the 1/2 cup of milk and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
Step 2: Prepare the Skillet
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add a generous pat of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Dip the Texas Toast
Take a slice of Texas toast and dip it into the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides. Let any excess mixture drip off before placing it in the skillet.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Place the soaked slice on the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown. Flip it over with a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
Step 5: Repeat and Serve
Repeat the process with the remaining slices of bread, adding more butter to the skillet as needed. Once all the French toast is cooked, serve immediately with a drizzle of maple syrup and an extra pat of butter on top.
How to Make It Lighter
If you’re looking to lighten up your Homemade French Toast, consider these alternatives:
- Use low-fat or almond milk instead of whole milk.
- Substitute some of the eggs with egg whites to reduce cholesterol.
- Try a whole grain or gluten-free bread for added nutrients.
- Use a light cooking spray instead of butter for frying.
Don’t Do This
When making your Homemade French Toast, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Don’t let the bread soak too long; it can become soggy.
- Avoid cooking on too high of heat; this will burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
- Don’t skip the butter—it’s essential for flavor and crispiness.
- Don’t rush the cooking process; allow each slice to get golden brown for the best texture.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead of time, here’s how to cool, store, and rewarm your Homemade French Toast:
- Let the French toast cool completely before storing.
- Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, layer slices between parchment paper and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the microwave or in a toaster oven until warmed through.
Handy Q&A
Can I use regular bread instead of Texas Toast?
Absolutely! While Texas toast adds a delightful thickness, any bread will work. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the custard mixture without falling apart.
What toppings go well with French toast?
In addition to maple syrup, consider fresh fruits like berries or bananas, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
Can I make the custard mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using it the next day.
What can I do with leftover French toast?
Leftover French toast can be transformed into a delicious breakfast sandwich, topped with eggs and cheese, or you can blend it into a smoothie for a unique twist!
More from the Kitchen
For more delightful recipes, check out these favorites:
Serve & Enjoy
Once you’ve plated your Homemade French Toast, it’s time to dig in! Serve it warm, perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top or a dollop of whipped cream, and enjoy the satisfying crunch followed by the soft, custardy center. This dish is not just breakfast; it’s an experience that brings joy to the table. So gather your loved ones, pour some coffee, and relish in the comforting flavors of homemade goodness.
There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing a meal together, and with this Homemade French Toast, you’re sure to create lasting memories around the breakfast table. Happy cooking!
Homemade French Toast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 eggs and whisk them together until they’re well combined. Add in the 1/2 cup of milk and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once it's hot, add a generous pat of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the bottom of the pan.
- Take a slice of Texas toast and dip it into the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides. Let any excess mixture drip off before placing it in the skillet.
- Place the soaked slice on the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown. Flip it over with a spatula and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.
- Repeat the process with the remaining slices of bread, adding more butter to the skillet as needed. Once all the French toast is cooked, serve immediately with a drizzle of maple syrup and an extra pat of butter on top.
Notes
- Let the French toast cool completely before storing.
- Use low-fat or almond milk instead of whole milk for a lighter version.
- Try a whole grain or gluten-free bread for added nutrients.
