Classic French Toast Recipe

A Timeless Breakfast Favorite

Classic French Toast Recipe, or pain perdu (“lost bread”), is one of the most loved breakfast dishes around the world. It began as a way to save leftover bread. Instead of throwing stale bread away, people dipped it in eggs and milk, then fried it until golden. The result was filling, delicious, and comforting. Over time, this thrifty meal turned into a brunch classic served in cafés and home kitchens alike.

The recipe is simple. Thick bread slices — brioche, challah, or French baguette — work best. Dip them into a mixture of eggs, milk or cream, sugar, and a hint of vanilla or cinnamon. Then fry the slices in butter until they are crisp and golden outside with a soft, custardy center. The contrast in textures makes each bite satisfying.

French toast is versatile. You can keep it simple with butter and maple syrup. Or, you can make it fancy with powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream. Some cooks stuff it with Nutella, cream cheese, or jam for an indulgent twist. Savory versions also exist. In those, the sugar is reduced and toppings like cheese, ham, or herbs take the stage.

This dish carries comfort and nostalgia. For many, it recalls slow weekend mornings or family breakfasts. Different cultures have their own take. In Spain, torrijas often use honey or wine. While in Hong Kong, French toast is deep-fried and stuffed with peanut butter. And in New Orleans, pain perdu is topped with powdered sugar and praline sauce for a rich Southern flavor.

French toast stays popular because it’s affordable and easy. The ingredients — bread, eggs, milk, sugar, butter — are basic pantry staples. It takes less than 20 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for both busy mornings and relaxed brunches.

In the end, classic French toast is more than just a breakfast. It’s a tradition that mixes resourcefulness, comfort, and creativity. It can be simple or luxurious, humble or decadent. Whether eaten plain with syrup or dressed up with fruit and cream, French toast proves that even “lost bread” can become something extraordinary.

Classic French Toast Recipe

5 from 1 vote

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Servings: 2 servings

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 slices bread white or whole wheat
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
• Butter or cooking oil for the pan
• Maple syrup powdered sugar, or your favorite toppings

Method

 

Prepare the Batter:

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon (if using). Mix until well combined.

Soak the Bread:

1. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Allow excess to drip off.

Preheat the Pan:

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or cooking oil to coat the surface.

Cook the French Toast:

1. Place the soaked bread slices on the hot pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve Warm:

1. Once the French toast is cooked, transfer it to a plate.

Toppings:

1. Serve the French toast warm with your favorite toppings. Popular choices include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Optional: Keep Warm in the Oven:

1. If you’re making multiple servings, you can keep the cooked French toast warm by placing it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven (around 200°F or 95°C).

Enjoy:

1. Serve immediately and enjoy your classic French toast!

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Egr2_NsI7P4

Notes

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding nutmeg, a pinch of salt, or using different types of bread. French toast is versatile, so you can adapt it to suit your taste preferences.