How to Make French Toast Really Good: Transform Your Breakfast Today

French toast is a beloved breakfast classic, but it can be so much more than just soggy bread dipped in egg. Mastering the art of making truly delicious French toast requires a few key techniques and a sprinkle of creativity. This guide will take you through the steps, from choosing the perfect bread to adding unexpected flavor twists, so you can finally say goodbye to bland, boring French toast and hello to a breakfast masterpiece.

The Bread is King: Choosing the Right Foundation

The foundation of any great French toast is the bread. While you can use almost any bread, some choices will yield better results than others.

• Stale Bread is Your Friend: French toast thrives on bread that’s slightly stale. This allows the bread to soak up the custard mixture without becoming overly soggy. If your bread is fresh, simply let it sit out on the counter for a few hours or overnight to dry out.
• Texture Matters: Choose a bread with good texture, like challah, brioche, or sourdough. These breads have a rich, buttery flavor and a slightly dense texture that holds up well to soaking.
• Slice it Right: Cut your bread into slices about ¾-inch thick. This ensures even soaking and a nice, fluffy texture.

The Custard: The Secret to Flavor and Texture

The custard is the heart and soul of French toast. It’s what gives the dish its creamy texture and rich flavor. Here’s how to make a perfect custard:

• Eggs are Key: Use large eggs for a richer, more flavorful custard.
• Milk or Cream: Both milk and cream work well. Whole milk will give you a classic French toast, while cream will add richness and a slightly decadent touch.
• Sugar and Spice: Add a touch of sweetness with granulated sugar and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. You can also add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
• Let it Rest: After whisking the custard together, let it sit for 10-15 minutes before soaking the bread. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard more evenly.

Soaking It Right: The Art of Absorption

The soaking process is crucial for achieving that perfect French toast texture.

• Don’t Over Soak: Soak each slice of bread in the custard for no more than 30 seconds per side. Over-soaking will lead to soggy bread that falls apart.
• Press Out Excess: After soaking, gently press the bread slices between paper towels to remove any excess custard. This will prevent them from becoming too soggy during cooking.

Cooking to Perfection: From Stovetop to Oven

You have two main options for cooking your French toast:

• Stovetop Sizzle: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add butter or oil, and cook the French toast slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
• Oven Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soaked bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Beyond the Basics: Elevating Your French Toast

Now that you have the fundamentals down, let’s explore some ways to elevate your French toast experience:

• Flavor Infusions: Add a touch of zest to your custard by incorporating lemon, orange, or grapefruit zest. You can also add a tablespoon of liqueur like Grand Marnier or amaretto for a boozy twist.
• Sweet and Savory: For a savory take on French toast, add a pinch of savory spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or onion powder to the custard. You can also top your French toast with savory toppings like bacon, sausage, or cheese.
• The Power of Toppings: Don’t underestimate the power of toppings! Fresh fruit, whipped cream, maple syrup, chocolate sauce, powdered sugar, nuts, and berries are all excellent choices.

French Toast Fiesta: A Celebration of Flavor

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to get creative! Here are some inspiring flavor combinations to get your taste buds tingling:

• Berry Bliss: Soak your bread in a custard infused with vanilla extract and a touch of lemon zest. Top with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, and a dollop of whipped cream.
• Chocolate Dream: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to your custard for a decadent chocolate flavor. Top with chocolate chips, chocolate sauce, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
• Caramel Crunch: Add a tablespoon of caramel sauce to your custard. Top with chopped pecans, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of sea salt.
• Banana Foster: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar and a teaspoon of cinnamon to your custard. Top with sliced bananas, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The Grand Finale: A French Toast Feast

Your French toast is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm with your favorite toppings and savor every delicious bite. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: What if my bread is too fresh?
A: If your bread is too fresh, let it sit out at room temperature for a few hours or overnight to dry out. You can also toast it lightly in the oven or under the broiler to achieve a slightly stale texture.

Q: Can I use other types of milk besides whole milk?
A: Absolutely! You can use almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or even soy milk. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Q: What if I don’t have any vanilla extract?
A: You can omit the vanilla extract, or you can substitute it with a teaspoon of vanilla sugar.

Q: How do I know if my French toast is cooked through?
A: The French toast should be golden brown on both sides and cooked through. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean, it’s cooked through.

Q: Can I make French toast ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make French toast ahead of time. Simply soak the bread in the custard and then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook it, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.