Is there anything more comforting than a stack of perfectly golden French toast on a lazy weekend morning? While the great bread debate rages on (I’m team crusty French bread, sliced thick!), this recipe is the real secret to breakfast perfection. We’re elevating the classic with a bright, zesty kick of orange and a warm whisper of cinnamon, creating a truly unforgettable dish that’s begging to be drenched in warm maple syrup.
Ingredients
• SERVES 4
• 5 large eggs
• 1/3 cup / 80 ml milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/3 cup / 67 g granulated sugar
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 1/2 tsp / 1 g ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp / 30 ml brandy, or 1 1/2 tsp / 7.5 ml vanilla extract
• 12 to 16 slices (about 3/4-inch / 2 cm thick) day-old French bread or challah
• Butter or neutral oil, for frying
• Warm pure maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
1. In a large, shallow dish (a pie plate is perfect!), whisk the eggs until well-beaten. Stir in the milk, sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and brandy or vanilla extract until the custard is fully combined.2. Place a few slices of bread into the custard mixture, allowing them to soak for 3-5 minutes per side for thick-cut bread, or 1-2 minutes for standard slices. You want the bread to be saturated but not falling apart.3. Melt a pat of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the butter is sizzling, carefully place the soaked bread slices in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it.4. Fry for 2-4 minutes per side, until each slice is beautifully golden brown and cooked through.5. Serve immediately, topped with an extra pat of butter and a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup. To keep batches warm while you cook, place them on a wire rack in an oven preheated to 200°F / 95°C.
Nutritional Information
• Serving Size: 3 slices
• Calories: 410 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 13g
• (Note: Estimates may vary based on bread and toppings used.)
Pro Tips
• for Perfect French Toast
• Use day-old or slightly stale bread. It’s sturdier and soaks up the custard without becoming soggy.
• Cook over medium heat. If the pan is too hot, the outside will burn before the custardy center has a chance to cook through.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches ensures each slice gets crispy and evenly golden brown.
• For a delicious vegan version, use a plant-based milk, replace the eggs with a liquid egg replacer, and use vegan butter for frying.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this French toast vegan
A: Yes, this recipe is easily adapted for a vegan diet. Use your favorite plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Replace the 5 large eggs with about 1 1/4 cups of a liquid vegan egg replacer. Finally, use vegan butter or a neutral oil for frying to create a delicious plant-based breakfast.
Q: Is this vegetarian French toast a good source of protein
A: Absolutely. A single serving of this French toast provides approximately 15g of protein, primarily from the eggs and milk. This makes it a satisfying and protein-rich vegetarian breakfast to start your day. Using a protein-rich bread like challah can also boost the protein content.
Q: How can I make this French toast dairy-free
A: To make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the dairy milk with an equal amount of your preferred plant-based milk, such as oat, almond, or soy milk. Also, be sure to use a neutral oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for frying the slices.
Q: Can I store and reheat leftover vegetarian French toast
A: Yes, you can store leftover French toast. Allow the slices to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, use a toaster, toaster oven, or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crispy.
