How to Make French Toast for a Hearty Breakfast
Allergy Considerations
This classic French toast recipe contains gluten from the brioche and dairy from the milk and butter, making it unsuitable for those with gluten or dairy allergies. Additionally, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians and vegans due to the use of egg and dairy products.
If you’re looking for alternatives, such as gluten-free or vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore our recipe page for delicious options. Enjoy your French toast with fruit for a refreshing twist!
Ingredients List
Looking for the best French toast recipe? This version offers the perfect balance of flavor and texture, with simple ingredients you likely already have. Plus, if you’re after a healthy French toast option, you can easily modify the ingredients to suit your needs.
Note: While this is designed as a French toast recipe for 1, it’s easy to scale up depending on how many you’re cooking for.
Ingredients (per person):
- 3 slices brioche (ideally cut from a whole loaf, as pre-cut can often be too thin)
For the Batter:
- 1 egg
- 5 tbsp whole milk
- 1 tsp plain flour
- 1 tsp castor sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla
To Fry:
- 1 tbsp plain oil
- 2 tsp unsalted butter
To Serve:
- 6 strawberries, washed
- 3 tbsp crème fraiche or thick whole-fat Greek yoghurt
- 2 tbsp icing sugar (to sweeten and dust at the end)
Equipment List
To create the perfect protein French toast, you’ll need a few essential tools. This simple French toast recipe requires basic kitchen equipment that you likely already have on hand.
Equipment Needed:
- 1 whisk
- 1 mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons (teaspoon & tablespoon)
- 1 hob
- 1 frying pan
- 1 chopping board
- 1 knife
- Small ingredient pots
- 1 cooking spoon
- 1 turner
Recipe Steps
Step One: Whisk the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine all the batter ingredients: the egg, milk, flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla. Whisk them together until smooth. This mixture is key to achieving the right texture in your French toast. If you’re looking for an easy French toast recipe, this step sets a solid foundation for the dish.
Step Two: Preheat the Frying Pan
While your batter rests, preheat your frying pan on a medium setting. A properly heated pan ensures that the brioche gets that beautiful golden colour and crispy texture without burning. For those curious about how to make French toast easy, this step is crucial for even cooking.
Step Three: Prepare the Strawberries and Crème Fraiche
While the pan heats up, slice your strawberries and set them aside on a chopping board. Sweeten the crème fraiche or Greek yoghurt to taste and set it aside as well. These components serve as delightful French toast toppings that enhance the flavour and presentation of your dish.
Step Four: Coat the Brioche
Take the slices of brioche and gently place them into the batter. Turn them over carefully, folding and mixing until the batter coats all areas of each slice. Allow the brioche to soak in the mixture, which is essential for achieving a delicious, fluffy French toast. This recipe for French toast ensures that each bite is packed with flavor.
Step Five: Fry to Perfection
Once your pan is preheated, add a small amount of oil and butter. Fry the soaked brioche over medium heat for about 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step is crucial for that perfect texture. If you prefer a savory French toast option, consider adding herbs or cheese during this step.
Step Six: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your golden French toast nicely on a plate, topped with the fresh strawberries and sweetened crème fraiche or yoghurt. Dust with icing sugar for an elegant finish. If you’re making a French toast recipe for 2, simply double the ingredients and enjoy a delightful brunch with a friend!
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Plating Recommendations
- Layer for Height: Stack your fluffy French toast on the plate to create an eye-catching presentation. Use two or three slices for a beautiful tower effect that invites your guests to dig in.
- Add Color with Fruit: Enhance the visual appeal by adding vibrant French toast with fruit. Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas can bring a pop of colour to your dish, making it look as good as it tastes.
- Drizzle Elegantly: For an extra touch, consider drizzling maple syrup or a fruit compote over the French toast. This not only adds flavour but also creates an enticing sheen on the fluffy surface.
- Scatter Berries: When serving French toast with berries, scatter them artfully around the plate. This adds a rustic charm and complements the dish beautifully, inviting a taste of summer with every bite.
- Finish with Garnish: A dusting of icing sugar or a sprig of mint can elevate your plating. This simple touch enhances the overall presentation and adds a hint of sophistication to your breakfast.
Wrap Up Your Culinary Adventure
Now that you know how to make French toast crispy and delicious, it’s time to enjoy this delightful dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether you stick to the classic French toast recipe UK-style or experiment with toppings like fresh fruit, each bite is sure to impress.As you explore new recipes, it’s fun to try your hand at different culinary skills. If you’re looking for a nice way to get your culinary groove on, consider attending one of our cooking classes. Expert Michelin-star chefs will teach you how to cook like a pro, elevating your kitchen skills to the next level. Don’t wait—sign up now to start your delicious journey!
- How do I make French toast crispy?
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To achieve that perfect crispy exterior, start by ensuring your frying pan is adequately preheated before adding the bread. Use a mixture of butter and oil for frying, as the oil helps prevent burning while the butter adds flavour. Additionally, allowing the French toast to soak briefly in the egg mixture (but not too long) can help maintain a crispy texture without becoming soggy.
- Can I make a high-protein version of French toast?
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Absolutely! For a protein-packed option, you can substitute some of the traditional ingredients with protein-rich alternatives. Try using egg whites or adding a scoop of protein powder to the batter. This protein French toast will not only keep you full longer but also enhance the nutritional value of your breakfast.
- What are the key French toast ingredients?
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The basic French toast ingredients include bread (brioche is a popular choice), eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. You can also customize your recipe with various toppings, such as fresh fruit or maple syrup, to add extra flavour and nutrition.
- How can I make French toast easy and quick?
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To make French toast easy, prepare your ingredients and batter in advance. You can even soak the bread overnight for a quick breakfast option. Additionally, using a simple French toast recipe with minimal ingredients helps streamline the cooking process, allowing you to whip up this delicious dish in no time.
