Basic French Toast

Basic French toast transforms simple ingredients into a golden, custardy breakfast that’s both comforting and elegant. With the right technique, this classic dish delivers crispy edges, a tender center, and rich vanilla-cinnamon flavor that makes any morning feel special. The key lies in proper custard preparation and cooking temperature control.

How to Make Basic French Toast

Main Ingredients

• 8 thick slices bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast)
• 4 large eggs
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Maple syrup for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Custard:

1. Whisk eggs thoroughly in a shallow dish until no streaks remain
2. Add milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt
3. Whisk until sugar completely dissolves and mixture is smooth
4. Let custard rest while preparing other ingredients

Bread Preparation:

1. Choose day-old bread for best absorption
2. Cut into ¾-inch thick slices if using a whole loaf
3. Arrange bread slices in single layer on baking sheet
4. If using fresh bread, lightly toast to remove excess moisture

Soaking Process:

1. Dip each bread slice into custard, turning to coat both sides
2. Let soak 20-30 seconds per side for optimal absorption
3. Don’t oversoak – bread should be saturated but not falling apart
4. Lift carefully with spatula to avoid breaking

Cooking Technique:

1. Heat large skillet or griddle over medium heat
2. Add 1 tablespoon butter and let melt completely
3. When butter stops foaming, add soaked bread slices
4. Cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown
5. Adjust heat if browning too quickly or slowly
6. Add more butter between batches as needed

Final Assembly:

1. Transfer cooked French toast to serving plates
2. Dust lightly with powdered sugar
3. Serve immediately with warm maple syrup
4. Add fresh berries or whipped cream if desired

Storage and Reheating

Leftover French toast keeps 2-3 days refrigerated and reheats well in toasters or ovens. Avoid microwave reheating, which creates uneven texture.

Reheating Methods: Toast lightly to restore crispness, or warm in 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Frozen French toast can go directly into toaster.

Batch Cooking: Make large batches for meal prep. Cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

Conclusion

Basic French toast exemplifies how simple techniques and quality ingredients create extraordinary results. While the process is straightforward, attention to details like bread selection, custard ratios, and cooking temperature makes the difference between mediocre and memorable French toast. Master these fundamentals, and you’ll have a reliable recipe that turns any morning into a special occasion, whether feeding family or entertaining guests.