French toast is a classic breakfast dish that’s easy to make and always delicious. With a few simple tips, you can achieve a perfect balance of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect French toast:
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole milk or any non-dairy milk works)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 8 slices of bread (thick slices like challah, brioche, or Texas toast work best)
- Butter or oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Batter:
- Whisk Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Prepare the Bread:
- Choose Bread: Use thick slices of bread for the best texture. Stale or slightly dried-out bread works even better because it soaks up the batter without falling apart.
- Dip Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the batter, making sure both sides are coated. Let the bread soak for a few seconds to absorb the batter, but don’t let it become too soggy.
3. Cook the French Toast:
- Heat Pan: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil and let it melt and become hot but not smoking.
- Cook Bread: Place the soaked bread slices in the hot skillet. Cook for 2-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully to avoid breaking the slices.
4. Serve:
- Keep Warm: If cooking in batches, keep the finished French toast warm by placing it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 200°F (95°C).
- Add Toppings: Serve with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Tips for Perfect French Toast:
- Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the batter better and holds its shape during cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking and prevents the toast from becoming soggy.
- Temperature Control: Keep the heat medium to medium-low to ensure the French toast cooks through without burning on the outside.
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: A non-stick skillet or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet can help prevent sticking and ensure a golden crust.
Enjoy your perfect French toast with your favorite toppings and sides!