French toast

Ingredients

• 1egg
• 1 glass (about 200 ml)milk
• to tastesugar
• to tastecinnamon
• to tastevanilla
• to tastebutter
• 4 slicesbread

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the custard

   Beat the egg in a bowl, then add the milk and continue whisking. Add sugar to taste and, if you like, a pinch of cinnamon or a little vanilla; stir to combine.

2. 2

   Warm the pan

   Heat a thin layer of butter in a frying pan over a moderate heat.

3. 3

   Soak the bread

   Place the bread slices in the egg-and-milk mixture for a few seconds on each side, so they are coated and soaked through. Lift them out carefully.

4. 4

   Cook until golden

   Transfer the slices to the pan and cook gently until browned, then turn them over and brown the other side. Keep an eye on them, as they toast quickly.

What is French toast?

French toast is bread soaked in an egg-and-milk mixture and fried until golden. Similar dishes appear in many places, including Spain’s torrijas; despite its name, French toast’s precise origins are uncertain.

This version keeps the mixture simple, with optional sugar, cinnamon and vanilla. Butter gives the slices a gently browned surface, while the toppings can take them in a sweet or savoury direction.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 160 calories, 6g protein, 20g carbs, 6g fat.

The bread supplies most of the carbohydrate, while the egg and milk contribute protein and the butter adds fat. Pair a serving with fresh fruit for a fresh contrast, or add yoghurt if you would like something more substantial alongside it.

Choosing the bread

Bread slices: The recipe calls for four slices but does not specify a type. Choose slices sturdy enough to soak up the mixture without falling apart.

Getting the soak right

Quick dip: Leave each slice in the mixture for a few seconds on each side, as directed. Handle it carefully when lifting it out so it stays intact.

Even coating: Turn the slices to coat both sides. If the bread is very soft, keep the soak brief.

Cooking to a golden finish

Moderate heat: Warm a thin layer of butter in the pan, then cook the soaked bread gently. This gives the centre time to heat through while the outside browns.

Watch the colour: The slices toast quickly, so stay nearby and turn them when the first side is golden.

Sweet or savoury toppings

Sweet finish: Try fruit, honey, syrup, jam, chocolate or whipped cream. Add toppings after cooking so the toast stays crisp on the outside.

Savoury finish: Pair the cooked slices with ham or melting cheese. For a savoury version, leave the sugar out of the egg mixture.

When to serve it

Breakfast and brunch: Serve the toast hot, with fresh fruit or a topping of your choice. The same basic recipe also makes a satisfying afternoon snack.

Recipe notes & tips

• Whisk the egg thoroughly into the milk before adding the bread.
• Add sugar, cinnamon and vanilla gradually so you can adjust the sweetness to taste.
• Use only a thin layer of butter in the pan, as directed.
• Lift soaked slices carefully to help them keep their shape.
• Stay by the pan because the bread can brown quickly.
• Serve the toast soon after cooking for the best texture.

Variations

• Fresh fruit: Add sliced strawberries, banana or berries when serving.
• Honey or syrup: Drizzle a little over the toast just before eating.
• Chocolate: Serve with chocolate spread or a chocolate topping.
• Savoury cheese: Omit the sugar and add melting cheese while the toast is still in the pan.
• Ham and cheese: Leave out the sugar and serve with ham and melted cheese.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Soaking too long: Very soft bread can fall apart, so dip each side for only a few seconds.
• Rough handling: Lift the soaked bread carefully to keep the slices intact.
• Too much heat: The outside can brown before the toast is ready, so cook over moderate heat.
• Walking away from the pan: French toast browns quickly, so watch it and turn it promptly.
• Adding sugar to a savoury version: Leave it out if you plan to serve the toast with ham or cheese.

How to store

French toast is best eaten freshly cooked. If needed, refrigerate leftovers in a covered container for up to 2 days and reheat in a frying pan over a gentle heat until warmed through.

Frequently asked questions