Easy French Toast Recipe (Caramelized)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This caramelized French toast recipe is quick and simple, yet it feels like a luxurious treat. The caramelization process adds a depth of flavor, making it far more indulgent than your typical French toast. Whether you're making it for breakfast, brunch, or even a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a handful of ingredients, it’s a perfect dish to whip up when you're craving something sweet and comforting without too much fuss.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 4 slices of thick bread (such as challah or brioche)

• 1 tablespoon butter

• 2 tablespoon brown sugar (for caramelizing)

• Pinch of salt

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

2. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the butter, allowing it to melt completely.

3. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides.

4. Place the coated bread slices onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

5. In a separate small pan, melt the brown sugar over low heat until it turns into a golden caramel. Drizzle this caramel over the French toast right before serving.

6. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, syrup, or whipped cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Caramelized French Toast: Use plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk) and a vegan butter substitute.

• Fruit Toppings: Add caramelized bananas, strawberries, or even apples for extra sweetness and texture.

• Spiced French Toast: Experiment with adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, spiced flavor.

• Savory Optionbacon.: Skip the sugar and cinnamon, and add savory toppings like scrambled eggs, cheese, or bacon.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. For extra crispiness, reheat on a griddle or in a toaster.

FAQs

How do I make French toast crispy?

To achieve a crispy French toast, make sure your skillet is hot and well-buttered. The key is to cook each side until it’s golden brown and crispy, which gives it the perfect texture.

Can I make French toast without eggs?

Yes! You can use a mixture of milk, flour, and cornstarch as an egg substitute to create a similar texture. Some people also use mashed bananas or silken tofu as a substitute for eggs.

What is the best bread for French toast?

Thick, sturdy bread such as brioche, challah, or Texas toast is ideal for French toast because it soaks up the egg mixture without becoming soggy.

Can I freeze French toast?

Yes! Cooked French toast can be frozen for up to a month. Place slices on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze, and then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven.

How do I prevent French toast from getting soggy?

Make sure not to soak the bread for too long, especially with softer breads. Dip just enough to coat it, and use a skillet that's hot enough to immediately start cooking the bread when it hits the pan.

How can I make my French toast sweeter?

For extra sweetness, you can drizzle maple syrup, caramel sauce, or even honey on top. You can also add more sugar to the egg mixture if you prefer a sweeter base.

Is French toast a healthy breakfast?

While French toast can be indulgent, you can make it healthier by using whole grain bread, reducing the sugar, and adding fresh fruit as a topping.

Can I make French toast ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the French toast ahead of time, and then simply reheat it in a skillet or oven when you're ready to serve.

How do I make caramel for French toast?

To make caramel, melt brown sugar over low heat in a small pan, stirring occasionally. Once it melts and turns golden brown, drizzle it over the French toast for that signature caramelized finish.

Can I add nuts to French toast?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds make a delicious crunchy topping. Add them after caramelizing or sprinkle them on top before serving.

Conclusion

This easy caramelized French toast recipe is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, adding a rich sweetness and crispy texture that everyone will love. Whether you're treating yourself or serving it to family and friends, it's sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy this indulgent breakfast or brunch dish with your favorite toppings and savor every bite!

Print

Easy French Toast Recipe (Caramelized)

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This easy caramelized French toast recipe takes the classic breakfast dish to the next level with a crispy, golden caramelized exterior and a soft, custardy interior. Perfect for lazy mornings or special occasions, this simple recipe features minimal ingredients and is quick to make. Add your favorite toppings like fresh berries, syrup, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

• Author: Janet
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 15-20 minutes
• Yield: 2-4 servings
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Pan-frying
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 large eggs

½ cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

4 slices of bread (preferably day-old)

1 tablespoon butter

¼ cup brown sugar

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

• In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon.

• Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.

• Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are coated.

• Place the coated bread onto the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.

• Once all the bread slices are cooked, sprinkle each with brown sugar and return to the skillet for a minute, allowing the sugar to melt and caramelize. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to create a crisp, caramelized exterior.

• Remove from heat and serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, use thick slices of bread like brioche or challah.

• Adjust the amount of brown sugar depending on your sweetness preference.

• To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs and milk with almond milk and flax eggs.