French Toast

French Toast is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Preppy Kitchen on YouTube.

Prep: 7 min | Cook: 10 min | Total: 22 min

Cost: $3.68 total, $0.92 per serving

Ingredients

  • 0.75 cup Whole Milk (room temperature; can substitute half‑and‑half or add a splash of cream for extra richness)
  • 4 large Eggs (at room temperature for even mixing)
  • 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar (adds sweetness to the custard)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (provides warm spice flavor)
  • 2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (use pure vanilla for best flavor)
  • 2 tablespoon Unsalted Butter (for pan; keep a small piece melting in the pan before each batch)
  • 4 slices Thick‑Sliced White Bread (day‑old bread works best; can substitute brioche, challah, or sliced croissant for richer version)

Instructions

  1. Make the Custard

    Measure 3/4 cup whole milk into a mixing bowl, crack in 4 eggs, add 1/4 cup sugar, 1/2 tsp cinnamon and 2 tsp vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Preheat the Pan

    Place a large skillet over medium‑high heat and add a small dot of butter. Allow the butter to melt and sizzle before adding any bread.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  3. Soak the Bread

    One slice at a time, dip the bread into the custard, pressing gently for a few seconds so it absorbs but does not become waterlogged. Let excess drip off before placing in the pan.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Cook First Side

    Lay the soaked slice in the hot buttered skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, then flip when the edges start to set and the bottom is golden brown.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  5. Cook Second Side

    Flip the toast and cook the other side until golden brown, another 1–2 minutes. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: medium‑high heat

  6. Serve

    Transfer the finished French toast to a plate or platter, add a pat of butter if desired, and serve immediately with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or your favorite toppings.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
12g
Carbohydrates
35g
Fat
18g
Fiber
1g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Eggs, Dairy, Wheat (gluten)

Last updated: April 6, 2026

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French Toast

Recipe by Preppy Kitchen

A quick, decadent breakfast French toast made with a simple custard of milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon and vanilla. Perfectly golden on the outside and fluffy inside, ready in under 25 minutes.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
6m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
27m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.68
Total cost
$0.92
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Whisk the custard until smooth and fully combined
  • Soak each slice just enough to absorb custard without becoming soggy
  • Cook each side to a deep golden brown without burning

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot skillet and melted butter with care to avoid burns
  • Ensure the eggs are fully cooked; the toast should be golden and firm before serving

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of French toast in American breakfast cuisine?

A

French toast, known as "pain perdu" in France, became a staple in American breakfast tables during the 19th century as a way to use stale bread. It evolved into a sweet, comforting morning dish often served with maple syrup and fruit, embodying home‑cooked nostalgia.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of French toast in the United States?

A

In the Southern U.S., French toast is often flavored with cinnamon and served with powdered sugar. In New England, it may be topped with berry compote, while in the Midwest, a custard made with cream and vanilla is common, creating a richer texture.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is French toast traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

French toast is popular for weekend brunches, holiday breakfasts such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, and special family gatherings because it feels indulgent yet simple to prepare.

cultural
Q

What authentic traditional ingredients are used in classic American French toast versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Classic American French toast uses eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and sturdy white or brioche bread. Substitutes include half‑and‑half or cream for richer custard, almond milk for dairy‑free versions, and gluten‑free bread for those with wheat sensitivities.

cultural
Q

What other American breakfast dishes pair well with French toast?

A

French toast pairs nicely with crispy bacon, breakfast sausages, fresh fruit salads, and a side of scrambled eggs, creating a balanced sweet‑savory brunch plate.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making French toast?

A

Common errors include over‑soaking the bread, using too low heat which makes the toast soggy, and not allowing the butter to fully melt before adding the bread, which can cause sticking and uneven browning.

technical
Q

Why does this French toast recipe use medium‑high heat instead of low heat?

A

Medium‑high heat creates a quick sear that caramelizes the sugars in the custard, giving the toast a deep golden crust while the interior sets fast enough to stay fluffy without becoming soggy.

technical
Q

Can I make French toast ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can prepare the custard up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. Cooked French toast can be stored in the fridge for 2 days or frozen for up to a month; reheat in a toaster or oven to restore crispness.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Preppy Kitchen specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Preppy Kitchen, hosted by John Kanell, specializes in approachable, family‑friendly recipes that blend classic comfort food with modern twists, focusing on clear step‑by‑step tutorials for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Preppy Kitchen's approach to American breakfast cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Preppy Kitchen emphasizes quick, low‑effort techniques using pantry staples, while providing detailed tips on ingredient swaps and presentation, making everyday breakfast dishes feel elevated without requiring professional equipment.

channel

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