Cinnamon French Toast Recipe

Bread: Preferably stale, as it absorbs the egg mixture better.

Eggs: Acts as the binding agent and gives the French toast its rich texture.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture.

Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy flavor.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic note.

Butter: Used for cooking the French toast to a golden brown.

When preparing French toast, using stale bread is crucial as it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy. Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the butter to achieve an even, golden-brown crust. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture.

• stale bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and slightly sweet, making it an excellent choice for French toast.

• stale bread - Substitute with challah: Challah is soft and absorbs the egg mixture well, resulting in a fluffy texture.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This is a great vegan alternative.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that works well in the recipe.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a slight tropical flavor and is also dairy-free.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, slightly sweet flavor similar to cinnamon.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon and other spices, adding a complex flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a nutty, sweet flavor that complements the French toast.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds sweetness and a unique flavor profile.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free option that adds a slight coconut flavor.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a plant-based alternative that works well for cooking.

• Allow the Cinnamon French Toast to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from making the toast soggy.
• Place the cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step ensures they freeze individually and don't stick together.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and freeze the slices for about 1-2 hours, or until they are firm.
• Once frozen, stack the slices and place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Be sure to label the bag with the date.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen slices on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the slices in a toaster or toaster oven until they are warm and golden brown.
• For a quicker option, microwave the frozen slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes, but note that this method may result in a softer texture.
• Store any leftover French toast in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat using any of the methods mentioned above.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the leftover cinnamon French toast on a baking sheet. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

• For a quick fix, use a microwave. Place the French toast on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on high for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway to ensure even warming.

• If you prefer a crispy texture, use a toaster oven. Set it to medium heat and toast the French toast for 3-5 minutes until it reaches your desired crispiness.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil. Place the French toast in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until warmed through and slightly crispy.

• To reheat in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through for even heating.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.

• Whisk: A utensil used to blend the egg mixture smoothly.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the French toast slices.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the bread slices to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the cinnamon and vanilla extract precisely.

• Butter knife: Used to spread the butter on the skillet.

• Plate: Used to serve the cooked French toast.

• Tongs: Optional tool to handle the hot French toast slices safely.

Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, saving time on soaking.

Pre-mix ingredients: Whisk eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla extract the night before to save time in the morning.

Heat the skillet first: Preheat your skillet while preparing the bread to reduce cooking time.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple slices of French toast at once if your skillet is large enough.

Use non-stick spray: Substitute butter with non-stick spray to save time on melting and spreading.