French toast, a beloved breakfast staple, has graced tables worldwide for centuries. Its simplicity—a slice of bread soaked in a mixture of eggs and milk, then fried to golden perfection—belies its rich history and the myriad of variations it has inspired across cultures. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of French toast, delve into its global adaptations, and share three delightful recipes to add to your breakfast rotation.
The Origins of French Toast
Despite its name, French toast isn’t exclusively French. The earliest known recipe dates back to ancient Rome, where it was called “pan dulcis.” Romans would soak bread in milk (and sometimes eggs) before frying it, a method documented in the 1st-century Roman cookbook “Apicius.”
The term “French toast” first appeared in England during the 17th century. One theory suggests that it was named after Joseph French, an Englishman who popularized the dish in 1724. However, this claim lacks substantial evidence. In France, the dish is known as “pain perdu,” meaning “lost bread,” highlighting its use of stale bread revitalized through cooking.
Global Variations of French Toast
French toast’s versatility has led to numerous adaptations worldwide:
-
Spain: Known as “torrijas,” this variation involves soaking bread in milk or wine, sweetening it with honey, and frying it. It’s traditionally enjoyed during Holy Week.
-
Germany: Called “Arme Ritter” or “poor knights,” German French toast is typically served with sugar and cinnamon.
-
United States: Often prepared with thick slices of bread like brioche or challah, it’s commonly topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruits.
These variations showcase the dish’s adaptability to different tastes and ingredients.
Mastering the Art of French Toast
Creating the perfect French toast involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some essential tips:
-
Choose the Right Bread: Opt for thick slices of bread such as brioche, challah, or sourdough. Using slightly stale bread helps it absorb the creamy egg without becoming soggy.
-
Prepare the Egg Mixture: A balanced mixture of eggs and milk or cream is crucial. Adding a touch of sugar, vanilla extract, or spices like cinnamon can enhance the flavour.
-
Soak and Cook Properly: Allow the bread to soak in the egg cream mixture until fully saturated but not soaked and falling apart. Cook on medium heat until each side is golden brown and the interior is cooked through.
By following these guidelines, you can achieve French toast that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with French Toast
Once you’ve mastered the art of making French toast, the real fun begins—choosing the perfect accompaniments to elevate your breakfast or brunch experience. French toast is like a blank canvas, ready to be paired with sweet, savoury, or indulgent toppings that suit your mood and taste. Here’s a guide to some of the best ways to serve French toast, from traditional favourites to creative combinations.
Sweet Classics
The timeless pairing of French toast with maple syrup or honey is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. The subtle sweetness of these syrups enhances the custardy richness of the toast without overpowering its delicate flavour. For a seasonal twist, try swapping out the syrup for flavoured honeys, such as lavender or orange blossom, to add an aromatic touch.
Fresh fruits like berries, bananas, and sliced apples are another favourite. They add a pop of natural sweetness, vibrant colour, and a refreshing balance to the dish. For something extra special, caramelised bananas or roasted peaches make for an indulgent yet simple topping.
Rich and Creamy Toppings
If you’re in the mood for something more luxurious, creamy toppings like whipped cream, mascarpone, or cream cheese blends can take your French toast to the next level. For Middle Eastern flair, try my quick ashta spread, a clotted cream-like delicacy that pairs beautifully with honey and nuts. Dollop it generously over your toast and finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a show-stopping breakfast.
Yogurt is another versatile option. Use plain or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative to cream, then add a drizzle of honey or a scattering of granola for texture.
Nuts and Seeds for Crunch
Texture matters, and adding a sprinkle of nuts or seeds can create a delightful contrast to the softness of French toast. Walnuts, almonds, pistachios, or pecans work beautifully. Toast them lightly to bring out their flavour, and pair them with sweet toppings like syrup or fruit. For a nut-free option, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds add a similar crunch.
Savoury Sides
For those who prefer a savoury twist, consider pairing French toast with accompaniments like labneh, olives, or a drizzle of olive oil. This works especially well with savoury versions like za’atar French toast. You can also serve it alongside eggs, sautéed spinach, or even smoked salmon for a hearty brunch option.
Spices and Finishing Touches
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of spices. A sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can enhance the flavour of sweet French toast, while za’atar, sumac, or smoked paprika can bring depth to savoury versions. A dusting of powdered sugar is a classic finishing touch for a sweet presentation.
With these pairings, French toast becomes more than just a breakfast—it’s an experience. Whether you’re going for traditional or adventurous toppings, the possibilities are endless, making French toast a dish that everyone can enjoy their way.
Three French Toast Recipes to Elevate Your Breakfast
To inspire your next breakfast, here are three distinct French toast recipes:
1. Classic French Toast
This traditional recipe combines eggs, cream, sugar, and vanilla essence to create a rich custard. Thick slices of white bread are soaked in the mixture, then fried until golden brown. Serve with maple syrup, honey, or fresh berries for a delightful morning treat.
2. Savoury Za’atar French Toast
For a savoury twist, this version omits sugar and vanilla, adding za’atar—a Middle Eastern spice blend—to each side of the soaked bread before frying. The result is a flavourful dish that pairs well with labneh, olives, or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad.
3. French Toast with Ashta Cream, Walnuts, and Honey
Indulge in a luxurious breakfast by topping classic French toast with ashta cream (a Middle Eastern clotted cream), chopped walnuts, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This combination offers a delightful balance of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors.
These recipes provide a range of options to suit different palates and occasions.
Incorporating French Toast into Your Breakfast Routine
French toast’s versatility makes it a perfect addition to your breakfast repertoire. Whether you prefer sweet or savoury flavours, there’s a French toast variation to match your taste. Pair it with sides like fresh fruit, yogurt, or eggs to create a balanced meal.
Can You Serve French Toast with Eggs?
Absolutely! French toast’s versatility allows it to pair wonderfully with eggs, depending on your preference and the meal you’re creating. While French toast is often enjoyed on its own or with sweet toppings like syrup and berries, adding eggs can transform it into a more balanced and satisfying breakfast.
Eggs bring a savoury and protein-packed element to the dish, making it more filling and suitable for those who want a hearty start to the day. The combination also offers a delightful contrast in texture—the soft, custardy French toast pairs beautifully with the creamy yolk of a poached or fried egg or the fluffy texture of scrambled eggs. For example, a sunny-side-up egg served alongside French toast with a drizzle of maple syrup creates a perfect sweet-and-savoury balance.
This pairing is also highly customisable. You can try scrambled eggs seasoned with fresh herbs, a poached egg sprinkled with za’atar, or even a soft-boiled egg with a touch of salt. Each option enhances the overall flavour and turns a classic French toast into a complete breakfast experience.
So, whether you’re craving something sweet, savoury, or a mix of both, consider adding eggs to your French toast plate—it’s a simple way to elevate your morning meal and keep everyone at the table satisfied.
And don’t stop there—your breakfast menu can go far beyond French toast! For more inspiration, try my Simple Homemade Pancakes. They’re quick to whip up, delightfully fluffy, and perfect for filling up hungry kids.
On those slower mornings, my Egg and Potato Mash (Batata Wu Bayd) offers a comforting and easy option that doesn’t require much effort. With these recipes and more, breakfast can be the highlight of your day, every day.
Why French Toast Deserves a Spot on Your Table
French toast is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a culinary tradition that has evolved across cultures and generations. Its simplicity and adaptability have cemented its place in kitchens worldwide. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or venture into creative variations, French toast offers endless possibilities to start your day deliciously.
So, gather your ingredients, try out the recipes shared above, and embark on a flavourful journey with this timeless dish.
