French toast is one of those breakfast classics that can be tricky to get right. A common mistake in making French toast is ending up with slices that are either soggy, dry, or unevenly cooked, which can quickly take the fun out of breakfast. The good news is, mastering how to avoid these pitfalls and make perfect French toast is simpler than you might think.
In this guide, we’ll highlight every common mistake in making French toast, explain why they happen, and show you how to create slices that are golden, custardy, and absolutely irresistible every single time.
Table of Contents
The Most Common Mistake: Skipping Stale Bread
Let’s get straight to the point: using fresh bread is the #1 mistake people make when preparing French toast. Fresh bread soaks up too much liquid and turns mushy when cooked. Day-old or slightly stale bread, on the other hand, absorbs the custard just enough to make the inside creamy while keeping the outside golden and crisp.
If you don’t have stale bread on hand, no problem. You can dry fresh bread quickly by placing slices in a 200°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. This will give you the perfect texture for French toast.
Other Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
While stale bread is key, there are a few other mistakes that can trip you up. Let’s dive into them:
1. Rushing the Soaking Process
If you don’t let the bread soak in the custard long enough, it won’t absorb enough flavor or liquid. Each slice should sit in the custard for about 20-30 seconds per side. For thick slices like brioche or challah, you might need up to 60 seconds. Be patient—good French toast is worth the wait.
2. Using the Wrong Bread
Not all bread is created equal. Flimsy sandwich bread will fall apart, while dense whole-grain loaves can taste dry. The best options? Brioche, challah, or sourdough. These breads are sturdy, flavorful, and perfect for soaking up custard.
3. Overloading the Pan
Crowding the skillet or griddle causes uneven cooking. Each slice needs room to cook properly and develop that golden crust. Work in batches if necessary, and keep the cooked slices warm in a 200°F oven.
4. Cooking Over High Heat
High heat might seem like a shortcut, but it usually results in toast that’s burnt on the outside and raw in the middle. Medium-low heat is your best friend here. It ensures the custard cooks all the way through while giving the exterior a beautiful golden finish.
5. Ignoring the Ratio in the Custard
The balance of eggs and milk in your custard matters. Too many eggs can make the toast taste like an omelet, while too much milk results in soggy slices. Stick to about one egg for every ½ cup of milk for a creamy, well-balanced custard.
Looking to tweak your baking ingredients? Learn If You Can Use Kefir Instead of Buttermilk in Cake and achieve delicious results. Wondering about dessert nutrition? Find out How Many Calories Are in a Betty Crocker Brookie Mix before indulging in this sweet treat.
How to Avoid These Mistakes: Tips for Perfect French Toast
Want to get it right every time? Here are some foolproof tips to elevate your French toast game:
1. Choose the Right Bread
Opt for thick, sturdy slices like brioche or sourdough, and make sure they’re slightly stale. You can even experiment with cinnamon raisin bread for extra flavor.
2. Flavor Your Custard
Don’t forget to add vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to your custard. These little additions make a big difference in flavor. For extra indulgence, use heavy cream instead of milk.
3. Preheat Your Pan
A properly preheated skillet ensures even cooking. Use butter for a rich flavor, but add a splash of oil to prevent the butter from burning.
4. Soak and Drain
Let the bread soak thoroughly, but give it a quick shake to remove excess custard before placing it in the pan. This prevents pooling custard that can burn in the skillet.
5. Serve Immediately
French toast is best enjoyed fresh off the skillet. If you’re making a large batch, keep slices warm in the oven but serve them as soon as possible.
Toppings to Take It to the Next Level
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to have fun with toppings. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Classic: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and butter.
- Fruity: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, or a fruit compote.
- Decadent: Whipped cream, Nutella, or caramel drizzle.
- Nutty: Chopped almonds, pecans, or a sprinkle of granola.
- Savory: Crumbled bacon, a poached egg, or avocado slices.
French Toast Variations to Try
Looking to shake things up? These creative twists will keep things interesting:
1. Stuffed French Toast
Fill thick slices of bread with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves before dipping them in the custard. It’s like a little breakfast surprise.
2. Savory French Toast
Skip the sugar and cinnamon in the custard, and add herbs, salt, and pepper instead. Top with smoked salmon or ham for a brunch-worthy dish.
3. Overnight Casserole
Arrange slices of bread in a baking dish, pour custard over the top, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, bake until golden for a stress-free breakfast.
How to Make French Toast Ahead of Time Without Losing Quality
If you’re hosting a brunch or just want to save time in the morning, making French toast ahead of time is a lifesaver. The trick is to cook it fully, let the slices cool, and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. When reheating, use the oven at 300°F for 10-12 minutes to ensure the toast warms evenly without becoming soggy. For an extra-crispy finish, give each slice a quick pass through the toaster or skillet right before serving. This way, you get freshly made flavor without the last-minute rush.
The Role of Milk in French Toast Custard
Milk isn’t just there to thin out the custard—it’s also key to creating that creamy, rich interior. Whole milk works beautifully, but if you’re looking for extra indulgence, swap in heavy cream or half-and-half. Dairy-free? Don’t worry. Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk all work great as substitutes. Just keep in mind that plant-based milks can slightly alter the flavor, so choose one that complements the sweetness of the dish, like vanilla almond milk or creamy oat milk.
Pairing French Toast with Savory Sides
While French toast is traditionally a sweet dish, pairing it with savory sides can create a more balanced meal. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausage provides a salty counterpoint to the sweetness, while a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette makes for an unexpected but refreshing addition. You can even serve it alongside scrambled eggs or an omelet for a protein-packed breakfast that keeps you full and satisfied.
Can You Use Gluten-Free Bread for French Toast?
Absolutely! Gluten-free bread works surprisingly well for French toast, especially when it’s slightly stale or toasted before soaking. Look for gluten-free options that are thick-sliced and sturdy, like artisan loaves or brioche-style gluten-free bread. The process is the same: soak it in custard, cook it over medium heat, and enjoy. Gluten-free French toast can taste just as indulgent as the classic version.
Experimenting with Spices in Your Custard
If you’re ready to level up your French toast game, try adding spices beyond the usual cinnamon. A pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even ground ginger can add depth and warmth to your custard. For a seasonal twist, pumpkin spice works wonderfully in the fall, while a touch of ground clove can make your French toast feel festive during the holidays. Just remember, a little goes a long way—these spices are strong, so start with a pinch and adjust to taste.
FAQs About French Toast
Why Is My French Toast Soggy?
Soggy French toast is often the result of using fresh bread or oversoaking it in custard. Fresh bread absorbs too much liquid and can break down during cooking. To avoid this, always use day-old or slightly stale bread, which is firm enough to hold its structure. Limit the soaking time to no more than 30 seconds per side, ensuring the bread absorbs just the right amount of custard for a creamy interior without turning mushy.
What’s the Best Bread for French Toast?
For the best results, choose sturdy, flavorful bread like brioche, challah, or sourdough. Brioche and challah are slightly sweet and provide a rich, buttery flavor, while sourdough adds a tangy twist. These breads hold up to the custard well, ensuring the toast cooks evenly without falling apart.
Can I Make French Toast Ahead of Time?
Yes! French toast is great for meal prep. Cook the slices in advance, allow them to cool completely, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, place them in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or use a toaster for quick reheating.
Can I Freeze French Toast?
Absolutely. Cooked French toast freezes well, making it a convenient breakfast option. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster, oven, or air fryer for a hassle-free meal.
How Do I Make a Healthier Version?
For a healthier take, use whole-grain bread for added fiber and swap regular milk for almond or oat milk. Reduce or eliminate sugar in the custard, and use a small amount of nonstick spray instead of butter for frying. Top with fresh fruit instead of syrup for a naturally sweet finish.
Final Thoughts
Perfecting French Toast: A Simple but Rewarding Craft
Making perfect French toast isn’t rocket science, but avoiding a few common mistakes can take your breakfast from ordinary to extraordinary. It all starts with choosing the right bread—opt for sturdy options like brioche, challah, or sourdough to ensure a rich, flavorful base. Mastering the custard is equally important; get the egg-to-milk ratio right and don’t skimp on spices like cinnamon or a splash of vanilla. Finally, cook with care—use medium-low heat, butter for a golden crust, and give each slice the attention it deserves.
Whether you prefer to stick with the classic recipe or enjoy experimenting with creative toppings and fun variations, French toast remains a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that works for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert.
Got your own tried-and-true tips or tricks for making French toast? Share them in the comments below—I’d love to learn from your ideas and try them out. After all, there’s always room for a new twist on this timeless favorite!