French toast is a rescue mission for slightly stale bread — pain perdu, "lost bread." The keys are a real, sturdy loaf and a proper soak so the custard reaches the middle. Here’s how, and where to buy the parts.
By Vince Gonzalez · Published July 2026 · Sourcing verified 5 Jul 2026
Prep10 min
Cook12 min
Makes4 servings
CuisineFrench
Cost$$
Vegetarian
Contains dairy · eggs · gluten
Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
The Ingredients — and where to get them
Cook for4servings
Bread
A sturdy loaf, slightly stale — brioche, challah, or a good country bread. Thin fresh sandwich bread turns to mush.
A light hand — your arteries say thanks. · plan ahead — needs marinating, soaking, or resting time
EffortEasy
Cook it with
Stovetop
The Method
Make the custardWhisk eggs, milk, a little sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt in a wide dish.
Soak properlySoak each slice a good 20–30 seconds a side — long enough for the custard to reach the center, not just wet the surface.
Griddle in butterCook on a buttered griddle over medium heat until deep golden and set, flipping once. Low heat leaves the middle raw; high heat burns it.
Serve hotStraight to the plate with butter and warm real maple syrup.
Can you make French Toast in an air fryer? — Sometimes
You can, but a custard needs gentle, even heat and usually a water bath the basket can’t give, so the top tends to set before the middle. Bake it in ramekins that fit and watch closely, or use the oven for a foolproof set.
Can you freeze French Toast? — Not ideal
Not really — the cream, custard, or emulsion turns grainy or splits once thawed. This one is best kept fresh in the fridge.
Can you make French Toast ahead of time? — Partly
The components hold — prep the parts ahead and finish it close to serving for the best texture.
Is French Toast gluten-free? — Not as written
Not as written — it contains gluten. Make it gluten-free: swap in gluten-free versions of the wheat items (check the other labels too).
Is French Toast vegan? — Vegetarian, not vegan
It’s vegetarian but not vegan as written — it has dairy and egg. Make it vegan: use plant milk, oil, or a vegan cheese for the dairy, and a flax or aquafaba egg for the egg.
Community Notes
Cooked it? Changed something that worked? Leave a note for the next person — first-name basis, no account.
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