
French toast often gets a bad rap for being an unhealthy breakfast choice (because it usually is), but it doesn’t have to be! In fact, French toast is incredibly versatile and can be made into a nutrient-packed, balanced meal with just a few smart tweaks. It’s a perfect option for beginner chefs as it’s easy to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and basic cooking skills, making it a perfect option for breakfast, brunch, or even a fast dinner. It’s also a great way to use up leftover bread that might otherwise go to waste (perfect for your not-so-perfect sourdough attempts). Plus, the eggs in the batter provide a boost of protein, supporting muscle repair and helping you stay full and satisfied, and it’s a great way to get some extra protein into kids (or adults tbh). And let’s not forget the endless topping possibilities 😋—whether you prefer sweet or savoury, French toast can be customized to fit your taste and nutritional needs.
Ways to Make French Toast Healthier:
- Good Quality Bread: Opt for bread like whole grain, gluten-free or sourdough, which offer more fibre and nutrients compared to white bread. You can even experiment with low carbohydrate options.
- Fun Toppings: Incorporate natural, nutrient-rich toppings such as nuts for added protein and healthy fats, or fruit like berries for antioxidants and vitamins.
- Real Maple Syrup or Sugar-Free Alternatives: Choose real maple syrup for its rich flavour and health benefits, or go sugar-free for a lower calorie option. We love this one!
Optional Topping Suggestions:
- -Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- -Fruit (sliced bananas, apples, berries)
- -Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for an extra protein boost
- -A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for flavour without extra sugar
- -Real whipped cream
- -Peanut or almond butter (or Sunbutter for a nut-free option)
1. Super Simple French Toast
Ingredients:
- 2 Eggs
- 2 slices of Bread
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
Directions:
- Whisk the eggs, and cinnamon if using, in a shallow bowl. Dip the bread into the mixture, coating both sides evenly.
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Cook the bread slices for about two minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Repeat until all bread is cooked.
2. Chocolate French ToaST
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp Butter (divided)
- 2 Eggs (whisked)
- 3/4 cup Milk or milk substitute
- 1 tsp Cacao Powder
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 4 slices of Bread
- 3 tbsps Maple Syrup
- 1/2 oz Dark Chocolate (shaved)
Directions:
- Preheat a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Lightly grease the pan with half of the butter.
- Mix the eggs, milk or milk substitute, cacao powder, and vanilla extract in a large, wide bowl. Soak each slice of bread in the egg mixture, ensuring good coverage.
- Place the bread in the pan and cook for three to four minutes on each side until browned. Work in batches if necessary.
- Serve with the remaining butter, maple syrup, and dark chocolate shavings.
3. AIR FRYER FRENCH TOAST STICKS
Ingredients:
- 2 Eggs
- 1/3 cup Milk or milk substitute
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 tsp Cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp Sea Salt
- 4 slices Bread (sliced into 1 1/2-inch thick sticks)
- Avocado Oil Spray
- 1/4 cup Maple Syrup
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 375ºF (190ºC).
- Whisk the eggs in a medium-sized bowl. Add the milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt and mix to combine.
- Dip each stick of bread into the wet mixture, coating all sides evenly. Lightly spray the air fryer basket and then place each stick in the basket, spacing them out slightly. Spray lightly once more.
- Bake for six to eight minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove and serve with maple syrup. Enjoy!
4. FRENCH TOAST MUG CAKE
Ingredients:
- 2 Eggs
- 1/4 cup Milk or milk substitute
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 tbsp Maple Syrup
- 4 slices Bread (cut into small pieces)
Directions:
- In a mug, whisk the egg and milk together. Stir in the cinnamon and maple syrup.
- Add the bread to the mug and stir to combine with the egg mixture. If the bread isn’t saturated with the egg mixture, add a splash more milk. Press the bread into an even layer in the bottom of the mug and let it rest for about five minutes so the bread can absorb the egg mixture.
- Microwave for two minutes or until the bread is firm to the touch and just moist on top. Let the mug cake cool slightly then transfer to a plate or a bowl. Enjoy!
5. VEGAN WILD BLUEBERRY FRENCH TOAST
Ingredients:
- 1 Banana (ripe)
- 1 1/2 tbsps Chia Seeds
- 3/4 cup Milk or milk substitute
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tbsps Coconut Oil
- 6 slices Bread
- 1 cup Frozen Blueberries
- 1 1/2 tbsps Maple Syrup
Directions:
- In a large, shallow bowl, mash the banana. Add the chia seeds, milk or milk substitute, and cinnamon. Let stand for about 5 minutes. During this time, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and grease with coconut oil.
- Dip the bread slices into the banana mixture, making sure each side is coated, then immediately transfer them to the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes per side, flipping carefully. Continue until all pieces of French toast are cooked.
- While the French toast is cooking, add the frozen blueberries to a small saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until the berries become soft and the juices are released.
- Divide the French toast between plates and top with blueberries and maple syrup. Enjoy!