Cinnamon Vanilla French Toast Delight

Lost Bread (French Toast) Recipe

When I was a little girl, my mama always made this for me for breakfast. I loved it and fixed it for my children who also loved it. It always smelled so good frying that I could hardly wait to get it on my plate. This traditional breakfast dish, often referred to as Lost Bread or Pain Perdu, is a beloved treat that transforms stale bread into a delightful, fragrant meal perfect for starting the day. This recipe is a nostalgic trip back to the comforting mornings of childhood and is sure to become a cherished staple in your household.

Recipe Category:

Breads

Keywords:

Breakfast
Creole
Healthy
Kid Friendly
< 30 Mins
Stove Top
Easy

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
3 eggs
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Sliced bread (preferably slightly stale)
Oil for frying (such as vegetable oil or butter)

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 234.3
Fat: 4.8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 133.7mg
Sodium: 66.2mg
Carbohydrates: 43.1g
Fiber: 0.4g
Sugar: 40.3g
Protein: 5.4g

Preparation:

Cook Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Instructions:

Combine Dry Ingredients:
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- In a medium-sized bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon until they are thoroughly combined. This aromatic blend will serve as the seasoning for your French toast, infusing it with a sweet and spicy warmth that is utterly irresistible.
Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate larger bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until the yolks and whites are fully integrated. Add the milk and vanilla extract to the eggs, mixing well to create a smooth, creamy base. This mixture is essential for soaking the bread, ensuring it absorbs the flavors and achieves a perfect custard-like consistency.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry sugar and cinnamon mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Ensure the mixture is well-blended, creating a uniform batter that will cling beautifully to each slice of bread.
Soak the Bread:
- Dip each slice of bread into the batter one at a time, turning it to ensure it is thoroughly soaked on all sides. The bread should be fully saturated but not falling apart. This step is crucial for achieving the soft, creamy interior characteristic of excellent French toast.
Fry the Bread:
- Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the soaked bread slices into the pan. Fry the bread until it is golden brown on one side, then flip it to brown the other side. The exterior should be crisp and caramelized, while the inside remains tender and moist.
Drain Excess Oil:
- After frying, place the cooked bread slices on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This helps to keep the French toast from becoming too greasy and ensures a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Repeat:
- Continue soaking and frying the remaining bread slices until all of the batter is used. Depending on the size of your family or the number of servings you need, you may wish to prepare more of the batter at the outset.
Adjust Sweetness:
- Taste a piece of the finished French toast. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can sprinkle additional sugar on top before serving, though this dish is delightful as is, with no need for extra toppings at the table.

Serving Suggestions:

Lost Bread is a versatile dish that can be served in numerous ways. While it is delicious on its own, here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your breakfast experience:

Traditional Toppings: Although this recipe doesn’t need anything added at the table, you can serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Fruit Compote: Complement the rich, sweet flavors with a homemade fruit compote. Fresh berries, sautéed apples, or caramelized bananas make excellent accompaniments.
Savory Twist: For a savory variation, consider serving the French toast with a side of crispy bacon or sausage. The salty contrast pairs wonderfully with the sweet, spiced bread.
Nut Butter: Spread a thin layer of almond or peanut butter on top of each slice for added richness and protein.

Cooking Tips:

Bread Selection: For the best results, use slightly stale bread. Day-old bread absorbs the batter better and holds its shape during frying. French bread, brioche, or challah are excellent choices.
Even Cooking: Ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the bread. If the oil is too cool, the bread will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the exterior will burn before the inside is cooked.
Custard Consistency: If you find that your batter is too thin, add a little more sugar or an additional egg to thicken it. Conversely, if it’s too thick, a splash more milk can help achieve the right consistency.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices in the batter. Nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of clove can add a unique twist to the traditional recipe.
Batch Cooking: If you’re cooking for a crowd, keep the cooked French toast warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you finish frying the rest. This ensures that everyone enjoys their meal hot and fresh.

Final Thoughts:

Lost Bread, or Pain Perdu, is a delightful, easy-to-make breakfast that brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla in a way that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. With its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior, this French toast recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend brunch or a simple weekday breakfast, Lost Bread offers a perfect balance of ease and indulgence. Enjoy the aromatic sizzle in the pan and the delightful taste that has been cherished across generations.