French toast is a delicious and popular breakfast dish that is loved by people all around the world. It is a simple yet satisfying meal that can be made with just a few ingredients. One of the key ingredients typically used in French toast is vanilla extract, which adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the dish. However, not everyone has vanilla extract on hand or may not enjoy its taste. If you’re looking for an easy French toast recipe without vanilla extract, you’re in luck! In this article, we will explore a simple and delicious French toast recipe that does not require vanilla extract.
Ingredients
To make this easy French toast recipe without vanilla extract, you will need the following ingredients:
For the French Toast:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup milk
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– ½ teaspoon cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Butter or oil for cooking
For Serving:
– Maple syrup
– Fresh fruits (such as berries, bananas, or sliced apples)
– Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this easy French toast recipe without vanilla extract:
Step 1:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined. This will be the custard mixture for your French toast.
Step 2:
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil to grease the surface.
Step 3:
Dip one slice of bread into the custard mixture, ensuring that both sides are well coated. Allow any excess custard to drip off before transferring it to the preheated skillet.
Step 4:
Cook the bread for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Repeat this process with the remaining slices of bread.
Step 5:
Once all the slices are cooked, transfer them to a serving plate and drizzle with maple syrup. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar for added sweetness if desired.
Step 6:
Garnish your French toast with fresh fruits like berries, banana slices, or even sliced apples for a refreshing twist.
Step 7:
Serve your easy French toast without vanilla extract while it’s still warm and enjoy a delightful breakfast that’s packed with flavor!
Variations
While this simple French toast recipe is delicious on its own, you can always experiment with different flavors and variations. Here are some ideas to spice up your French toast:
1. Caramelized Banana French Toast:
Instead of using fresh banana slices as a topping, try caramelizing them in a skillet with a small amount of butter and brown sugar. The sweet and gooey caramelized bananas will take your French toast to a whole new level of deliciousness.
2. Nutella and Strawberry French Toast:
Spread a layer of Nutella on the bread slices before dipping them into the custard mixture. Once cooked, top your French toast with fresh strawberry slices for a heavenly combination of flavors.
3. Savory French Toast:
If you prefer a savory twist to your French toast, skip the sugar and cinnamon in the custard mixture. Instead, add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of your favorite herbs like thyme or parsley. Serve your savory French toast with crispy bacon or avocado for a satisfying breakfast or brunch option.
Tips for Perfect French Toast
To ensure that your French toast turns out perfect every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Use Stale Bread:
Using stale bread rather than fresh bread allows the slices to soak up the custard mixture without becoming too soggy.
2. Let the Bread Soak:
Allow the bread slices to soak in the custard mixture for a few seconds on each side. This will ensure that each slice absorbs the flavors and becomes evenly cooked.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:
When cooking the French toast, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Leaving enough space between the slices will allow them to cook and brown properly.
Conclusion
Now that you have an easy French toast recipe without vanilla extract, you can whip up a delicious and satisfying breakfast in no time. Whether you prefer the classic version or want to experiment with different flavors and toppings, French toast is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and delightful breakfast treat that will surely please your taste buds!