Many people struggle with making breakfast for a large group of people, especially when you want something delicious and easy to make. One crowd-pleasing option is French toast. This classic breakfast dish is loved by many and can be easily made in large quantities. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making French toast for a crowd, providing you with a delicious and easy breakfast recipe that will leave everyone satisfied.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before you begin, you need to gather all the necessary ingredients. To make French toast for a crowd, you will need the following:
– 1 loaf of thick-sliced bread
– 12 large eggs
– 2 cups of milk
– 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Butter or cooking spray for greasing the pan
Preparing the Batter
The first step in making French toast for a crowd is preparing the batter. In a large bowl, crack open the eggs and whisk them until they are well beaten. Then, add the milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt to the bowl. Whisk all the ingredients together until they are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
Soaking the Bread Slices
Once the batter is ready, it’s time to soak the bread slices. Take a slice of bread and gently dip it into the batter, making sure both sides are coated. Allow the bread to soak for a few seconds, so it absorbs the flavors of the batter. Repeat this process with the remaining slices of bread, making sure not to overcrowd the bowl.
Choosing the Right Bread
When making French toast for a crowd, it is important to choose the right type of bread. Thick-sliced bread works best for French toast, as it has a sturdy texture that can withstand soaking without falling apart. Avoid using bread that is too thin or soft, as it may become soggy and lose its shape.
Using Stale Bread
If you have stale bread on hand, it is actually ideal for making French toast. Stale bread absorbs the batter better, resulting in a more flavorful and less soggy end product. If you don’t have stale bread, you can also leave fresh bread slices out overnight to dry them slightly.
Cooking the French Toast
After soaking the bread slices, it’s time to cook them. Preheat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Grease the skillet or griddle with butter or cooking spray to prevent the French toast from sticking. Once the surface is hot, place the bread slices onto the skillet or griddle, making sure not to overcrowd it.
Cooking Time
Cook the French toast for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip the slices using a spatula to ensure even cooking on both sides. If you find that the toast is browning too quickly, adjust the heat to medium-low. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your bread slices and the heat of your stove, so keep a close eye on them.
Keeping the Toast Warm
If you are making French toast for a large crowd, you may want to keep the cooked slices warm as you continue cooking the remaining batches. To do this, preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Place the cooked French toast on a baking sheet and keep them in the oven until you are ready to serve. This will help maintain their warmth and ensure everyone gets to enjoy a hot and delicious breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your French toast is ready, it’s time to serve it. French toast is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many different ways. Here are a few serving suggestions for your crowd-pleasing breakfast:
Classic Maple Syrup
Drizzle warm maple syrup over the French toast for a traditional and sweet touch. The combination of the crispy toast and sweet syrup is simply irresistible.
Fresh Fruits and Whipped Cream
Top your French toast with a variety of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. Finish it off with a dollop of whipped cream for a fruity and creamy delight.
Powdered Sugar and Cinnamon
Dust your French toast with powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a simple yet flavorful twist. The powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness, while the cinnamon adds warmth and depth.
Nutella and Sliced Almonds
For a decadent and indulgent option, spread Nutella on top of your French toast slices and sprinkle them with sliced almonds. The combination of the creamy chocolate spread and crunchy almonds is pure bliss.
Final Thoughts
Making French toast for a crowd doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right ingredients and a simple recipe, you can easily whip up a delicious and satisfying breakfast that will keep everyone happy. Whether you choose to serve it with maple syrup, fresh fruits, or Nutella, French toast is always a crowd-pleaser. So next time you have a group of hungry breakfast enthusiasts, remember this easy recipe and treat them to a mouthwatering breakfast they won’t forget.