French Toast Waffles Recipe

If you’re looking for a breakfast that perfectly straddles the line between comforting classic and playful modern, French Toast Waffles are about to become your go-to weekend treat. Imagine all the custardy pleasure of French toast combined with the crispy, golden edges you crave from a waffle – it’s pure brunch magic. Whether you’re serving them to loved ones on a lazy Sunday, making breakfast-for-dinner, or just want to add some sparkle to your mornings, these French Toast Waffles always deliver both flavor and fun.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of French Toast Waffles is how a handful of kitchen staples comes together for something truly special. Every ingredient pulls its weight, lending just the right richness, aroma, or crunch to make each bite unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips to make each component shine:

• Thick-cut bread: Choose a sturdy loaf like brioche or Texas toast – thick slices absorb just enough custard without falling apart and bring a meltingly tender texture inside.
• Eggs: The key to that iconic custardy flavor and structure, eggs bind everything together as the starring ingredient in your soak.
• Whole milk: For a truly luscious custard, whole milk adds perfect richness without feeling too heavy.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash lifts the entire dish with warm, inviting sweetness and aroma.
• Ground cinnamon: This is your secret for cozy, aromatic flavor that makes the kitchen smell like a bakery.
• Salt: Don’t skip it! A pinch highlights the sweet and savory notes, making every flavor pop.
• Butter or nonstick spray: Prepping your waffle iron ensures that every waffle comes out crisp and golden (not stuck!) every time.
• Maple syrup and fresh fruit: These classic toppings bring tang, freshness, and just the right amount of indulgence to finish your French Toast Waffles.

How to Make French Toast Waffles

Step 1: Heat the Waffle Iron

Start things off by preheating your waffle iron – a hot iron is the secret to that sought-after crispy exterior. Give it a light greasing with either butter or nonstick spray so your French Toast Waffles release effortlessly (and develop picture-perfect edges). While it heats up, you can whip up the custard and get your bread ready.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a shallow bowl or pie plate, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Take your time here; a thoroughly whisked mixture means an even soak for each slice and beautifully balanced flavor. Don’t be afraid of a generous dash of cinnamon – the aroma is half the fun!

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Dip each thick bread slice into the prepared custard. Let each side linger for a few seconds so it drinks in just enough liquid, but not so long that it becomes floppy. If you’re using day-old bread, you’ll notice it soaks up the mixture perfectly, creating that signature creamy interior once cooked.

Step 4: Waffle It!

Gently transfer a custard-dipped slice onto your preheated waffle iron. Close the lid and let the magic happen – usually about 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your iron. When it’s golden brown and has those irresistible crispy ridges, it’s ready! Work in batches, repeating with remaining bread slices. The scent wafting through your kitchen at this point is pure heaven.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

As soon as your French Toast Waffles are crisp and golden, serve them hot off the iron. The topping possibilities are endless: a pat of melting butter, a drizzle of maple syrup, a snowfall of powdered sugar, or a heap of vibrant fresh berries. Any way you top them, you’re in for a truly special treat.

How to Serve French Toast Waffles

Garnishes

The magic of French Toast Waffles is how beautifully they pair with so many finishing touches. Maple syrup is the classic, but don’t stop there! Try a scattering of powdered sugar, a billow of whipped cream, or fresh berries for brightness. For those feeling adventurous, a drizzle of Nutella or a sprinkle of toasted nuts takes these waffles to decadent new heights.

Side Dishes

If you want to round out your breakfast, French Toast Waffles play well with all your favorite sides. Crisp bacon or savory breakfast sausage add a salty counterpoint, while a bowl of Greek yogurt with honey and granola brings some creamy, tangy balance. Even a simple fruit salad on the side is enough to turn your plate into a brunch-worthy spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For an extra-special brunch, try slicing your French Toast Waffles diagonally and stacking them for height. Or serve “waffle sticks” with an array of tiny cups for dipping maple syrup, berry compote, or chocolate sauce. For a crowd, build a beautiful board mixing waffles, toppings, and fresh fruit so everyone can create their own custom bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover French Toast Waffles, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, staying soft inside and ready to crisp back up at a moment’s notice. If you plan to enjoy leftovers, it’s best to skip syrup until just before eating.

Freezing

French Toast Waffles freeze beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or spontaneous breakfast cravings. Arrange cooled waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This keeps them from sticking together. They’ll taste fresh for about 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating

For best results, reheat French Toast Waffles in a toaster, toaster oven, or a hot oven until the outside is crisp and the interior is warmed through – usually just a few minutes. While a microwave works in a pinch, the oven retains that beloved contrast between crisp edges and tender middle.

FAQs

Can I use any bread for French Toast Waffles?

Thick, sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast works best, as it’s absorbent without falling apart. Softer sandwich bread can get too soggy and may not hold up well in the waffle iron.

Why does day-old bread work better?

Slightly stale bread is drier, which allows it to soak up the custard without getting mushy. This results in a crispy exterior and creamy center – exactly what makes French Toast Waffles irresistible!

Can I make French Toast Waffles dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the whole milk for your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond, oat, or soy), and use a dairy-free butter or just nonstick spray for greasing. The results are still golden and delicious.

What waffle iron works best?

Any standard waffle iron will work for this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cook time – depending on your model, you may need a minute more or less. Nonstick irons make removal easier, especially with the custard-soaked bread.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients to serve a larger group. Keep finished French Toast Waffles warm in a low oven (about 200°F) as you cook batches so everyone can enjoy them hot and crisp together.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something joyful about biting into French Toast Waffles that’s hard to beat. They’re nostalgic yet feel fresh, comforting while still playful, and endlessly customizable for any brunch mood. I truly hope you’ll give this recipe a try and discover just how much fun breakfast can be!

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