White bread: Is there anything more comforting than the smell of it baking in your oven? I think not! Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy slice, slathered with butter that melts instantly. This isn’t just any bread; it’s a nostalgic journey back to simpler times, to childhood lunches and cozy family dinners.

While artisanal loaves and sourdoughs have their place, there’s an undeniable charm to the classic white bread. Its history is deeply intertwined with the evolution of milling and baking techniques, becoming a staple in households across the globe. For generations, it has been a symbol of nourishment and a blank canvas for countless culinary creations.

But why do we still crave it? Beyond the nostalgia, it’s the soft, pillowy texture and subtly sweet flavor that makes it so irresistible. It’s incredibly versatile, perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own. Plus, with this easy-to-follow recipe, you can bake a loaf that’s far superior to anything you’ll find in the store. Get ready to experience the simple joy of homemade bread!

Ingredients:

8 slices of white bread, preferably day-old
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream

Preparing the Custard and Bread:

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This is your custard base, and it’s what will give the French toast its rich and creamy texture. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved.
Now, let’s prepare the bread. You can use the bread slices as they are, or you can cut them in half diagonally to create triangles. I personally prefer the triangles because they’re easier to handle and cook evenly. If your bread is very fresh, you might want to let it sit out for an hour or so to dry out slightly. This will help it absorb the custard better without becoming soggy.
Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Don’t just dunk it quickly; let the bread soak in the custard for about 15-20 seconds per side. This allows the bread to really absorb the flavor and moisture. If the bread is very dry, you might even want to let it soak a little longer.
As you dip the bread, gently press down on it to ensure it’s fully submerged in the custard. You want the bread to be saturated but not falling apart. Once the bread is soaked, carefully lift it out of the custard and let any excess drip back into the bowl.
Place the soaked bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will prevent them from sticking and make it easier to transfer them to the skillet later. You can also stack the slices slightly if you’re short on space, but be careful not to overcrowd them.

Cooking the French Toast:

Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. The butter should be sizzling gently, but not burning. If the butter starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, carefully place the soaked bread slices into the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; you want to leave enough space between the slices so they can cook evenly. Depending on the size of your skillet, you might need to cook the French toast in batches.
Cook the French toast for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Keep a close eye on the French toast as it cooks, and adjust the heat as needed to prevent it from burning. You want the outside to be nicely browned and crispy, while the inside remains soft and custardy.
Use a spatula to carefully flip the French toast over to the other side. Add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet before flipping, if needed. This will help ensure that the second side also gets nicely browned and crispy.
Continue cooking the French toast for another 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. To check if the French toast is cooked through, you can gently press down on the center with a spatula. If it feels firm and springy, it’s ready. If it still feels soft and mushy, cook it for a little longer.
Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and place it on a clean plate. If you’re cooking in batches, you can keep the cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until you’re ready to serve it.
Repeat steps 2-6 with the remaining bread slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed. Make sure to wipe out the skillet between batches if any burnt bits accumulate.

Serving and Enjoying:

Once all the French toast is cooked, it’s time to serve it! There are so many delicious ways to enjoy French toast, so feel free to get creative with your toppings.
My personal favorite is to drizzle the French toast with maple syrup. The sweetness of the syrup perfectly complements the richness of the custard and the crispy texture of the bread.
You can also add fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The berries add a burst of freshness and acidity that balances out the sweetness of the French toast.
Another popular topping is powdered sugar. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
For an extra indulgent treat, you can top the French toast with whipped cream. The whipped cream adds a creamy and decadent element that takes the French toast to the next level.
Other topping ideas include chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, chopped nuts, or even a scoop of ice cream. The possibilities are endless!
Serve the French toast immediately while it’s still warm and crispy. Enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

Bread Choice: While this recipe calls for white bread, you can use other types of bread as well. Brioche, challah, or even sourdough bread would all work well. Just keep in mind that different types of bread will absorb the custard differently, so you might need to adjust the soaking time accordingly.
Custard Variations: You can also experiment with different flavors in the custard. For example, you could add a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist, or a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty flavor. You could also add a splash of bourbon or rum for a boozy kick.
Overnight French Toast: For an even richer and more flavorful French toast, you can prepare it the night before. Simply soak the bread slices in the custard mixture and then refrigerate them overnight. The next morning, cook the French toast as directed. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard and results in an incredibly delicious and decadent breakfast.
Baked French Toast Casserole: If you’re feeding a crowd, you can make a baked French toast casserole. Simply arrange the soaked bread slices in a baking dish, pour any remaining custard over the top, and bake in a preheated oven (350°F) for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
Savory French Toast: French toast doesn’t have to be sweet! You can also make a savory version by omitting the sugar and adding savory ingredients to the custard, such as grated cheese, chopped herbs, or spices like garlic powder or onion powder. Serve the savory French toast with a fried egg, bacon, or sausage for a complete and satisfying meal.
Gluten-Free French Toast: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread. There are many delicious gluten-free bread options available these days, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that works well.
Vegan French Toast: To make this recipe vegan, you can substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), the milk with almond milk or soy milk, and the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

Troubleshooting:

French Toast is Soggy: If your French toast is coming out soggy, it could be due to a few reasons. First, make sure you’re not soaking the bread for too long. The bread should be saturated, but not falling apart. Second, make sure your skillet is hot enough. If the skillet is not hot enough, the bread will absorb too much of the custard and become soggy. Finally, don’t overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding the skillet will lower the temperature and prevent the French toast from browning properly.
French Toast is Burning: If your French toast is burning, it could be because the heat is too high. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the French toast more slowly. You can also add a little more butter to the skillet to prevent the French toast from sticking and burning.
French Toast is Not Cooking Through: If your French toast is browning on the outside but still raw on the inside, it could be because the heat is too high. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the French toast more slowly. You can also cover the skillet with a lid to help trap the heat and cook the French toast more evenly.
Custard is Too Thin: If your custard is too thin, you can add a little more heavy cream or cornstarch to thicken it up. Whisk in a tablespoon of heavy cream or a teaspoon of cornstarch at a time until the custard reaches the desired consistency.
Custard is Too Thick: If your custard

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This isn’t just any bread; it’s a slice of homemade happiness, a testament to the simple joy of baking. I truly believe this white bread recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread filling their home. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an experience, a chance to connect with the age-old tradition of bread making, and a guaranteed way to impress your family and friends.

But why is it a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the incredible taste and satisfying texture, it’s the versatility that truly sets it apart. This isn’t just for sandwiches (though, trust me, a turkey and swiss on this bread is divine!). Think about it: golden-brown toast slathered with butter and jam for breakfast, crispy croutons for your favorite salad, or even a decadent bread pudding for dessert. The possibilities are truly endless!

And speaking of possibilities, let’s talk about serving suggestions and variations. For a classic touch, serve warm slices with a generous dollop of homemade butter. Or, get creative and use it to make French toast that will rival any brunch spot. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a handful of chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme to the dough for an aromatic twist. You could also incorporate some shredded cheese, like cheddar or parmesan, for a savory loaf that’s perfect for dipping in soup. Another fun variation is to add a swirl of cinnamon and sugar before baking for a sweet treat that’s reminiscent of cinnamon rolls. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

For a truly special occasion, consider using this bread to make miniature loaves as gifts. Wrap them in parchment paper and tie them with a ribbon for a thoughtful and delicious present. Or, use it to create stunning centerpieces for your next dinner party. A beautifully arranged bread basket filled with slices of this homemade goodness is sure to impress your guests.

I know that baking bread can sometimes seem intimidating, but I promise you, this recipe is surprisingly easy to follow. With a little patience and a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm, crusty loaf of homemade white bread in no time. And the best part? The satisfaction of knowing that you created something truly special from scratch.

So, what are you waiting for? Preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

And once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, your variations, and your stories in the comments below. Did you add any special ingredients? Did you serve it with a particular dish? I’m always eager to learn from my readers and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear from you! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade bread!
White Bread: Nutrition, Benefits, and Health Concerns

Classic French toast: day-old bread soaked in rich custard, pan-fried to golden perfection. Simple, delicious breakfast or brunch!

Prep Time10 minutes

Cook Time15 minutes

Total Time25 minutes

Category: Breakfast

Yield: 4 servings

Save This Recipe

Ingredients
- 8 slices of white bread, preferably day-old
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Prepare the bread. You can use the bread slices as they are, or you can cut them in half diagonally to create triangles. If your bread is very fresh, you might want to let it sit out for an hour or so to dry out slightly.
3. Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Let the bread soak in the custard for about 15-20 seconds per side.
4. Gently press down on the bread to ensure it’s fully submerged in the custard.
5. Place the soaked bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet and let it melt completely.
7. Once the butter is melted and the skillet is hot, carefully place the soaked bread slices into the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the skillet; you might need to cook the French toast in batches.
8. Cook the French toast for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
9. Use a spatula to carefully flip the French toast over to the other side. Add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet before flipping, if needed.
10. Continue cooking the French toast for another 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. To check if the French toast is cooked through, you can gently press down on the center with a spatula. If it feels firm and springy, it’s ready.
11. Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and place it on a clean plate. If you’re cooking in batches, you can keep the cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until you’re ready to serve it.
12. Repeat steps 2-6 with the remaining bread slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed. Make sure to wipe out the skillet between batches if any burnt bits accumulate.
13. Once all the French toast is cooked, it’s time to serve it! There are so many delicious ways to enjoy French toast, so feel free to get creative with your toppings.
14. My personal favorite is to drizzle the French toast with maple syrup. The sweetness of the syrup perfectly complements the richness of the custard and the crispy texture of the bread.
15. You can also add fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The berries add a burst of freshness and acidity that balances out the sweetness of the French toast.
16. Another popular topping is powdered sugar. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
17. For an extra indulgent treat, you can top the French toast with whipped cream. The whipped cream adds a creamy and decadent element that takes the French toast to the next level.
18. Other topping ideas include chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, chopped nuts, or even a scoop of ice cream. The possibilities are endless!
19. Serve the French toast immediately while it’s still warm and crispy. Enjoy!
Notes
- Bread Choice: While this recipe calls for white bread, you can use other types of bread as well. Brioche, challah, or even sourdough bread would all work well. Just keep in mind that different types of bread will absorb the custard differently, so you might need to adjust the soaking time accordingly.
- Custard Variations: You can also experiment with different flavors in the custard. For example, you could add a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist, or a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty flavor. You could also add a splash of bourbon or rum for a boozy kick.
- Overnight French Toast: For an even richer and more flavorful French toast, you can prepare it the night before. Simply soak the bread slices in the custard mixture and then refrigerate them overnight. The next morning, cook the French toast as directed. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard and results in an incredibly delicious and decadent breakfast.
- Baked French Toast Casserole: If you’re feeding a crowd, you can make a baked French toast casserole. Simply arrange the soaked bread slices in a baking dish, pour any remaining custard over the top, and bake in a preheated oven (350°F) for about 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
- Savory French Toast: French toast doesn’t have to be sweet! You can also make a savory version by omitting the sugar and adding savory ingredients to the custard, such as grated cheese, chopped herbs, or spices like garlic powder or onion powder. Serve the savory French toast with a fried egg, bacon, or sausage for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Gluten-Free French Toast: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread. There are many delicious gluten-free bread options available these days, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that works well.
- Vegan French Toast: To make this recipe vegan, you can substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), the milk with almond milk or soy milk, and the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.