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Deliciously Easy French Pain Perdu Recipe served with maple syrup on a plate.

Pain Perdu (French Toast)

A cozy breakfast dish that transforms stale bread into a deliciously custardy treat with a crispy edge.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: French
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 slices thick slices of bread (brioche, baguette) Use stale bread for best results.
  • 2 large eggs
  • 0.5 cup milk Or half milk, half cream for a richer taste.
  • 1 tablespoon sugar Optional, for added sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter For frying in the pan.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Whisk the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt in a shallow bowl until smooth and lightly foamy.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter until fully melted.
  3. Dip each slice of bread into the custard, letting dry bread sit for 10 to 15 seconds per side.
  4. Place the soaked bread in the pan and cook for 2 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  5. Serve immediately while crispy on the outside and warm and custardy on the inside.

Notes

Do not rush the cooking process; cooking on medium heat helps develop a golden crust. Use a bit more butter between batches for better flavor.