Healthy French toast

The French toast of our childhood, in a healthier, waste-saving version: stale bread soaked in a lightly sweetened egg and milk mixture, then pan-fried until golden. Comforting and economical, it is the perfect indulgent weekend breakfast or snack for using up hard bread.

Preparation: 10 min  |  Cooking: 10 min  |  Servings: 4  |  Difficulty: Very easy

Calculated per serving from the Anses Ciqual 2025 values for each ingredient, based on the quantities in the list. Household measures (spoonfuls, pieces) use average weights. 218 kcal · 11 g protein · 30 g carbohydrate · 4 g fat

Ingredients

• 8 slices of stale wholemeal bread
• 3 eggs
• 250 ml of milk or plant-based drink
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

Method

1. Beat the eggs with the milk, cinnamon, vanilla and maple syrup.
2. Dip each slice of bread in the mixture so it soaks up well.
3. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes on each side in a lightly oiled frying pan until golden.
4. Serve warm with fresh fruit.

Nutritional benefits

This lighter version of French toast cuts the sugar right down (just a touch of maple syrup, with cinnamon and vanilla for flavour) and uses wholemeal bread, a source of fibre. The eggs and milk provide protein and calcium, turning a dessert into a balanced breakfast. It is also an ideal waste-saving recipe for using up stale bread, and far healthier than shop-bought pastries.

Variations and substitutions

• Lactose-free: use a plant-based drink.
• Use sourdough, homemade brioche or multigrain bread.
• Toppings: red berries, banana, compote, yoghurt.
• Savoury version: no sugar, with a little cheese and herbs.

Storage and making ahead

French toast is best eaten hot, just made. Leftovers can be reheated in the toaster or a frying pan. The egg and milk mixture can be prepared the evening before for a quick breakfast the next day.

💡 Good to know

The staler the bread, the better it absorbs the mixture without falling apart: it is the perfect recipe for never throwing bread away. Let each slice soak well for a soft centre.

Read also

Discover more children’s recipes · healthy & balanced recipes · vegetarian recipes.

The foods in this recipe: wholemeal bread · eggs · milk · plant-based drink · cinnamon.

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