Easy French Toast Recipe – Custard Powder & Vanilla Delight

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy French Toast Recipe – Custard Powder & Vanilla Delight

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this French toast recipe with you. It’s a little different from the usual, thanks to the addition of custard powder – it gives the most incredible flavour and a beautiful, soft texture. I first stumbled upon this version while experimenting in the kitchen, and it’s been a family favourite ever since. It’s perfect for a lazy weekend brunch, a quick weekday breakfast, or even a comforting dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average French toast. The custard powder adds a subtle sweetness and a lovely richness that takes it to another level. Plus, it’s super easy to make – ready in under 15 minutes! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and honestly, who doesn’t love a good, comforting plate of French toast?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 4-6 slices thick bread
• 2 tablespoons custard powder
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ?? teaspoon vanilla extract (about 1/2 tsp)
• ?? cup milk (about 1/2 cup or 120ml)
• ?? teaspoon butter (about 1-2 tsp) for frying
• Ground cinnamon (optional), for sprinkling

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Custard Powder: Exploring Varieties & Uses

Custard powder isn’t something everyone has in their pantry, but it’s worth grabbing! I usually use vanilla custard powder for this recipe, but you can experiment with other flavours like strawberry or chocolate. Around 30g of custard powder is equivalent to 2 tablespoons.

Vanilla Extract: Real vs. Artificial – What’s the Difference?

Real vanilla extract will always give you the best flavour, but artificial vanilla extract works in a pinch. If you’re using vanilla beans, scrape the seeds from about 1/2 a bean.

Milk: Choosing the Right Type for Richness

Full-fat milk will give you the richest, most decadent French toast. However, you can use lower-fat milk or even plant-based milk like almond or oat milk if you prefer.

Bread: Best Types for French Toast – Brioche, Challah & More

Thick-cut bread is key! Brioche and challah are fantastic choices because they’re rich and absorb the custard beautifully. But honestly, any sturdy bread will work – even a good quality white bread.

Butter: Salted vs. Unsalted – Which to Use?

I prefer using salted butter for a little extra flavour, but unsalted butter works just as well. If you’re using unsalted, you might want to add a tiny pinch of salt to the custard mixture.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the custard powder, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Gradually pour in the milk while stirring constantly. You want a smooth, lump-free mixture – nobody likes lumpy French toast!
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a little butter, spreading it evenly across the surface.
4. Now, dip each bread slice into the custard mixture, making sure it’s coated on both sides. Don’t soak it for too long, or it will become soggy.
5. Place the coated bread onto the hot skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Repeat with the remaining bread slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
7. Serve immediately while warm!

Expert Tips

Want to take your French toast game to the next level? Here are a few of my favourite tricks:

Achieving the Perfect Custard Consistency

The custard should be smooth and pourable, like pancake batter. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.

Preventing Soggy French Toast

Don’t over-soak the bread! A quick dip on each side is all you need. Also, make sure your skillet is hot enough.

Skillet Temperature Control for Golden Brown Results

Medium heat is your friend. If the skillet is too hot, the bread will burn before it cooks through. If it’s too low, it will be pale and greasy.

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan French Toast Adaptation

Swap the milk for plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work well) and use a vegan butter alternative.

Gluten-Free French Toast Options

Use your favourite gluten-free bread. It might be a little more delicate, so handle it gently.

Spice Level: Adding a Touch of Cardamom or Nutmeg

My friend, Priya, loves adding a pinch of cardamom to the custard mixture. It gives it a lovely warm flavour. Nutmeg is also delicious!

Festival Adaptations: Christmas & Easter Brunch Ideas

During Christmas, I love serving this with a side of spiced cranberry compote. For Easter, fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup are perfect.

Serving Suggestions

French toast is amazing on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your serving:

• A sprinkle of ground cinnamon
• A generous drizzle of maple syrup
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• A dollop of whipped cream
• A side of crispy bacon or sausage

Storage Instructions

French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to crisp it up.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is the best bread to use for French Toast?

Brioche and challah are my top picks, but any thick-cut, sturdy bread will work.

Can I make the custard mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good whisk before using.

How do I prevent the French Toast from sticking to the pan?

Make sure your skillet is well-buttered and heated to the right temperature.

What’s the difference between French Toast and Eggy Bread?

They’re pretty much the same thing! “Eggy bread” is the common name in the UK, while “French toast” is more common in the US and India.

Can I bake this French Toast instead of frying it?

Yes, you can! Arrange the soaked bread on a baking sheet and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. It won’t be quite as crispy, but it’s a healthier option.