Easy Raisin French Toast Recipe – Whole Grain & Cinnamon Delight

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Raisin French Toast Recipe – Whole Grain & Cinnamon Delight

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, weekends are for slow mornings and comforting breakfasts. And honestly, few things are as comforting as a warm, sweet bite of French toast. I’ve been making this raisin French toast for years – it’s a family favorite, and I’m so excited to finally share my easy recipe with you! It’s perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or a special treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average French toast. We’re taking things up a notch with a creamy raisin filling, warm cinnamon spice, and the goodness of whole grain bread. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that’s sure to brighten your morning. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make – even on a sleepy Sunday! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and honestly, who doesn’t love a little bit of sweetness to start the day?

Ingredients

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

• 6 slices Whole Grain Bread
• 4-5 tablespoons organic cream cheese
• ?? cup organic raisins (about ¼ cup is a good starting point!)
• 2 organic eggs
• ?? cup organic whole milk (around ½ cup should do it)
• ?? teaspoon ground cinnamon
• A pinch of ground nutmeg
• 3-4 tablespoons butter
• ?? cup sugar (for rolling, optional)
• 3 tablespoons maple syrup (for serving)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference:

• Whole Grain Bread: I love using whole grain bread for this recipe. It adds a lovely nutty flavor and a bit more substance. You can use any kind you like, but whole wheat or multigrain work beautifully.
• Organic Cream Cheese: Using organic cream cheese just feels good, doesn’t it? It’s super creamy and spreads like a dream. Make sure it’s softened for easy spreading!
• Raisin Varieties: Golden raisins are lovely for a milder sweetness, but regular dark raisins work perfectly too. You could even try a mix!
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg Quality: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg really elevate the flavor. If you can, invest in whole spices and grind them yourself – you’ll taste the difference. A little nutmeg goes a long way, so don’t overdo it!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, remove the crusts from your bread slices. Then, gently flatten each slice with a rolling pin. This helps them roll up nicely.
2. Now for the fun part! Spread a generous layer of cream cheese evenly over each flattened bread slice. Sprinkle those lovely raisins on top.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg until everything is well combined.
4. Tightly roll up each bread slice, and then dip each roll-up thoroughly into the egg mixture. Make sure it’s coated all over!
5. Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, carefully place the French toast roll-ups in the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and beautifully toasted. Keep an eye on them – you don’t want them to burn!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook in batches to ensure even browning.
• Gently press down on the roll-ups while they’re cooking to help them cook through.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the egg mixture.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work well) and vegan cream cheese. You can even use a flax egg instead of a regular egg!
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Simply use your favorite gluten-free bread.
• Spice Level Adjustment: My friend, Priya, loves adding a pinch of cardamom to the egg mixture for a more exotic flavor. Feel free to experiment!
• Festive Brunch Variation: During the holidays, I like to add a sprinkle of orange zest to the egg mixture and serve with cranberry sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Roll the warm French toast in sugar (if you like a little extra sweetness!) or drizzle generously with maple syrup. I love serving it with a side of fresh fruit – berries, bananas, or sliced peaches are all fantastic choices. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a nice touch too.

Storage Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for best results.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Can I use different types of bread for this recipe? Absolutely! Brioche, challah, or even white bread will work. Just keep in mind that different breads will absorb the egg mixture differently.
• How can I prevent the French toast from becoming soggy? Don’t soak the bread for too long in the egg mixture. A quick dip is all you need.
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time? You can assemble the roll-ups and store them in the refrigerator (covered) for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• What’s the best way to store leftover French toast? In an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to avoid making it soggy.
• Can I add other fruits or nuts to the filling? Definitely! Sliced strawberries, blueberries, chopped pecans, or walnuts would all be delicious additions.

Enjoy! I hope this recipe brings a little sunshine to your kitchen. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!