Print

Easy Cheap French Toast Recipe Under 1 Dollar Perfect for Breakfast

easy cheap French toast recipe - featured image

A budget-friendly and comforting French toast recipe using simple pantry staples that whips up quickly and tastes indulgent.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 slices day-old bread (white or whole wheat, slightly stale works best)
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup milk (120 ml, any kind—whole, skim, or plant-based like almond or soy)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter or oil (unsalted butter recommended for flavor)
  • Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh fruit, or jam

Instructions

  1. Whisk the custard: In a medium bowl, crack the 2 large eggs and add 1/2 cup (120 ml) of milk. Whisk together until smooth and slightly frothy. Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk again to combine all flavors evenly.
  2. Prepare your bread: Lay out 4 slices of day-old bread on a plate. If bread is fresh, lightly toast it for 1-2 minutes to dry it out.
  3. Soak the bread: One slice at a time, dip the bread into the custard mixture. Let it soak for 20-30 seconds per side, allowing the bread to absorb enough but not become soggy.
  4. Heat the pan: Place a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil. Let it melt and coat the surface evenly.
  5. Cook the French toast: Place soaked bread slices in the hot pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on edges. Flip gently with a spatula.
  6. Drain and serve: Transfer cooked slices to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up excess butter. Serve warm with your choice of toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best soaking without falling apart. Control heat to medium to avoid burning or undercooking. Butter gives better flavor but burns faster; oil has a higher smoke point. Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven if making multiple batches. For vegan version, use flax egg and plant-based milk, cook with oil instead of butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast, budget breakfast, easy breakfast, cheap recipe, quick breakfast, cinnamon French toast, simple ingredients