So, what makes this vegan French toast recipe so darn good? It’s all about the details, y’all. I’ve tested this recipe more times than I care to admit to get it just right.

First, the bread. A good, sturdy bread is key. Day-old challah or brioche works beautifully, even though they aren’t vegan! You want something that can soak up the custard without turning to mush.

The custard is where the magic happens. I use a blend of plant-based milk (oat is my favorite), nutritional yeast for that eggy richness, and a touch of cornstarch to help it thicken as it cooks.

And don’t forget the spices! Cinnamon and nutmeg are classics, but I also like to add a pinch of cardamom for a little something extra. It’s a warm, inviting flavor that really elevates the dish.

I also included flaxseed meal. Why flaxseed meal? It serves as a binder and adds a touch of nuttiness.

Finally, cooking it low and slow ensures the inside is cooked through and the outside is golden brown and crispy. Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to French toast!

You want a slight browning before flipping so the insides aren’t total mush. Trust me, the wait is worth it.

• Bread: You’ll want about 6 slices. I like using challah or brioche, but any bread will work! A slightly stale bread is best because it soaks up the custard better.
• Plant-based milk: 1 cup. I usually use almond or oat milk, but soy milk or cashew milk will also work.
• Nutritional yeast: 1 tablespoon. Don’t skip this! It adds a cheesy, savory depth, kind of like what eggs would add to traditional French toast.
• Maple syrup: 2 tablespoons. For a touch of sweetness. You can always add more to the finished product, too.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon. A classic, warm flavor enhancer.
• Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon. Adds that cozy, comforting aroma.
• Salt: A pinch. Just a little bit to balance out the sweetness.
• Vegan butter or oil: For greasing the pan. This keeps the French toast from sticking, which, trust me, is important!

1. Prepare the Batter

First things first, let’s get that batter ready. In a shallow dish, whisk together your plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This is where the magic happens; the nutritional yeast adds a savory depth that you won’t believe is vegan!

Make sure it’s all well combined, no one wants clumps in their French toast.

2. Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the batter, making sure both sides are thoroughly coated. Don’t let the bread soak *too* long, just a few seconds per side is perfect. We want it saturated, but not falling apart.

I like to use a good quality bread, something sturdy that can hold up to the soaking.

3. Cook the French Toast

Melt some vegan butter in a skillet or on a griddle over medium heat. Once melted and the pan is hot, place the soaked bread slices in the skillet.

Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on it, and adjust the heat if needed to prevent burning.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Maple syrup is a classic, of course, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Fresh berries, powdered sugar, or even a dollop of vegan whipped cream would be fantastic.

This vegan French toast is wonderful for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet treat any time of day. Enjoy, y’all!

Serving up vegan French toast is almost as much fun as making it! The possibilities are truly endless.

I personally love to keep it simple sometimes. A dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup are always crowd-pleasers.

Want to take it up a notch? Fresh berries add a beautiful pop of color and flavor. Think blueberries, raspberries, or sliced strawberries. They complement the richness of the French toast perfectly.

A dollop of vegan whipped cream is another fantastic option. Oh my word, it’s decadent!

For a more substantial brunch, consider pairing your French toast with a side of crispy vegan bacon or sausage. Sweet and savory is a classic combination for a reason.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a little crunch. The added texture is such a treat.

For a truly indulgent experience, you can create a French toast bar. Offer a variety of toppings and let everyone customize their own creations. It’s a guaranteed hit, y’all!

And don’t forget the drinks! A glass of orange juice, a cup of coffee, or even a mimosa are all wonderful accompaniments to your vegan French toast feast.

Got leftover vegan French toast? Lucky you! Don’t let those golden-brown slices go to waste.

Storing is simple: Let the French toast cool completely on a wire rack first. This prevents them from getting soggy in the container.

Stack the slices in an airtight container, separating the layers with parchment paper. This will keep them from sticking together.

They’ll happily keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating? I’ve got a few ideas.

Toaster: This is my go-to method for a quick and crispy reheat. Just pop them in like regular toast!

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Skillet: For a little extra indulgence, reheat the French toast in a skillet with a pat of vegan butter. Cook over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crisp. Think of it as a mini-revival of that delicious first cook.

Reusing leftovers: Beyond a simple reheat, there are so many possibilities.

French Toast Casserole: Chop up the leftover French toast and use it as the base for a delicious baked casserole. Add some berries, nuts, and a custard mixture, and you have a brunch masterpiece.

French Toast Sticks: Cut the French toast into strips and bake them until crispy for a fun snack or breakfast. Kids love these, and honestly, so do I!

Bread Pudding: Similar to the casserole, you can use leftover French toast in a vegan bread pudding. The flavors are already there, so you’re halfway to dessert heaven.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Those leftover slices are just begging for a delicious second act. I hope y’all enjoy!

Let’s talk swaps! Sometimes you’re missing an ingredient, or maybe you just want to put your own spin on things. That’s perfectly fine with French toast, vegan or otherwise.

Bread: While brioche is my go-to, challah is another great option if you’re looking for an eggy bread alternative. Sourdough also works, but its tang will come through, giving you a unique flavor. Gluten-free bread can be used, just handle it gently since it tends to be more delicate.

Plant-Based Milk: I love using oat milk for its creamy texture and subtle sweetness. Almond milk is a good lower-calorie option, but it’s not quite as rich. Soy milk provides a neutral flavor and also works great. Coconut milk (the kind from the carton, not the can!) will give you a hint of coconut, if you’re into that.

Sweetener: Maple syrup is my personal favorite, of course. Agave is a great substitute with a similar sweetness level. You can also use regular sugar or brown sugar, just make sure it’s dissolved well in the milk mixture.

Spices: Cinnamon is classic, but don’t be afraid to experiment! A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth, and a little cardamom can bring a unique, exotic flavor. For a holiday twist, try adding pumpkin pie spice.

Flavor Extracts: Vanilla is a must for me, but almond extract can also be delicious, especially with berries. A tiny bit of lemon extract adds a bright, fresh flavor.

Add-Ins: Consider stirring in some mashed banana for extra sweetness and moisture. You can also add a tablespoon or two of your favorite nut butter (almond, peanut, cashew) for richness and protein. I’ve even added a handful of vegan chocolate chips before for a decadent treat.

Want to get fancy? After cooking, top with fresh fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. A dollop of vegan whipped cream wouldn’t hurt either!

Let’s tackle some common questions I get about making this dish!

Can I make Vegan French Toast ahead of time?

You can, but it’s best served fresh! If you absolutely need to prep, I recommend making the batter ahead of time and storing it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before using. Cooked Vegan French Toast can be reheated in a toaster or oven, but it won’t be quite as magical as when it’s right off the griddle.

What kind of bread is best for Vegan French Toast?

That’s a great question! A slightly stale, dense bread works best. Challah, brioche, or even a good quality sourdough are fantastic choices. The denser texture helps the bread soak up the batter without becoming soggy. Avoid very soft breads like sandwich bread, they can fall apart easily.

What can I use as an egg substitute in Vegan French Toast?

The blend of ingredients in my recipe does the trick beautifully, but there are some alternatives. Many recipes rely on flaxseed meal or mashed banana as a binder, though these can alter the flavor. I love the combination of plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, and a touch of cornstarch. It yields a custard-like texture and a slightly savory flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly. It’s a real game changer!

Is Vegan French Toast gluten-free?

As written, this recipe isn’t gluten-free, since it typically uses wheat-based bread. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free bread! Just be sure to choose a sturdy variety that can hold its shape when soaked. There are many excellent options available now!

How do I keep my Vegan French Toast from being soggy?

Ah, the million-dollar question! First, don’t soak the bread for too long. A quick dip on each side is all you need. Second, make sure your griddle or pan is hot enough. A medium heat allows the French toast to cook through without burning. Finally, don’t overcrowd the pan. Give each slice enough space so the steam can escape, and you’ll end up with golden, crispy perfection. Trust me, it makes a big difference y’all!