Yep, I said it. Protein French toast. It’s the perfect way to start your day feeling full and energized, without sacrificing that comforting, sweet flavor we all crave.

I don’t know about y’all, but I’m always looking for ways to sneak a little extra protein into my meals. Especially breakfast! It helps me avoid that mid-morning slump, and keeps me satisfied until lunchtime.

This recipe is surprisingly easy, and so customizable. You can use your favorite bread, your favorite protein powder, and your favorite toppings. It’s truly a choose-your-own-adventure breakfast.

This isn’t your average weekend brunch fare, folks. This is French toast reimagined. Think golden-brown, slightly crispy edges giving way to a soft, custardy interior, all while delivering a healthy dose of protein. Now, that’s what I call a win-win!

Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive in and make some Protein French Toast magic happen in your kitchen!

This protein French toast isn’t your average breakfast. I’ve tweaked a few things to create a recipe that’s both delicious and packed with protein. It’s the perfect way to start your day or refuel after a workout.

First, we’re using a protein powder blend that dissolves well and doesn’t leave a gritty texture. Nobody wants gritty French toast!

Flavor is also key. A touch of vanilla extract and cinnamon warms up the batter. It complements the protein powder instead of competing with it. A little sweetness goes a long way, too.

The bread choice matters more than you think. I prefer a sturdy bread, like brioche or challah, because they soak up the batter without getting soggy. You want that custard-like interior while still having a nicely crisp exterior.

Don’t overcrowd the pan! This is important, y’all. Giving each slice enough space ensures it browns evenly and gets that beautiful golden crust.

And finally, the toppings! While maple syrup is classic, I love adding fresh berries, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or even a sprinkle of nuts for extra texture and flavor. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Let’s gather our goodies to whip up this protein-packed French toast! I promise, it’s easier than saying “biscuits and gravy” after a big Sunday brunch.

• Bread: 6 slices of your favorite bread (I love brioche or challah for extra richness)
• Protein Powder: 1 scoop (about 30g) of vanilla protein powder (whey or plant-based works!)
• Eggs: 2 large
• Milk: 1/4 cup (dairy or non-dairy)
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, but adds a warm touch)
• Sweetener: 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup, honey, or your preferred sweetener (adjust to taste)
• Butter or Oil: For greasing the griddle or pan

Don’t be scared off by the protein powder; it just adds a lovely boost without changing the flavor much. If you are using unsweetened protein powder, you may need to add a touch more sweetener.

Remember, this is just a starting point, so feel free to adjust things to your liking. A pinch of cardamom? Go for it! A splash of orange zest? Why not?

Step 1: Whisk Together the Base

In a shallow dish, whisk together your eggs, milk (or dairy-free alternative), protein powder, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined. There shouldn’t be any lumps of protein powder!

The mixture should be smooth and fragrant, just begging for some bread to soak it up.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are well coated. Don’t let it sit for too long, or your bread will get soggy and fall apart. Nobody wants that.

A quick dip on each side, maybe 5-10 seconds per side, is usually just right.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, place the soaked bread slices onto the griddle. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Keep an eye on it! You want a beautiful golden-brown color, not burnt.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Fresh berries, a drizzle of maple syrup (or sugar-free syrup), a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of nuts are all great options.

Truly, this Protein French Toast is a blank canvas for all your breakfast dreams.

Enjoy your protein-packed breakfast! You deserve it.

Now, let’s talk serving suggestions. Because honestly, the right toppings can really take this protein French toast to the next level.

I always start with a drizzle of pure maple syrup. It’s a classic for a reason, y’all. Its sweetness perfectly complements the eggy bread.

Fresh berries are a must! Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries…mix and match to your heart’s content. They add a burst of flavor and a lovely pop of color.

For a little crunch, I like to sprinkle on some chopped nuts. Toasted pecans or walnuts are my go-to choices. They add a wonderful nutty aroma and satisfying texture.

Feeling a little decadent? A dollop of Greek yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream is amazing. It adds a creamy richness that’s hard to resist.

And don’t forget about a dusting of powdered sugar! It makes everything look extra fancy, even if it only takes a few seconds to add. It just adds that extra bit of sweetness.

Bonus tip: If you want to get really creative, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top. It will warm up the spices and add a delightful aroma. Or add a bit of orange zest!

Ultimately, the best way to serve protein French toast is however you like it best. Experiment with different toppings and find your perfect combination!

Got leftover protein French toast? Lucky you! It reheats surprisingly well.

Storing: Let your French toast cool completely. Then, stack the slices in an airtight container, separating each layer with parchment paper. This prevents sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing is also an option! Follow the same cooling and layering instructions, but place the container in the freezer. Frozen protein French toast will keep for about 2 months. I like to individually wrap each slice before freezing. This makes it easy to grab just one or two for a quick breakfast.

Reheating: From the fridge, you can reheat protein French toast in a toaster oven for a few minutes per side, or in a skillet with a little butter over medium heat. It will get crispy again. Microwaving is an option in a pinch, but it can make it a little soft.

From frozen, pop the slices directly into the toaster or toaster oven. You may need to add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

Ways to Reuse: Don’t just think breakfast! Protein French toast can be repurposed into delicious desserts or snacks.

Cut it into strips and serve it with a yogurt dip for a fun afternoon treat. Or, crumble it over ice cream. So good!

Another idea is to cut the protein French toast into cubes. Then, bake them until crunchy for protein-packed croutons on your salad. Waste not, want not, as my grandma always said.

You could even use it as a base for a savory dish! Top slices with avocado, a fried egg, and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a satisfying and unusual meal. Get creative!

Protein French toast is already a champion at taking a classic breakfast and giving it a healthy makeover. But what if you want to tweak it even more? Or need to because you’re missing an ingredient? Here are some easy swaps and fun twists you can try. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own.

• Protein Powder: Don’t have vanilla protein powder? No sweat. Use chocolate for a richer, dessert-like flavor. Or try unflavored protein powder and add a splash of vanilla extract and a pinch of sweetener. Whey, casein, soy, or even a plant-based protein powder will all work. Just keep in mind that plant-based proteins sometimes have a stronger flavor, so start with a smaller amount.
• Bread: While I love using brioche for its richness, you can absolutely use other types of bread. Whole wheat bread adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. Sourdough gives a tangy twist. Even gluten-free bread works well, just be mindful that it might be a bit more delicate and require a little extra care when flipping.
• Milk: Dairy-free? Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or cashew milk are all great substitutes for regular milk. Each will give a slightly different flavor, so play around and see what you like best. Coconut milk will add a subtle coconut flavor.
• Sweetener: Maple syrup is my go-to, but honey, agave, or even a sugar-free syrup will work just fine. You could also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and sweetness.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even pumpkin pie spice to the egg mixture for a warm and comforting flavor. A tiny pinch of cardamom can also be delightful.
• Berry Blast: Fold fresh or frozen berries into the batter before dipping the bread. Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries are all delicious additions. Top with even more berries after cooking for a burst of freshness.
• Nutty Goodness: Add a tablespoon of almond butter or peanut butter to the batter for a nutty flavor and extra protein. Top with chopped nuts for added crunch.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. The beauty of protein French toast is how easily you can adapt it to your own tastes and dietary needs. Have fun experimenting, and let me know what creative variations you come up with!

Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions about this delicious and nutritious Protein French Toast!

Can I use regular bread for Protein French Toast?

Absolutely! While I often use a hearty whole-wheat or multigrain bread for added fiber, regular white bread will work just fine. The protein powder in the batter will still add a significant boost, and you’ll still end up with a tasty and satisfying breakfast. Just keep in mind that the texture might be slightly different, possibly a bit softer.

What kind of protein powder is best for Protein French Toast?

Whey protein is a popular choice because it mixes well and has a relatively neutral flavor. However, you can experiment with other types like casein, soy, or even plant-based protein powders like pea or brown rice protein. I’ve found that vanilla or unflavored protein powders tend to work best. Just be sure to check the label for any added sugars or artificial sweeteners if you’re trying to keep things on the healthier side.

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

A well-greased pan is key! I recommend using a non-stick skillet and generously coating it with cooking spray or a bit of butter. Make sure the pan is heated to medium before adding the bread. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the slices in batches to ensure they brown evenly and don’t steam.

Can I make Protein French Toast ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare Protein French Toast in advance. Once cooked, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave, toaster oven, or skillet until warmed through. Keep in mind that it might lose a little of its crispness, but it will still be delicious.

How can I customize my Protein French Toast?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! Get creative with your toppings! Fresh berries, sliced bananas, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of nuts are all fantastic options. You can also add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter for extra flavor. And for a truly decadent treat, try adding a spoonful of peanut butter or Nutella. If y’all are feeling extra fancy, a few chocolate chips never hurt nobody!