French Toast Waffles Recipe

Bread: Preferably stale, as it absorbs the egg mixture better and results in a crispier texture.

Eggs: Acts as the binding agent and provides richness to the dish.

Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter for coating the bread.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.

Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a hint of spice, complementing the sweetness of the dish.

Salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.

To ensure your waffles come out perfectly crispy, make sure your bread is slightly stale. Fresh bread tends to be too soft and can become soggy when dipped in the egg mixture. If you don't have stale bread, you can lightly toast the slices before dipping them. Additionally, don't rush the cooking process; allow the waffle iron to fully cook each slice until it's golden brown and crispy. This will give you that delightful crunch that makes French toast waffles so special.

• 4 slices preferably stale bread - Substitute with brioche or challah: These breads are rich and slightly sweet, making them ideal for French toast due to their ability to soak up the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

• 2 eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal or chia seeds: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg. This creates a gel-like consistency that works well as a binder in the recipe.

• ½ cup milk - Substitute with almond milk or oat milk: These plant-based milks provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative for those avoiding dairy.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup or almond extract: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and depth, while almond extract offers a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg or allspice: Both spices provide a warm, aromatic flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the French toast waffles.

• 1 pinch salt - Substitute with sea salt or kosher salt: These salts have a purer taste and larger crystals, which can enhance the flavor profile of the dish without overpowering it.

• Allow the French toast waffles to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy when stored.

• Once cooled, stack the waffles with a piece of parchment paper between each one. This ensures they don’t stick together.

• Place the stacked waffles into an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If using a bag, try to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within the next 2-3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.

• If freezing, label the container or bag with the date to keep track of freshness. Waffles can be frozen for up to 2 months.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the waffles on a baking sheet and cover with foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

• Alternatively, you can reheat them in a toaster or toaster oven for a crispier texture. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

• For a quick microwave option, place a waffle on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking for warmth.

• Add your favorite toppings like syrup, fresh fruit, or powdered sugar after reheating to enjoy a delightful breakfast or snack.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast waffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 10 minutes or until they are warmed through and regain their crispiness. This method helps maintain the texture without drying them out.

• Use a toaster for a quick and easy option. Simply pop the French toast waffles into the toaster and toast them on a medium setting. This will bring back their delightful crunch while warming them evenly.

• For a stovetop approach, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the French toast waffles in the skillet and cook for a couple of minutes on each side until they are heated through and slightly crispy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast waffles in the basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly and achieving the desired crispiness.

• For a microwave option, place the French toast waffles on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, checking for warmth. Note that this method may not retain the original crispiness.

• Waffle iron: A specialized appliance used to cook the bread slices, giving them a crispy, waffle-like texture.

• Mixing bowl: A bowl used to combine and whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt together.

• Whisk: A utensil used to blend the ingredients in the mixing bowl smoothly and incorporate air into the mixture.

• Measuring cups: Tools used to accurately measure the milk and other liquid ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure small quantities of ingredients like vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.

• Tongs: A tool used to dip the bread slices into the egg mixture and to handle the hot bread from the waffle iron safely.

• Serving plate: A plate used to serve the finished French toast waffles with your favorite toppings.

Use stale bread: Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture more quickly, reducing prep time.

Pre-mix ingredients: Combine eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt the night before to save time in the morning.

Batch cook: Cook multiple slices of bread in the waffle iron simultaneously if it fits, speeding up the process.

Use a blender: Blend the egg mixture for a smoother consistency and quicker coating.

Preheat efficiently: Turn on the waffle iron while preparing the egg mixture to save time.