Skillet French Toast with Stale Bread, Egg & Milk
Quick and practical, this skillet French toast turns day-old bread into a comforting breakfast. It gets golden outside, tender inside, and is ready in under 20 minutes.

- Total time25 min
- Prep10 min
- Cook15 min
- Yield3 servings
- DifficultyEasy
Ingredients
Instructions
- If the slices are very large, cut them in half to the thickness you prefer so they cook more evenly.
- In a shallow bowl whisk the eggs with the milk, 2 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon and a pinch of salt until combined.
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt the butter, spreading it to coat the bottom.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg-and-milk mixture for 10–15 seconds per side, letting it absorb without falling apart.
- Place the soaked slices in the hot skillet and fry 2–3 minutes per side, until nicely golden outside and tender inside.
- Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess fat.
- Sprinkle with the extra sugar and cinnamon mix or drizzle with honey/jam to taste and serve warm.
Tips
- Use slightly stale (day-old) bread so it soaks up the custard better without falling apart.
- For a creamier French toast, soak the slices a little longer—watch closely so they don’t get soggy.
- Fry over medium-low heat to brown evenly without burning the exterior while the center cooks through.
Variations
- Add orange zest or a splash of vanilla extract to the custard for extra aroma.
- Replace 1/4 of the milk with coconut milk for a more tropical flavor.
- Brush the slices with olive oil instead of butter for a less sweet, crispier version.
FAQ
Can I use a French roll instead of sandwich bread?
Yes — cut the French roll in half and shorten the soaking time so it doesn’t become overly soggy.
How do I reheat already-made French toast without drying it out?
Reheat quickly in a skillet over low heat with a little butter, or warm in the oven at 160 °C (320 °F) for 5–8 minutes.
Can I prepare the custard mixture the night before?
Yes — mix the liquids and sugar the night before, but dip the bread only just before frying.
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