French Toast Bagels are a yummy twist on a classic breakfast! They combine the fluffy taste of French toast with the shape of a bagel—great for busy mornings.
These bagels are cinnamon-sprinkled and perfect for adding your favorite toppings, like syrup or fresh fruit. I love them toasted with a bit of butter and a smile! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Plain bagels are great for this recipe, but if you want a twist, try using everything bagels for a savory-sweet combo or cinnamon raisin bagels for extra flavor.
Eggs: Large eggs give the best result here, but if you’re looking for a vegan option, substitute with a mix of ground flaxseed and water or a commercial egg replacer.
Whole Milk or Cream: Whole milk enhances creaminess, but any milk works! Almond milk or oat milk can be good dairy-free alternatives. Just be sure to choose unsweetened varieties.
Ground Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds warmth and spice. If you’re out, nutmeg can provide a nice flavor too, or you can try allspice for something different.
Powdered Sugar: While powdered sugar gives a nice touch, for a healthier option, try lightly dusting with ground nuts or skip the dusting entirely if you prefer.
How Do I Properly Soak the Bagels?
Soaking the bagels is key for achieving that custardy texture. Don’t rush this step! Make sure to dip each bagel half thoroughly but quickly. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a shallow bowl to easily access the egg mixture.
- When dipping, make sure both sides are coated. A quick soak of about 5 seconds on each side should do it! Too long can make them mushy.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; fry only a few bagel halves at a time for an even cook.
How to Make French Toast Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast Base:
- 4 plain bagels (sliced in half)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter or oil, for frying
For Serving:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious breakfast takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook. So, in about 25-30 minutes, you’ll have warm, sweet French toast bagels ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, start by whisking together the eggs, whole milk (or cream), granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is mixed well—this will be your custard base for the bagels!
2. Heating the Skillet:
Next, heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the skillet’s surface. This will help the bagels get nice and crispy as they cook.
3. Soaking the Bagels:
Now, it’s time to dip! Take each bagel half and dip it into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for just a moment on both sides. You want them coated but not overly soggy—just enough to absorb some custard goodness!
4. Cooking the Bagels:
Place the soaked bagel halves onto the heated skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. You’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen!
5. Draining Excess Oil:
Once cooked, carefully remove the French toast bagels from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil so they stay crispy.
6. Dusting with Powdered Sugar:
Lightly dust the warm bagels with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch. This adds a beautiful presentation while enhancing the flavor!
7. Serving:
Serve your French toast bagels warm with a side of maple syrup for drizzling. If you like, add fresh berries on top for an extra burst of flavor and color. Enjoy your delightful breakfast treat!
This recipe transforms regular bagels into a deliciously sweet breakfast reminiscent of traditional French toast—perfect for a cozy morning or brunch with friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels work best, feel free to experiment with cinnamon raisin bagels for added sweetness or everything bagels for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that flavors will vary.
What If I Don’t Have Whole Milk?
No problem! You can substitute whole milk with any milk you have on hand, like almond milk, oat milk, or skim milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you’re using a non-dairy option to avoid over-sweetening the dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good whisk before using it to ensure everything is well combined.
How Should I Store Leftover French Toast Bagels?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or back in a skillet for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture!
