Name: French Toast McCormick: The Ultimate Recipe Guide
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 3 servings
Ingredients: 6 slices of your favorite bread (brioche or challah recommended); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk (whole milk preferred, 2% acceptable); 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract; 1/2 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Nutmeg (optional); Pinch of salt; 2 tablespoons butter, for cooking; Your favorite toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream, etc.

French Toast McCormick: the name alone conjures up images of cozy weekend mornings, the aroma of cinnamon filling the air, and the satisfying crunch of perfectly golden bread. But this isn't just any French toast; it's a classic recipe, elevated by the trusted quality of McCormick spices, that has been gracing breakfast tables for generations.

While the origins of French toast can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was a simple way to use up stale bread, the McCormick version brings a distinctly American flair to this beloved dish. McCormick, a household name synonymous with flavor, has perfected the art of blending spices to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience.

What makes French Toast McCormick so irresistible? It's the harmonious blend of sweet and spice, the custardy interior yielding to a crisp exterior, and the sheer simplicity of preparation. This recipe is a testament to the fact that you don't need complicated ingredients or fancy techniques to create a breakfast masterpiece. It's a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for a leisurely brunch or a quick weekday treat. So, grab your favorite bread, gather your McCormick spices, and let's embark on a journey to create the ultimate French toast experience!

Ingredients:

6 slices of your favorite bread (I prefer brioche or challah for extra richness!)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk (whole milk works best, but 2% is fine too)
1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, but adds a luxurious touch)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract
1/2 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth)
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter, for cooking
Your favorite toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream, etc.

Preparing the Egg Mixture:

In a medium-sized bowl, crack the two large eggs. Make sure you don't get any shell fragments in there!
Add the milk and heavy cream (if using) to the bowl with the eggs. The heavy cream really elevates the richness, so I highly recommend it if you have some on hand.
Now, it's time for the sweetness and spice! Pour in the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt.
Whisk everything together vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. You want to make sure the sugar is fully dissolved and there are no streaks of egg yolk. A good whisking ensures a consistent and delicious coating for your French toast.
Pro Tip: For an even smoother batter, you can strain the egg mixture through a fine-mesh sieve. This will remove any bits of egg white that might not have fully incorporated.

Soaking the Bread:

Place a slice of bread into the egg mixture. Let it soak for about 15-20 seconds on each side. You want the bread to be thoroughly saturated, but not so soggy that it falls apart. The soaking time will depend on the type of bread you're using. Brioche and challah are more absorbent, so they might need a little less time. Stale bread also soaks up the mixture more quickly.
Carefully flip the bread over and repeat the soaking process on the other side. Gently press down on the bread with a fork or spatula to ensure it's fully submerged.
Remove the soaked bread from the egg mixture and place it on a plate or baking sheet. This will prevent the bread from becoming too soggy while you're cooking the other slices.
Repeat steps 1-3 with the remaining slices of bread, making sure to stir the egg mixture occasionally to keep it well combined.

Cooking the French Toast:

Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Allow the skillet to heat up completely before adding the butter. A hot skillet is essential for achieving that golden-brown crust.
Add one tablespoon of butter to the hot skillet. Let the butter melt completely and coat the bottom of the skillet evenly. The butter not only adds flavor but also helps to prevent the French toast from sticking.
Once the butter is melted and shimmering, carefully place two slices of soaked bread into the skillet. Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this will lower the temperature and prevent the French toast from browning properly.
Cook the French toast for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it's golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to gently flip the French toast over. If the French toast is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and place it on a plate. If you're making a large batch, you can keep the cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until you're ready to serve.
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet and repeat steps 3-5 with the remaining slices of soaked bread.
Important Note: Keep an eye on the skillet and add more butter as needed to prevent the French toast from sticking. You want the skillet to be lightly greased at all times.

Serving and Topping:

Serve the French toast immediately while it's still warm and crispy.
Drizzle generously with your favorite maple syrup. I personally love using pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and elegance.
Top with fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, for a burst of flavor and color.
Creative Topping Ideas: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding sliced bananas, chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even a scoop of ice cream. The possibilities are endless!
Make it Savory: For a savory twist, try topping your French toast with a fried egg, bacon, and a sprinkle of chives.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect French Toast:

Use Stale Bread: Stale bread is actually ideal for French toast because it soaks up the egg mixture better without becoming soggy. If you don't have stale bread, you can lightly toast fresh bread in the oven to dry it out slightly.
Don't Oversoak: Be careful not to oversoak the bread, as this will result in soggy French toast. The bread should be thoroughly saturated, but not falling apart.
Use a Hot Skillet: A hot skillet is essential for achieving that golden-brown crust. Make sure the skillet is fully heated before adding the butter and the soaked bread.
Don't Overcrowd the Skillet: Overcrowding the skillet will lower the temperature and prevent the French toast from browning properly. Cook the French toast in batches, making sure to leave enough space between the slices.
Adjust the Heat: If the French toast is browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. You want the French toast to cook through without burning.
Keep it Warm: If you're making a large batch, you can keep the cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until you're ready to serve.
Experiment with Flavors: Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors and spices. Try adding a pinch of cardamom, ginger, or even a splash of orange liqueur to the egg mixture.
Make it Ahead: You can prepare the egg mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just whisk it well before using.
Freeze for Later: Cooked French toast can be frozen for later use. Let it cool completely, then wrap it individually in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. To reheat, simply toast it in the toaster or bake it in the oven.

Variations on Classic French Toast:

Stuffed French Toast: Spread cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves between two slices of bread before soaking and cooking.
Baked French Toast Casserole: Arrange soaked bread in a baking dish, pour the remaining egg mixture over it, and bake until golden brown and puffy. This is a great option for feeding a crowd.
French Toast Sticks: Cut the soaked bread into strips and cook them in a skillet or on a griddle. These are perfect for dipping!
Savory French Toast: Use savory ingredients like cheese, ham, and herbs in the egg mixture.
Vegan French Toast: Use plant-based milk and eggs to create a vegan version of this classic dish. There are many great vegan egg replacers available on the market.

McCormick® Vanilla Extract and Cinnamon: The Secret to Flavor

I always use McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract and McCormick® Ground Cinnamon in my French toast recipe. The vanilla extract adds a rich, warm flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar, while the cinnamon provides a touch of spice and warmth. These two ingredients are essential for creating a truly delicious and memorable French toast experience.

Why McCormick®? I trust McCormick® because of their commitment to quality and flavor. Their vanilla extract is made with real vanilla beans, and their cinnamon is sourced from the finest cinnamon trees. You can taste the difference in every bite!

Enjoy Your Homemade French Toast!

I hope you enjoy this recipe for classic French toast! It's a simple yet satisfying dish that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a special dessert. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a truly delicious and memorable meal that everyone will love. Don't forget to experiment with different toppings and variations to find your perfect French toast creation!

Conclusion:

This isn't just any French toast recipe; it's a gateway to breakfast bliss! The French Toast McCormick recipe is a must-try because it elevates a classic to something truly special. It's quick, easy, and delivers consistently delicious results every single time. The subtle blend of spices from McCormick adds a warmth and depth of flavor that you simply won't find in your average French toast. It's the kind of breakfast that makes you want to linger at the table, savoring each and every bite. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile! While the recipe itself is perfection, feel free to get creative and make it your own.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Toppings: A generous drizzle of pure maple syrup is always a winner. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. * Fruity Delights: Top with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Sliced bananas and a dollop of whipped cream are also fantastic. For a warmer option, try sautéed apples with cinnamon. * Nutty Goodness: Sprinkle with chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for added texture and flavor. A drizzle of nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew) takes it to the next level. * Savory Twist: Believe it or not, French toast can be savory! Try topping it with a fried egg, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of chives. A drizzle of hot sauce adds a kick. * Bread Options: While the recipe calls for a specific type of bread, don't be afraid to experiment. Challah bread makes incredibly rich and decadent French toast. Brioche is another excellent choice. Even day-old croissants can be transformed into a delightful treat. * Spice It Up: Adjust the spices to your liking. A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can add a unique flavor profile. For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper. * Dipping Sauce: Create a simple dipping sauce by combining maple syrup with a splash of orange juice and a pinch of cinnamon. * Overnight Soak: For an even richer and more flavorful French toast, soak the bread in the egg mixture overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the bread to fully absorb the flavors. * Stuffed French Toast: Take your French toast to the next level by stuffing it with cream cheese, fruit preserves, or even chocolate hazelnut spread. I truly believe that this French Toast McCormick recipe will become a staple in your breakfast rotation. It's perfect for a lazy weekend brunch, a quick weekday breakfast, or even a special occasion. The ease of preparation and the incredible flavor make it a winner every time. So, what are you waiting for? Head to your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try. I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. And most importantly, don't forget to share your experience! I'd love to hear about your variations, your favorite toppings, and how much your family enjoyed it. Leave a comment below, tag me in your photos on social media, and let's spread the French toast love! Happy cooking! I can't wait to hear how your French Toast McCormick turns out!