McCormick French toast is one of those breakfast dishes that feels fancy yet is surprisingly easy to make. It’s the ultimate comfort food—soft on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and bursting with flavor. When you add McCormick spices to the mix, you don’t just make French toast; you create a breakfast masterpiece that’s impossible to resist. Imagine starting your morning with the warm aroma of cinnamon, the subtle sweetness of vanilla, and the cozy richness of nutmeg filling your kitchen. Whether you’re planning a leisurely weekend brunch, treating yourself to a luxurious breakfast in bed, or simply looking for a way to make an ordinary weekday morning feel special, this recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with comforting flavors, it pairs perfectly with an array of toppings—from classic maple syrup to a creative mix of fruits and nuts. So, grab your favorite bread, whisk up some custard, and let’s turn breakfast into an occasion!
French Toast has a fascinating history that spans centuries and cultures. To learn more about how this beloved breakfast dish originated, check out this detailed article on The History of French Toast.
Table of Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need for McCormick French Toast
For the French Toast:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or your preferred milk alternative)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon McCormick Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon McCormick Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon McCormick Nutmeg (optional, but highly recommended)
- Pinch of salt
- 8 slices of thick bread (like brioche, challah, or Texas toast)
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
- Nonstick cooking spray (optional, for extra ease)
Suggested Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit (berries, banana slices, or apple compote)
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts or granola
Step-by-Step Instructions – McCormick French Toast
1. Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, mix everything together until it forms a smooth, creamy custard. The McCormick spices will add warm, aromatic layers of flavor that elevate this dish from simple to spectacular. Pro tip: For an extra burst of flavor, let the custard sit for 5 minutes before using to allow the spices to fully meld.
2. Prepare the Bread
Lay out your bread slices on a clean surface, ensuring they are ready to go. Slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy. If your bread is fresh, you can leave it out on a wire rack for a few hours or lightly toast it in the oven at 250°F for about 10 minutes. This step ensures your French toast will have the perfect texture.
3. Soak the Bread
One slice at a time, dip the bread into the custard mixture. Gently press each slice down to ensure it fully absorbs the mixture. Flip it over and repeat on the other side. Depending on the thickness of your bread, let it soak for 10-20 seconds per side. Aim for bread that’s saturated but still holds its shape.
4. Heat the Pan
Place a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt completely and swirl it around to coat the entire surface of the pan. For extra convenience, you can add a quick spray of nonstick cooking spray before the butter to prevent sticking. Adjust the heat to ensure the butter doesn’t burn.
5. Cook the French Toast
Carefully transfer the soaked bread slices to the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each slice for about 3 minutes on the first side, until it’s golden brown and slightly crisp around the edges. Flip each slice gently and cook the other side for another 2-3 minutes. If the bread cooks too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Repeat this process, adding more butter as needed, until all slices are cooked to perfection.
6. Serve Warm
Once cooked, transfer the French toast to a serving platter or individual plates. To keep the toast warm while cooking the rest, place the finished slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven. When ready to serve, top with your favorite garnishes: a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or even a dollop of whipped cream. Don’t skip the maple syrup—it’s the finishing touch that ties everything together!
If you’re a fan of delightful and satisfying breakfast recipes like Mccormick French Toast recipe, be sure to explore our Breakfast Delice section. From sweet treats to savory delights, you’ll find a variety of dishes to brighten up your mornings and make every breakfast special!
Why This Recipe Stands Out
- Rich, Spiced Flavor: The combination of McCormick’s Vanilla Extract, Cinnamon, and Nutmeg infuses the French toast with a warm, aromatic blend that transforms a simple dish into a flavor-packed experience. The vanilla adds a creamy sweetness, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring cozy, comforting notes that make every bite feel like a hug on a plate. This trio of spices is what makes this recipe shine, setting it apart from ordinary versions.
- Easy to Customize: This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you prefer your French toast on the sweeter side, with toppings like powdered sugar and syrup, or you enjoy a savory twist, like adding crispy bacon or avocado, this dish can easily adapt to your cravings. You can even incorporate fillings like cream cheese or fruit compotes for an indulgent surprise. The possibilities are endless, making this a go-to recipe for any occasion.
- Perfect Texture: The key to achieving the ideal French toast lies in the balance of a rich custard and sturdy bread. Thick slices of brioche, challah, or Texas toast soak up just the right amount of custard, ensuring the interior is soft and custardy without being soggy. Meanwhile, cooking each slice to golden-brown perfection guarantees a slightly crisp, caramelized exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender inside.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Stale Bread: Day-old bread is the gold standard for French toast. Its slightly dry texture allows it to absorb the custard fully without falling apart, ensuring each slice is rich and flavorful without turning mushy. If you don’t have stale bread, you can quickly dry out fresh slices by baking them at 250°F for 10 minutes.
- Don’t Skimp on Spices: The McCormick cinnamon and nutmeg are the heart and soul of this recipe, bringing warm and inviting flavors to every bite. Adjust the quantities based on your personal preference, but don’t hold back—these spices are what make the French toast memorable. You can even experiment with a dash of allspice or ground cloves for a festive twist.
- Keep it Warm: If you’re preparing a big batch for a family brunch, keeping the cooked French toast warm is key. Place the slices on a baking sheet and store them in a preheated 200°F oven. This ensures they stay crisp on the outside and warm on the inside without drying out.
- Make it Dairy-Free: Whether you’re accommodating dietary restrictions or just trying something new, it’s easy to make this recipe dairy-free. Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk as a substitute for whole milk. For frying, plant-based butter or coconut oil works beautifully and adds its own unique flavor.
- Upgrade Your Toppings: The right toppings can take your French toast to the next level. For an indulgent treat, top it with a dollop of mascarpone or cream cheese. Drizzle caramel sauce for a rich sweetness, or sprinkle chocolate chips for a dessert-like finish. Fresh fruit, toasted nuts, or even a dusting of cocoa powder are fantastic additions that add both flavor and texture.
FAQs about Mccormick French Toast
1. Can I make this French toast ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the custard mixture the night before can save you time in the morning. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. While French toast tastes best when cooked fresh, leftovers can be reheated effectively. Use a toaster to restore the crisp edges, or warm the slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for a just-made taste. If you’re planning for a crowd, you can also cook the French toast in advance and reheat it in the oven for serving.
2. What type of bread works best for Mccormick French Toast?
The bread you choose can make or break your French toast. Thick, sturdy options like brioche, challah, or Texas toast are perfect because they soak up the custard beautifully without turning mushy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try artisanal bread like cinnamon swirl or sourdough for added flavor. Always use slightly stale bread for the best results, or dry out fresh slices in the oven to mimic the texture of day-old bread.
3. Can I freeze French toast?
Yes, French toast is an excellent candidate for freezing! After cooking, let the slices cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until firm. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer bag or airtight container. To reheat, pop the slices in a toaster for a quick and crispy option or warm them in the oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes. Freezing allows you to enjoy French toast anytime without the hassle of starting from scratch.
4. What can I use instead of sugar in the custard?
If you’re looking to cut back on refined sugar, there are plenty of alternatives that work just as well. Natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar add a hint of sweetness without overpowering the spices. For a low-calorie option, use stevia or monk fruit sweeteners. Taste the custard as you go to ensure the sweetness level matches your preference.
5. How do I prevent soggy French toast?
Soggy French toast can be a bummer, but it’s easy to avoid with a few tips. First, use slightly stale bread or dry out fresh bread in the oven. Don’t over-soak the bread in the custard—a quick 10-20 seconds per side is enough to saturate it without making it fall apart. Finally, ensure your pan is hot before adding the bread. A properly heated skillet creates a golden, crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and custardy. Pro tip: Wipe the pan clean between batches to prevent burnt bits from affecting the texture of the next slices.
Final Thoughts – Mccormick French Toast
McCormick French toast isn’t just breakfast—it’s an experience that transforms a simple morning into a celebration of flavor. Every bite brings together the warm, aromatic spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the creamy sweetness of vanilla, making it impossible to resist. The best part? You can tailor it to suit any occasion, whether it’s a casual weekday breakfast, a weekend brunch with friends, or a special treat for someone you love.
This recipe isn’t just about the deliciousness; it’s about the memories you create while making and sharing it. Imagine the laughter at the table as everyone adds their favorite toppings, the comforting scent of spices filling your home, and the joy of serving something that’s both easy and impressive. Whether you’re a kitchen pro or a beginner, this dish is forgiving, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser.
So, grab your skillet, your McCormick spices, and your imagination. Experiment with different toppings, try new bread types, or even add a creative twist like stuffed French toast with fruit or chocolate. Whatever you choose, this recipe guarantees one thing: it’ll leave you and your loved ones smiling and satisfied. Your family (or just you!) will thank you for making mornings extraordinary.