French Toast Bagels are a fun twist on breakfast! They mix the classic flavors of French toast with the chewy goodness of bagels. Yum!
Picture this: crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and topped with syrup. It’s like having a breakfast party in your mouth! I love adding a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Day-old bagels are ideal as they soak up liquid better without falling apart. Fresh bagels can work, but they’ll absorb less. You can also use whole grain or flavored bagels for a twist on taste!
Eggs: Large eggs are perfect for the custard base. If you’re avoiding eggs, consider using a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) to create a similar texture.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness, but feel free to swap with almond, oat, or soy milk for a dairy-free option. Just remember that coconut milk can add a strong flavor!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used for sweetness. Brown sugar or honey can substitute for a different flavor profile. If you’re cutting down on sugar, leave it out or use a sugar alternative.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon gives warmth and flavor. You can mix it up with pumpkin spice or nutmeg for a different but equally delicious taste!
How Do I Ensure My Bagels Don’t Get Soggy While Soaking?
Getting the soak just right is key to making these French Toast Bagels! You want them saturated, but not overly soggy. Here are some tips to succeed:
- Use day-old bagels; they’re firmer and hold up better.
- Dip each half for only 15-20 seconds. A quick soak is perfect for absorption.
- Gently press the bagel into the egg mixture to help it soak in without losing structural integrity.
If you notice any dripping, it’s a sign you’ve soaked them just enough! Once cooked, they should be crispy on the outside and soft inside, creating a delightful texture.
How to Make Delicious French Toast Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast Bagels:
- 4 plain bagels (preferably day-old)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
For Topping:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Optional: chopped nuts or oats (for sprinkling)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus another 15-20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at around 30 minutes to whip up these delightful French Toast Bagels, perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Bagels:
Begin by slicing each bagel horizontally into two halves. You want them to look like large sandwich slices, which will make it easier to soak and cook them evenly.
2. Whisk the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow bowl, combine the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s well blended. This mixture will coat the bagels and give them that classic French toast flavor!
3. Heat the Skillet:
Put a large skillet or griddle on medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter to melt. Wait until the butter is bubbly and hot before moving on to the next step.
4. Soak the Bagel Halves:
Take each bagel half and dip it into the egg mixture. Let it soak for about 15-20 seconds on each side. This ensures they absorb enough liquid but don’t get too soggy.
5. Cook the Bagels:
Now it’s time to cook! Place the soaked bagel halves on the hot skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
6. Add Optional Toppings:
If you want to add a little crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or oats on top of the bagels while they cook for an added texture and visual appeal.
7. Drain Excess Butter:
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 extra butter, keeping them from getting too greasy.
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar:
Lightly dust your crispy bagels with powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your French Toast Bagels warm, accompanied by maple syrup for drizzling or dipping. Enjoy every bite of your delightful creation!
These French Toast Bagels are a delightful spin on a classic breakfast dish, perfect for enjoying with family and friends. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels are traditional, you can also use whole grain, cinnamon raisin, or eveneverything bagels for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that flavored bagels may alter the overall taste of your dish.
What If I Don’t Have Whole Milk?
No worries! You can substitute whole milk with any other milk alternative you prefer, such as almond milk, oat milk, or even a blend of milk and cream for extra richness. Just make sure it’s unsweetened and unflavored for the best results.
Can I Make These Bagels Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the egg mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just whisk again before using and soak the bagels. However, it’s best to cook them fresh for a crispy texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in a toaster, oven, or skillet to regain their crispy texture before serving.
