Easy Gluten-Free French Toast
This easy gluten-free French toast is made with simple pantry staples but looks and tastes far fancier than it really is. Quick to whip up for breakfast or brunch, it’s the perfect way to turn everyday gluten-free bread into something special.
Making French Toast Gluten-Free
Golden, buttery, and dusted with cinnamon – this gluten-free French toast is the kind of breakfast that makes weekends feel special. Quick to whip up, it’s perfect for sleepovers, lazy mornings, or using up that last bit of the loaf of gluten-free bread (it’s expensive enough, right?!)
There’s something about French toast that kids (and adults!) love. We often make it when the kids have friends stay over, and the best part? Even the non-gluten-free crowd can’t tell it’s made with gluten-free bread.
Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free French Toast Recipe
- Gluten-free and family-friendly – Safe and delicious for everyone, even sleepover guests who aren’t gluten-free.
- Perfect for using up stale bread – Finally, a way to make sure those last slices don’t go to waste.
- Quick and easy – Just a handful of ingredients, ready in under 15 minutes.
- Freezer-friendly – Make extra, freeze, and reheat for stress-free mornings.
- Customizable – From classic maple syrup to fruit, yogurt, or chocolate drizzle – everyone can top it their way.
Ingredients to Make French Toast
You only need a few basics:
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk (dairy or dairy-free)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 – 7 slices gluten-free bread (slightly stale works best)
- Butter, for frying
Plus of course, whatever toppings you want to use!
Substitutions and Alternatives:
- Milk – any dairy-free milk (soy, almond, oat, coconut) works.
- Butter – swap for a dairy-free spread or coconut oil.
- Bread – thick-cut gluten-free bread (like brioche or farmhouse) makes it extra indulgent, but any loaf works.
- Flavour twist – add a pinch of nutmeg or some orange zest for a cozy café-style upgrade.
How To Make Gluten-Free French Toast Step by Step
Step 1: Whisk the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla in a shallow dish until as smooth as possible (the cinnamon floats, and that’s ok!).
Step 2: Dip the bread slices into the mixture, coating both sides evenly. Don’t soak too long – gluten-free bread softens very quickly.
Step 3: Heat a large pan over medium heat with a little butter. Cook each slice for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
Step 4: Serve warm with your favourite toppings.
Tips for the Best Gluten-Free French Toast
- Use slightly stale bread – it holds up better when dipped.
- Cook on medium heat – gluten-free bread can dry out quickly if the pan’s too hot.
- Thin bread? Quick dip – no need to soak.
- Make extra and freeze it – future you will thank you on busy mornings!
Make Ahead, Freezer & Meal Prep French Toast
French toast freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
- To Freeze Whole Slices: Cook, cool, then place slices on a tray to freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag with baking paper between slices.
- To Freeze Sticks: Cut slices into thirds after cooking, then freeze the same way. These are perfect for kids’ lunchboxes.
- Reheat from Frozen:
- Toaster – quick and crispy (great for whole slices).
- Oven/Air Fryer – 180°C/350°F for 5 to 8 minutes (great for sticks)
- Microwave – not a huge fan, as it creates a softer texture, but, hey it’s fine if you’re in a hurry.
- No need to thaw first.
Is French Toast Healthy?
French toast doesn’t have to be an ‘only for treats’ breakfast. When made at home with gluten-free bread, it’s actually a balanced meal: eggs for protein, milk for calcium, and carbs for energy.
Want to make it healthier though? You can try these easy swaps:
- Use wholegrain gluten-free bread for more fiber.
- Choose lighter or plant-based milk.
- Cook with less butter or a light spray of oil.
- Top with fresh fruit and Greek yogurt instead of syrup.
Of course, it’s all about balance – add fruit on the side and it’s a fun, nourishing breakfast that still feels special.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Maple syrup + powdered sugar.
- Kid-favorite: Fresh berries + chocolate drizzle.
- Fun twist: Peanut butter + sliced banana.
How To Store Gluten-Free French Toast
- Fridge: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in toaster or oven.
- Freezer: As above – freeze whole slices or sticks for up to 2 months.
FAQs About Gluten-Free French Toast
What’s the best gluten-free bread for French toast?
The best gluten-free bread for French toast is slightly stale, thicker-cut bread like gluten-free brioche, farmhouse, or artisan loaves. Regular sandwich-style bread works too, but avoid super soft slices as they can fall apart when dipped.
Can I bake gluten-free French toast instead of frying it?
Yes! Arrange dipped slices on a lined baking tray and bake at 180°C/350°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway. The result is a little lighter and perfect if you’re making a big batch.
How do I stop gluten-free French toast from going soggy?
Use stale bread, dip (don’t soak) each slice quickly in the egg mixture, and cook over medium heat until golden. Thin slices need less time in the custard than thicker ones.
Can gluten-free French toast be frozen?
Yes. Cook, cool, then freeze slices or sticks in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat straight from frozen in the toaster, oven, or air fryer.
Is French toast healthy?
French toast can be part of a balanced breakfast, especially when made at home. Use wholegrain gluten-free bread, top with fruit and yogurt, and go light on the syrup for a nourishing start to the day.
Can I make French toast without milk?
Yes, just swap the milk for a dairy-free option like soy, almond, oat, or coconut milk. The recipe works just as well, and you can even use water in a pinch (though I haven’t tried that myself).
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Soggy bread? Use slightly stale gluten-free bread and avoid over-soaking.
- Dry toast? Lower the heat so it cooks through without drying.
- Eggy flavour? Add a splash more vanilla or a sprinkle of sugar.
Gluten-Free Breakfast Recipes You’ll Love:
Gluten-Free French Toast Recipe
Equipment
- Pan or skillet
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 slices gluten-free bread, preferably stale
- butter, for frying
Instructions
- Whisk eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla in a shallow dish.
- Dip bread slices in the mixture, coating both sides.
- Heat butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook each slice for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until golden.
- Serve warm with toppings of choice.
Recipe Notes:
- Works best with slightly stale gluten-free bread.
- Can be frozen as whole slices or cut into sticks. Reheat from frozen in toaster, oven, or air fryer.
Nutrition Information:
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