When the weekend rolls around, there’s nothing quite like starting the day with a delightful breakfast that feels like an indulgent treat. That’s exactly what you get with this Disneyland-inspired Cornflake Crusted French Toast. Picture this: the moment you take a bite, the sweet crunch of cornflakes dances on your palate, giving way to the soft, fluffy warmth of the bread inside. It’s a magical combination that transforms your kitchen into a cozy café, evoking memories of fun-filled family outings.
What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal choice for leisurely brunches or special occasions. Whether you’re surprising your loved ones or simply enjoying a quiet morning at home, this French toast is sure to win over everyone at the table. So grab your ingredients, and let’s bring some of that Disney magic into your home!
Why is Cornflake Crusted French Toast irresistible?
Crunchy Delight: The unique cornflake coating offers a delightful crunch, elevating your classic French toast to new heights.
Quick and Easy: With only a 25-minute prep time, it’s perfect for busy mornings or impromptu brunches with friends.
Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, ensuring smiles at breakfast tables, making it a hit for family gatherings.
Versatile Toppings: Dress it up with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup—it’s all about personal flair!
Magical Vibes: Each bite is a nostalgic reminder of fun days at Disneyland, making every breakfast feel special.
Impressive Presentation: The golden-brown appearance and sugar dusting add a gourmet touch that’ll impress your guests.
Cornflake Crusted French Toast Ingredients
For the French Toast
• Eggs – Provides structure and richness; use large eggs for best results.
• Milk – Adds moisture; can be substituted with any non-dairy milk for lactose-free options.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; for a more robust taste, choose pure extract.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; adjust based on your preference.
• Salt – Balances sweetness; essential in small amounts.
• Thick Bread (Brioche/Challah) – Forms the base; thick slices soak better for a delightful texture.
For the Crunchy Coating
• Cornflakes – Creates the crunchy exterior; crush to achieve your desired texture.
• All-Purpose Flour – Binds with cornflakes for coating; optional if you need a gluten-free option.
For Garnishing
• Powdered Sugar – Optional for dusting, enhancing both presentation and sweetness.
• Maple Syrup – A classic serving accompaniment providing delicious sweetness.
• Fresh Berries – Optional garnish for added color and a burst of flavor.
How to Make Cornflake Crusted French Toast
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Whisk Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine the large eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well blended. The mixture should be smooth and creamy for optimal flavor infusion.
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Crush Cornflakes: Place the cornflakes in a zip-top bag and crush them into manageable pieces. Transfer the crushed cornflakes to a shallow dish, creating a crunchy coating for your toast.
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Add Flour: Mix the crushed cornflakes with all-purpose flour in the same dish. This helps bind the coating, providing an extra layer of crunch.
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Soak Bread: Dip each thick slice of brioche or challah into the egg mixture, ensuring to soak them thoroughly on both sides. The bread should be well-coated for the best result.
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Coat with Cornflakes: Press the soaked slices firmly into the cornflake mixture until they are well coated. This is where the magic of crunch begins!
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Heat Pan: Preheat your skillet over medium heat, adding a generous pat of butter or a splash of oil to keep the toast from sticking.
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Cook Slices: Fry each slice of French toast for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. You want a perfectly toasted, crunchy exterior.
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Plate the French Toast: Transfer the golden-brown slices to serving plates, ready to be dressed up with toppings.
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Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar on top of your French toast for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
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Add Toppings: Serve your cornflake crusted French toast with a drizzle of maple syrup and a handful of fresh berries for a delightful finish.
Optional: Add a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cornflake Crusted French Toast?
Spring mornings call for a delightful spread that perfectly complements this sweet, crunchy breakfast treat, creating a memorable dining experience.
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Crispy Bacon: Its salty, savory flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the French toast, adding texture and contrast to each bite.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens the plate, balancing the richness of the French toast while providing a pop of color.
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Maple Butter: A drizzle of creamy maple butter adds a touch of decadence, enhancing the natural sweetness of the Cornflake Crusted French Toast beautifully.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fresh berries, this light and creamy addition offers a nutritious touch, making your brunch feel balanced and satisfying.
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Coffee or Chai Latte: A warm beverage enhances the cozy atmosphere and completes your brunch setup, fostering those inviting morning conversations.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream lends a luxurious finish, making every slice feel like an indulgence and perfecting the brunch experience.
Cornflake Crusted French Toast Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful breakfast dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free cornflakes for a tasty alternative.
- Egg-Free: Replace eggs with a mixture of mashed banana and almond milk or a flaxseed meal blend for a plant-based option.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Add a dash of nutmeg or extra cinnamon to the egg mixture for a comforting, aromatic twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed nuts (like almonds or pecans) into the cornflake coating for added texture and flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips over the egg-soaked bread before coating with cornflakes for a sweet surprise.
- Savory Spin: Swap maple syrup for a drizzle of honey and serve with a side of crispy bacon for a sweet-savory combination.
- Berry Bliss: Mix fresh berries into the egg mixture for bursts of flavor throughout the toast.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for an unexpected and gentle heat that elevates the sweetness.
Make Ahead Options
These Cornflake Crusted French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can whisk the egg mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to save time on busy mornings. Additionally, soak the bread slices and coat them with the cornflake mixture a few hours in advance; just remember to keep them covered to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your skillet and fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious crunch and warm fluffiness with minimal morning effort, making breakfast feel like a celebratory treat any day of the week!
Expert Tips for Cornflake Crusted French Toast
- Skillet Temperature: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the bread to avoid sogginess. A properly heated pan promotes a crispy exterior.
- Batch Cooking: Fry your French toast in smaller batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of that much-desired crunch from the cornflakes.
- Mix Resting Time: Let the egg mixture sit for a few minutes before soaking the bread. This helps meld the flavors, enhancing your Cornflake Crusted French Toast’s taste.
- Use Fresh Bread: Opt for day-old thick bread, like brioche or challah. It soaks up the egg mixture better, leading to a fluffier inside.
- Crunch Coating: Don’t skimp on the cornflake coating! The more thoroughly you press the bread into the mixture, the crunchier your final result will be.
Storage Tips for Cornflake Crusted French Toast
- Fridge: Store leftover Cornflake Crusted French Toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat each slice in a skillet for the best texture.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked slices. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a zip-top bag, where they can last up to 2 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This helps maintain the crunchiness.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the egg mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for a few hours, making breakfast assembly faster on busy mornings.
Cornflake Crusted French Toast Recipe FAQs
What kind of bread is best for Cornflake Crusted French Toast?
For the best results, I recommend using thick slices of brioche or challah. These breads are wonderfully soft and absorb the egg mixture beautifully, resulting in a light, fluffy interior that contrasts perfectly with the crunchy cornflake coating.
How should I store leftovers of Cornflake Crusted French Toast?
Store any leftover Cornflake Crusted French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I suggest using a skillet as it helps restore that lovely crunch. Simply heat the skillet over medium heat and warm each slice for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until heated through.
Can I freeze Cornflake Crusted French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the cooked slices flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for a crispy texture.
What can I do if my cornflake coating isn’t sticking to the bread?
If you find the cornflake coating isn’t sticking well, try soaking the bread a little longer in the egg mixture or pressing it more firmly into the crushed cornflakes. Also, ensure you are using enough egg mixture as a binding agent. A light dusting of flour mixed with the cornflakes can provide added grip, too!
Are there any dietary considerations for Cornflake Crusted French Toast?
Indeed! If you or your loved ones have dietary restrictions, you can make this dish gluten-free by opting for gluten-free cornflakes and flour. You can also easily substitute dairy products with non-dairy milk alternatives. Always check the ingredients if allergies are a concern, especially with commercial cornflakes, as some may contain allergens.
Can I prepare the egg mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the egg mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Just give it a good whisk before using it, as the ingredients may separate. This little trick can be a huge time-saver for busy mornings!
Cornflake Crusted French Toast: A Magical Breakfast Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, combine the large eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well blended.
- Crush Cornflakes: Place the cornflakes in a zip-top bag and crush them into manageable pieces.
- Add Flour: Mix the crushed cornflakes with all-purpose flour in the same dish.
- Soak Bread: Dip each thick slice of brioche or challah into the egg mixture, ensuring to soak them thoroughly on both sides.
- Coat with Cornflakes: Press the soaked slices firmly into the cornflake mixture until they are well coated.
- Heat Pan: Preheat your skillet over medium heat, adding a generous pat of butter or a splash of oil.
- Cook Slices: Fry each slice of French toast for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Plate the French Toast: Transfer the golden-brown slices to serving plates.
- Dust with Powdered Sugar: If desired, sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar on top.
- Add Toppings: Serve your cornflake crusted French toast with a drizzle of maple syrup and fresh berries.