Valentines Breakfast Cinnamon French Toast

Name: Valentines Breakfast Cinnamon French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 4 slices of day-old bread; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 tablespoons butter; Maple syrup for serving; Fresh strawberries for topping

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore starting my Valentine's Day with a warm and cozy breakfast, and nothing says love quite like Cinnamon French Toast. I love how the rich cinnamon flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of maple syrup and fresh strawberries. This recipe not only fills the kitchen with an enticing aroma but also creates a delightful experience for me and my loved ones. The best part? It only takes about 30 minutes to whip up, making it perfect for a leisurely morning together on a special day.

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:07:23.221Z

Trying new things in the kitchen is always an adventure for me, and this Cinnamon French Toast recipe has become a beloved tradition. I discovered that using day-old bread gives a much better texture, allowing it to soak up the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. This little trick really elevates the dish and ensures each bite is packed with flavor!

As I prepared this special breakfast, I learned that the choice of spices can make a world of difference. Mixing a touch of nutmeg with the cinnamon creates a warm flavor profile that’s perfect for celebrating love. Topping it off with a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds that extra festive touch that makes each plate a feast for the eyes and taste buds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The delightful aroma of cinnamon fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere.
A delicious way to show love with a personal breakfast for your special someone.
Easily customizable with your favorite toppings, making it a versatile recipe.

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of bread is crucial for achieving the perfect Cinnamon French Toast texture. Day-old bread works wonderfully because it is slightly stale, allowing it to absorb the egg mixture without falling apart. A thicker slice, like brioche or challah, offers a rich flavor and a custardy center after cooking. Avoid using fresh bread as it tends to become mushy and won’t provide that delightful golden crust that contrasts with the soft interior.

Using full-fat milk in the egg mixture adds creaminess, which enhances the overall richness of the dish. If you're looking for a lighter version, almond or oat milk can be swapped in without sacrificing too much flavor. However, be cautious with plant-based alternatives that may alter the consistency of the custard—just ensure they are unsweetened to maintain balance with the sugar from the maple syrup.

Mastering the Cooking Process

To achieve golden-brown French toast, make sure your skillet or non-stick pan is preheated adequately over medium heat. If it’s not hot enough, the toast will absorb oil excessively and become greasy rather than crisp. Conversely, if the pan is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through. A good test is to sprinkle a drop of water in the pan; it should sizzle immediately.

While cooking, avoid overcrowding the pan since this will cause the temperature to drop and lead to uneven cooking. If you’re preparing multiple servings, it’s better to use two pans or keep the finished French toast warm in an oven set to 200°F (93°C) while you finish cooking the rest. This keeps everything warm and ready to serve without compromising texture.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a romantic breakfast that satisfies.

Ingredients

4 slices of day-old bread
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons butter
Maple syrup for serving
Fresh strawberries for topping

Feel free to swap in your favorite toppings like whipped cream or different fruits!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect French toast.

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.

Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Allow it to soak for a few minutes.

Cook the French Toast

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the soaked bread slices and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Serve with Toppings

Serve the French toast hot, drizzled with maple syrup and topped with fresh strawberries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Enjoy your delicious creation while making special memories!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture for a refreshing twist.

Serving and Plating Ideas

To elevate your presentation, consider garnishing the French toast with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, which adds a touch of elegance and sweetness. You can also serve alongside whipped cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a contrasting creaminess that brightens the dish. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness that complements the strawberries beautifully.

For a decadent twist, try adding a layer of cream cheese or mascarpone between the slices before dipping them in the egg mixture. This will create a rich center, reminiscent of a stuffed French toast while keeping the outside delightfully crisp. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or a dusting of cocoa powder can make it even more indulgent.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage

If you’d like to prepare portions ahead of time, consider making the egg mixture the night before. You can refrigerate it so that in the morning, all you need to do is soak and cook the bread. Alternatively, you can fully cook the French toast ahead of time and freeze individual pieces. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in a toaster or oven, which will help restore some of the original crispness.

Leftover French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it back in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through, ensuring you revive that golden exterior. Just keep in mind that the texture may not be quite as perfect as when freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old?

Yes, but fresh bread may become too soggy. Slightly toasting it can help.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just replace the milk with a non-dairy milk option like almond or oat milk.

→ What toppings can I use?

You can use any toppings you like! Fresh fruits, whipped cream, or even a nutty spread.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet.