The Ultimate McCormick French Toast Recipe: Easy & Delicious

Last updated on March 7, 2025

What if I told you that the secret to restaurant-style French toast is hiding in your spice cabinet?

That’s right, just a pinch of McCormick® Ground Cinnamon and a splash of McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract can turn an ordinary breakfast into a masterpiece. Whether you love your French toast thick and fluffy, crispy and caramelized, or loaded with cinnamon spice, the right combination of flavors makes all the difference.

French toast is just one of many classic French-inspired breakfasts loved worldwide. If you’re a fan of morning treats with a French twist, explore our French Breakfast Recipes for more delicious ideas!

In this guide, we’ll uncover how to make the best McCormick French toast, covering everything from the perfect bread to pro cooking techniques. You’ll discover mouthwatering variations, expert tips, and answers to common questions about achieving that irresistible golden-brown perfection.

Ready to take your breakfast game to the next level? Let’s dive in!

Introduction to McCormick French Toast

The Appeal of French Toast

Few breakfasts are as satisfying as a plate of warm, buttery French toast. Whether served with a drizzle of maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar, this beloved dish has been a morning favorite for centuries. The best part? It’s shockingly simple to make at home!

French toast has been around for ages, dating back to ancient times when people found a clever way to use stale bread by soaking it in a milk-and-egg mixture before frying it to perfection. Today, it’s an irresistible comfort food enjoyed around the world.

McCormick’s Influence on Classic Recipes

What sets McCormick French toast apart? Flavor. McCormick’s high-quality spices and extracts take a traditional French toast recipe and elevate it with rich vanilla, warm cinnamon, and aromatic nutmeg. Instead of a plain egg mixture, adding McCormick® Ground Cinnamon and McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract gives every bite a deeper, more indulgent taste.

McCormick’s spices aren’t just about enhancing flavor; they also bring balance. The right combination of cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg creates a blend of sweetness and warmth that makes French toast taste like a restaurant-quality dish right from your kitchen.

And the best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients, just a few pantry staples and the magic of McCormick spices.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect French Toast

Creating the perfect McCormick French toast starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful balance of flavor and texture.

Bread Selection

Choosing the appropriate bread is the foundation of exceptional French toast. Opt for varieties that are sturdy and can absorb the egg mixture without falling apart. Ideal choices include:

• Brioche: This rich, buttery bread offers a tender crumb, resulting in a luscious French toast.
• Challah: Slightly sweet and airy, challah provides a light texture with a subtle sweetness.
• Sourdough: Its firm structure and tangy flavor add a unique twist to traditional French toast.

Using day-old or slightly stale bread is beneficial, as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively, preventing a soggy outcome. If fresh bread is all you have, lightly toasting it can help achieve the desired texture.

Egg and Dairy Mixture

The egg and dairy mixture, or custard, is pivotal in imparting flavor and moisture to the bread. Here’s how to craft the perfect blend:

• Eggs: Acting as the base, eggs provide structure and richness. For a standard batch, one large egg per 1/4 cup of dairy is a reliable ratio.
• Milk: Whole milk is commonly used, offering a balance between richness and moisture. For a more decadent version, consider half-and-half or heavy cream. Alternatively, dairy-free options like almond or soy milk work well for those with dietary restrictions.

Thoroughly whisk the eggs and milk to ensure a smooth, cohesive mixture that will evenly coat the bread.

McCormick Spices and Extracts

To elevate your French toast, incorporating high-quality spices and extracts is essential. McCormick offers a range of products that enhance the dish’s flavor profile:

• McCormick® All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of this extract infuses the custard with a sweet, aromatic depth, complementing the bread’s flavor.
• McCormick® Ground Cinnamon: Adding half a teaspoon to the mixture introduces a warm, spicy note that pairs beautifully with the vanilla.
• McCormick® Ground Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg can provide a subtle, earthy undertone, enriching the overall taste.

Incorporating these spices not only enhances flavor but also adds an inviting aroma, making your McCormick French toast a sensory delight.

Classic McCormick French Toast Recipe

Now that we’ve covered the essential ingredients, let’s dive into crafting the classic McCormick French toast. This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

Ingredients List

Gather the following components:

• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup milk (whole, half-and-half, or your preferred alternative)
• 1 teaspoon McCormick® All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract
• 1/2 teaspoon McCormick® Ground Cinnamon
• 4 slices of bread (brioche, challah, or sourdough recommended)
• Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the Custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together the egg, milk, McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract, and McCormick® Ground Cinnamon until well combined.
2. Dip the Bread: Place each bread slice into the mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. Ensure the bread absorbs the custard but doesn’t become overly saturated.
3. Preheat the Pan: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface evenly.
4. Cook the Bread: Place the soaked bread slices onto the preheated pan. Cook until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
5. Serve Immediately: Once cooked, transfer the French toast to a plate and serve with your preferred toppings.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your McCormick French toast with a variety of toppings and accompaniments:

• Classic Maple Syrup: A timeless choice that adds sweetness and moisture.
• Fresh Fruits: Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or bananas introduce a refreshing contrast.
• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Whipped Cream: For added indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dish.
• Easy Spiced Syrup: Combine 1 cup of pancake syrup with 1 teaspoon of McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract and 1/4 teaspoon of McCormick® Ground Cinnamon. Warm the mixture and drizzle over the French toast for a spiced twist.

Variations and Enhancements

Exploring different variations can elevate your McCormick French toast experience. By incorporating unique flavors and techniques, you can transform this classic dish into a culinary delight.

Cinnamon French Toast

Adding a generous amount of McCormick® Ground Cinnamon to your custard mixture infuses the French toast with a warm, spicy aroma. Here’s how to create this delightful variation:

1. Prepare the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and 1-2 teaspoons of McCormick® Ground Cinnamon.
2. Soak the Bread: Dip thick slices of your chosen bread into the mixture, ensuring they absorb the cinnamon-infused custard.
3. Cook to Perfection: Fry the soaked bread on a preheated griddle until golden brown on both sides.

For an extra touch, sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar blend over the finished toast or drizzle with a cinnamon-infused syrup.

Stuffed French Toast

Elevate your breakfast by incorporating fillings such as cream cheese, fruit preserves, or Nutella. Follow these steps to create delectable stuffed French toast:

1. Prepare the Filling: Mix softened cream cheese with a tablespoon of McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract and a bit of powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread the filling between two slices of bread, pressing them together gently.
3. Dip and Cook: Submerge the sandwich in the egg mixture, then cook on a greased skillet until golden and heated through.

This method results in a creamy, flavorful center that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior.

Overnight Baked French Toast

For a convenient and crowd-pleasing option, consider preparing an overnight baked French toast casserole:

1. Layer the Bread: Arrange slices of bread in a greased baking dish.
2. Pour the Custard: Combine eggs, milk, McCormick® Ground Cinnamon, and McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract, then pour over the bread, ensuring even coverage.
3. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the flavors.
4. Bake and Serve: In the morning, bake the casserole until puffed and golden.

This make-ahead method is perfect for hosting brunch or enjoying a leisurely weekend breakfast.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect French Toast

Mastering the art of McCormick French toast involves attention to detail and technique. Here are some essential tips to ensure your French toast turns out perfectly every time.

Choosing the Right Bread

Selecting the appropriate bread is crucial. Opt for varieties like brioche, challah, or sourdough, which offer the right balance of texture and flavor. Using slightly stale bread helps prevent sogginess, as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.

Optimal Soaking Time

Allowing the bread to soak sufficiently ensures a custardy interior. Thick slices should be immersed in the egg mixture for at least 5-10 minutes, enabling the custard to penetrate deeply. Avoid quick dips, as they can lead to underwhelming results.

Cooking Techniques

Achieving a golden, crispy exterior with a tender inside requires proper heat management:

• Preheat the Pan: Ensure your skillet or griddle is preheated over medium heat before adding the bread.
• Use Butter or Oil: A combination of butter and oil can prevent burning and sticking.
• Monitor the Heat: Cook the bread until each side is golden brown, adjusting the heat as necessary to prevent overcooking or undercooking.

By following these guidelines, your McCormick French toast will consistently impress with its delightful texture and rich flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When making McCormick French toast, you might have a few questions about how to get the best results. Here are answers to some of the most common queries.

Why does restaurant French toast taste so good?

Ever wonder why your favorite brunch spot serves up perfectly crispy, golden-brown French toast with a soft, custardy center? The secret lies in a few key techniques:

• High-quality ingredients – Many restaurants use McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract and McCormick® Ground Cinnamon to enhance the flavor profile.
• Thick-cut bread – They often use brioche or challah, which soak up the custard without falling apart.
• Proper cooking methods – Instead of rushing, restaurants cook French toast over medium heat with butter and oil, ensuring even caramelization.
• Longer soaking time – Letting the bread absorb the egg mixture completely before cooking makes all the difference.

What is one common mistake when preparing French toast?

One of the biggest mistakes? Not soaking the bread long enough!

Dipping bread too quickly doesn’t allow it to absorb the flavors of McCormick French toast properly. Instead, let it sit in the custard for at least 5–10 seconds per side for thicker slices. This step ensures a creamy texture inside and a crisp, golden crust outside.

Another mistake? Cooking at the wrong temperature. Too high, and the outside burns before the inside is fully cooked. Too low, and you won’t get that crispy, caramelized finish. Stick to medium heat for perfectly cooked French toast.

What is the trick to making the best French toast?

Want to take your McCormick French toast to the next level? Here are three simple tricks:

1. Use a mix of dairy – A blend of whole milk and heavy cream creates a luxurious custard that coats the bread beautifully.
2. Let the toast rest after cooking – Allowing your French toast to sit for a minute before serving helps the custard set and prevents sogginess.
3. Add a pinch of salt – Salt enhances the sweet flavors and balances the richness of the dish.

What is the difference between French toast and cinnamon French toast?

Both versions are delicious, but cinnamon French toast takes the spice level up a notch. Instead of just a hint of cinnamon, this version uses McCormick® Ground Cinnamon in both the custard and as a dusting on top.

Regular French toast has a subtle vanilla flavor, while cinnamon French toast is richer and more aromatic. You can also top it with cinnamon-sugar syrup for an extra burst of warm spice!

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Embracing McCormick in Your French Toast Recipes

From the perfect custard to the best spices, making McCormick French toast is all about flavor and technique. Whether you prefer the classic version, a cinnamon-infused twist, or a stuffed variation, the secret lies in using high-quality McCormick spices and extracts.

With just a few pantry staples, you can recreate restaurant-quality French toast right in your kitchen. Plus, by experimenting with McCormick® Ground Cinnamon, McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract, and McCormick® Ground Nutmeg, you can customize your French toast to suit your taste.

Invitation to Share Experiences

Now that you’ve mastered McCormick French toast, why not put your skills to the test? Try out the different variations, experiment with flavors, and share your favorite tips!

Have a special trick for the crispiest French toast? Let us know in the comments or tag us on social media with your best McCormick French toast creations. We’d love to see how you make this classic breakfast your own!