These French Toast Bagels are a fun twist on a breakfast classic! Imagine warm, toasty bagels coated in a sweet, eggy mixture and cooked to perfection. Yum!
I love how they’re quick to make—just dip, cook, and enjoy! They’re great with syrup or fresh fruit. Perfect for lazy mornings when you want something special without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Using plain bagels is important for this dish. You can try flavored bagels like cinnamon raisin for a twist, but keep in mind that it may change the flavor profile.
Eggs: Fresh eggs are a must for the custardy mixture. If you’re vegan or allergic, use a concoction of flaxseed meal (1 tbsp) and water (2.5 tbsp) per egg as a substitute.
Whole Milk and Heavy Cream: This combo gives rich creaminess, but you can swap it with almond or coconut milk for a lighter version. Just check that you are using unsweetened varieties!
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is essential for flavor. If you want to mix things up, try nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a different seasonal flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is used for cooking, but you can choose coconut oil for a dairy-free option, which will also add a nice flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Bagels Don’t Get Soggy?
It’s important to dip the bagel halves without over-soaking them. Here’s how:
- Whisk your egg mix until it’s well combined, so it clings nicely.
- Quickly dip each bagel half in the mixture, turning it just to coat, and then lift it out. A second or two is enough; you don’t want it soaked, just well-coated.
- Let any excess mixture drip off before placing it in the skillet.
This method helps keep your bagels crispy on the outside while the inside stays soft and flavorful. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Delicious French Toast Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast Bagels:
- 4 plain bagels, sliced in half
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking)
For the Toppings:
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Crushed graham crackers or streusel topping (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15-20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have your French Toast Bagels ready in about 30 minutes, making them a quick and tasty option for breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, crack the 3 large eggs and whisk them together. Add in 1/2 cup of whole milk, 1/4 cup of heavy cream, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth.
2. Preheat the Skillet:
While you’re mixing, place a large skillet or griddle on the stove over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to melt. Keep an eye on it to ensure the butter doesn’t burn!
3. Coat the Bagel Halves:
Take each bagel half and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly. Be careful not to soak them for too long; just a quick dip will do to keep them from getting soggy.
4. Cook the Bagels:
Once your skillet is ready, place the coated bagel halves cut-side down in the skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side. If you need to, add a little more butter to the skillet for the second batch!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After cooking, place your French Toast Bagels on a serving plate. Dust them with powdered sugar and sprinkle crushed graham crackers or streusel topping on top if you like some extra sweetness and crunch. Finally, serve them warm with maple syrup on the side for drizzling.
Enjoy your crispy, rich, and sweet French Toast Bagels! They make for a perfect start to any day!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Flavored Bagels?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bagels will add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Flavored bagels, like cinnamon raisin, can give a delightful twist to the dish, just keep in mind that the sweetness might vary.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French Toast Bagels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or warm them in a skillet for a few minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with almond milk or coconut milk. For the butter, use a dairy-free alternative. Just be sure to choose unsweetened varieties for a balanced flavor.
What Can I Use Instead of Granulated Sugar?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, feel free to substitute granulated sugar with maple syrup, honey, or a sugar substitute like stevia. Just remember that liquid sweeteners may alter the consistency slightly, so adjust accordingly!
