French Toast Waffles

Name: French Toast Waffles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf challah bread (thickly sliced); 1 cup milk (2% or any preferred variety); 8 large eggs; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the waffle iron); Maple syrup and powdered sugar (for topping)

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One of my fondest childhood memories is waking up to the smell of cinnamon and vanilla wafting from the kitchen. My mom would make French toast on special weekend mornings, serving it with a drizzle of maple syrup and fresh fruit. As I grew older and started experimenting in the kitchen, I discovered a fun twist on this classic breakfast—French Toast Waffles.

If you love the warm, comforting flavors of French toast but crave the crispy edges of waffles, this recipe is for you. It’s incredibly easy, requires just a few ingredients, and is perfect for beginner cooks. Whether you’re making brunch for family or a quick weekend treat, these waffles will become your new go-to.

Why This Recipe is Special

French Toast Waffles combine the best of two breakfast favorites—soft, custard-soaked bread meets the golden, crispy texture of waffles. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Beginner-Friendly – No fancy techniques or equipment required, just a waffle iron and a few pantry staples.
Quick and Convenient – Takes about 20 minutes from start to finish.
Customizable – Works with different bread types and toppings, so you can switch it up every time.

Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and freeze for quick, homemade breakfasts.

Ingredients and Preparation

This recipe calls for simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Each one plays an important role in flavor and texture.

Bread – Thick-cut challah, brioche, or French bread works best, as they absorb the custard without falling apart. Stale bread is even better because it soaks up more liquid. You can also use cinnamon swirl bread for extra flavor.

Eggs – The key to a rich and creamy custard that coats the bread beautifully.
Milk – Whole milk gives the best texture, but almond, oat, or coconut milk are great dairy-free alternatives.
Cinnamon & Vanilla Extract – These add warmth and depth of flavor. Try adding nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or cardamom for a twist.

Sugar – A small amount enhances sweetness, but you can swap it for honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a healthier option.

Optional Additions

A pinch of salt to balance flavors.
A splash of orange zest for a fresh citrus note.

A tablespoon of melted butter for extra richness in the custard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and ensures golden, crispy waffles.

Step 2: Slice your bread into 1-inch thick pieces. If the bread is too thin, it may become soggy; if too thick, it won’t cook through properly.

Step 3: In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar. Make sure everything is well combined to create a smooth custard.

Step 4: Dip each bread slice into the mixture, turning to coat evenly. Let the bread soak for a few seconds, but don’t let it become too mushy.

Step 5: Place the soaked bread onto the hot waffle iron and close the lid. Cook for 4-6 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. If your waffle iron’s timer goes off and they’re not crisp yet, let them cook a little longer.

Step 6: Carefully remove the waffles and place them on a wire rack to prevent sogginess. Repeat with the remaining slices.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Bread Choice Matters – Soft sandwich bread will become too soggy, so stick with sturdy, thick-cut breads like challah, brioche, or Texas toast.
Control the Soak Time – If the bread is very fresh, only dip it briefly. If it’s stale, let it soak for an extra second or two.

Waffle Iron Temperature – A medium-high setting works best. Too low, and your waffles will be soggy; too high, and they might burn before the inside is cooked.
Crispy Waffles Hack – Let the cooked waffles rest on a wire rack instead of stacking them. This keeps them crispy instead of steaming each other.

Serving Suggestions

The best part about French Toast Waffles? The toppings! Here are some ideas to take your waffles to the next level:

Classic – Maple syrup and powdered sugar.
Fruit Lovers – Fresh berries, banana slices, or homemade strawberry or raspberry sauce.
Nutty & Crunchy – Chopped pecans, almonds, or a drizzle of peanut butter.

Dessert-Style – Whipped cream, caramel sauce, or chocolate chips.

Make It a Full Breakfast

Serve these waffles with:

Crispy bacon or sausage for a savory contrast.

Greek yogurt for added protein.
A fruit smoothie for a refreshing side.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (or want to meal prep), these waffles store beautifully.

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze – Let waffles cool completely, then store them in a zip-top freezer bag with parchment paper between each. They’ll last up to 2 months.
Reheat – Pop them in the toaster for a crispy texture or microwave them for a soft, warm waffle.

French Toast Waffles are a fantastic way to make breakfast feel special with minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, these waffles are sure to impress.

Have you tried this recipe? What toppings did you use? Share your experience in the comments below—I’d love to hear how it turned out!

FAQ About French Toast Waffles

Can I make French Toast Waffles without a waffle iron?

Yes! If you don’t have a waffle iron, you can still make classic French toast using a griddle or frying pan. Simply cook the soaked bread slices over medium heat until golden brown on both sides.

How do I prevent my waffles from turning out soggy?

Make sure your waffle iron is fully preheated before adding the soaked bread. Also, let the waffles rest on a wire rack instead of stacking them to maintain crispiness.

What type of bread works best for French Toast Waffles?

Thick, sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or French bread is ideal because it absorbs the custard without falling apart. Slightly stale bread works even better as it soaks up more liquid without getting too soggy.

Can I make these waffles dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk. You can also use a dairy-free butter alternative for greasing the waffle iron.

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