There is something deeply nostalgic about waking up to the smell of golden-browned bread sizzling on a pan. For me, French toast always meant a slow Sunday morning at my grandmother’s house, where breakfast was an event and not just a meal. This Dairy-Free French Toast brings back all of those sweet memories, but with a thoughtful twist for those who avoid dairy. Traditionally made with milk and butter, this version swaps in plant-based ingredients without sacrificing the rich, comforting flavors we all know and love.

Especially popular during festive seasons like Christmas mornings or Easter brunches, French toast has a way of making any meal feel like a special occasion. It is a dish that has traveled through time and culture, known as “pain perdu” or “lost bread” in France, originally created as a way to use up stale loaves. Now, this dairy-free spin makes it even more inclusive, ensuring that everyone at the table can savor each syrupy, crispy bite.

If you have fond memories of family breakfasts or cozy weekend rituals, this Dairy-Free French Toast will fit right into your traditions, warming your kitchen and your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Dairy-Free French Toast

• Made with simple pantry ingredients.
• Perfectly crisp outside and tender inside.
• Friendly for dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.
• Quick enough for busy mornings, special enough for holidays.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 4–6 slices thick bread (preferably a day or two old)
• Coconut oil or dairy-free butter, for frying

HOW TO MAKE Dairy-Free French Toast

Making Dairy-Free French Toast is a simple pleasure that transforms basic ingredients into something magical.

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the batter.
In a shallow bowl or wide dish, whisk together the almond milk, cornstarch, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. The cornstarch helps bind the batter and gives the toast its crisp, golden coating.

2. Dip the bread.
Take each slice of bread and dip it into the batter, letting it soak for a few seconds on each side. Be gentle; you want it fully coated but not so soaked that it falls apart.

3. Fry to perfection.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of coconut oil or dairy-free butter. Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet and cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.

4. Serve warm.
Stack your beautiful slices onto a plate and drizzle with more maple syrup. Add fresh fruits, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of coconut whipped cream if you are feeling fancy.

HELPFUL TIPS

• Use slightly stale bread for the best texture. Fresh bread can get too soggy.
• Adjust your heat as needed. Too high and your toast might burn before it cooks through.
• Stir the batter occasionally to prevent cornstarch from settling at the bottom.
• Try different dairy-free milks like oat or soy for subtle flavor changes.

DETAILS

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American, French
• Diet: Dairy-Free, Vegan

NOTES

You can experiment by adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping maple syrup for agave. Serve with toppings like sliced bananas, berries, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~220
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make Dairy-Free French Toast ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Reheat cooked slices in the oven for the best texture.

What’s the best bread for Dairy-Free French Toast?
Challah, brioche, or thick slices of country loaf work beautifully. Just make sure it is slightly stale.

Can I freeze Dairy-Free French Toast?
Absolutely. Cool the slices completely, freeze them in a single layer, then store them in freezer bags. Reheat in a toaster or oven.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Store leftover Dairy-Free French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or warm in a 350°F oven for about 5–7 minutes.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cozy breakfast ideas:

• Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
• Homemade Cinnamon Toast
• Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole
• Nutella Stuffed French Toast

CONCLUSION

There is something deeply comforting about starting your day with a plate of warm, golden French toast, and this Dairy-Free French Toast ensures that everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions, can enjoy that experience. Simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. So grab your favorite bread, whisk up your batter, and let your mornings be filled with sweet, cinnamon-scented memories.

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