Name: Crispy French Toast Waffles for an Irresistible Brunch Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 slices Brioche Bread (Substitution with challah works well too.); 1/2 cup Heavy Cream (Whole milk can be used for a lighter version.); 3 large Eggs (Always use fresh eggs for the best flavor.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Optional to omit if not preferred.); 1/4 teaspoon Nutmeg (Adjust to taste for personal preference.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Consider almond extract for a different flavor profile.); 1 teaspoon Maple Extract (Extra vanilla can substitute if maple extract is unavailable.); As needed Nonstick Cooking Spray (Essential for easy release from the waffle iron.)

Waking up on a lazy Sunday morning feels like magic, doesn’t it? The aroma of sweet, toasty bread and warm spices fills the air, promising a scrumptious start to the day. With my Crispy French Toast Waffles, we’ll bring together the classics of French toast and waffles in a breakfast dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also a surefire crowd-pleaser. Within just 30 minutes, you’ll have golden, crispy delights that are perfect for families or brunch gatherings. The best part? You only need a few simple ingredients and a waffle iron to create this luscious breakfast treat that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, what toppings will you choose to elevate your French toast waffles?

Why Are These Waffles So Irresistible?

Deliciously Unique: Imagine the crunchy exterior of a waffle combined with the sweet, rich flavor of French toast — that’s exactly what you get here!

Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and just 30 minutes of your time, breakfast becomes a breeze, perfect for those busy mornings.

Customizable: Whether you prefer maple syrup, fresh berries, or something more indulgent like Nutella, these waffles work beautifully with your favorite toppings.

Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love them, making them an ideal choice for family brunches or special occasions.

Waffle Iron Magic: All you need is a trusty waffle iron to transform simple brioche into these decadent breakfast delights! For more exciting ideas, don’t miss the twist on classic favorites like Avocado Toast Creative.

French Toast Waffles Ingredients

For the Batter
• Brioche Bread – Provides a rich texture due to its high butter content; substitution with challah works well too.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness and moisture to the batter; whole milk can be used for a lighter version.
• Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; always use fresh eggs for the best flavor.
• Cinnamon – Adds warm, aromatic flavor; optional to omit if not preferred.
• Nutmeg – Complements cinnamon and enriches flavor; adjust to taste for personal preference.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma; consider almond extract for a different flavor profile.
• Maple Extract – Provides a strong maple flavor; extra vanilla can substitute if maple extract is unavailable.
• Nonstick Cooking Spray – Prevents waffles from sticking during cooking; essential for easy release from the waffle iron.

Make your weekends brighter with these delightful French Toast Waffles that are sure to impress!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for French Toast Waffles

Step 1: Preheat the Waffle Iron
Begin by preheating your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure it’s adequately heated, as a hot iron is key to achieving crispy French toast waffles. This process usually takes about 5 minutes, so use this time to prepare your batter. A preheated iron helps to lock in that delicious golden-brown texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, maple extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Aim for a creamy consistency, and keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until everything is evenly blended. This aromatic batter adds richness and flavor to your French toast waffles, setting the stage for a delightful breakfast.

Step 3: Coat the Brioche
Take your brioche slices and dunk each one individually into the batter, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Allow the excess batter to drip off to avoid sogginess. This should take about 10 seconds per slice. The soaked brioche absorbs the flavors beautifully, making your French toast waffles irresistibly rich and tasty.

Step 4: Spray the Waffle Iron
Lightly spray the preheated waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray to prevent any sticking during cooking. Be generous yet careful to cover the plates evenly without oversaturating. This step is crucial for ensuring your French toast waffles release easily and maintain their crispiness, so don’t skip it!

Step 5: Cook the Waffles
Carefully place the soaked brioche slices into the hot waffle iron and close the lid. Cook them for approximately 3 to 4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on the waffles, as every waffle iron is different, and you want that perfect crunch on the outside while keeping the inside fluffy!

Step 6: Repeat the Process
Once the first batch is ready, remove the finished French toast waffles from the waffle iron and set them aside. Repeat the dunking and cooking process for the remaining slices of brioche, ensuring to respray the waffle iron if necessary. As the delightful aroma fills your kitchen, you’re just moments away from a delicious breakfast!

Step 7: Serve Warm
Serve your crispy French toast waffles warm with your choice of toppings. Whether you prefer a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh fruit, these waffles are sure to impress. Gather your family around the table and watch as they delight in this comforting, unique breakfast creation.

Make Ahead Options

Busy mornings just got a lot easier with these French Toast Waffles! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by whisking together the heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, maple extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply dunk your brioche slices into the prepared batter and cook in the waffle iron. Additionally, you can fully cook the French toast waffles and then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just reheat in a toaster or waffle iron before serving to regain that crispy texture, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for French Toast Waffles

Batter Consistency: Ensure your batter is well-mixed and smooth for even coating on the brioche. Lumpy batter can lead to uneven flavors.

Soaking Time: Avoid soaking the brioche slices for too long; just 10 seconds is perfect to keep them from becoming soggy while still absorbing flavor.

Waffle Iron Adjustment: Different waffle irons may yield different crispiness; check for golden brown as a guide and adjust cooking time as needed.

Bread Choices: Stick to brioche or challah for optimal texture. Avoid overly sweet or crumbly breads, which may not hold up well during cooking.

Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the French toast waffles warm. They taste best fresh from the waffle iron, enhancing their crispy outer layer.

How to Store and Freeze French Toast Waffles

Fridge: Store leftover French toast waffles in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to maintain crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the waffles by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months, ensuring to remove as much air as possible.

Reheating: To enjoy, simply pop frozen waffles in the toaster until crispy, or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore their delightful texture.

Make-Ahead: You can also prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This allows for quick cooking when you’re ready to enjoy fresh French toast waffles!

What to Serve with Crispy French Toast Waffles?

Elevate your breakfast experience with delightful side dishes and toppings that resonate with the warm, comforting flavors of your crispy waffles.

Crispy Bacon: This savory side adds a perfectly salty contrast to the sweet waffles, creating a balanced breakfast plate.
Fresh Berries: Berries like strawberries and blueberries bring a burst of color and freshness, complementing the sweetness of the waffles beautifully.
Maple Syrup Glaze: Drizzling real maple syrup enhances the maple flavors in your waffles, creating an indulgent symphony of sweetness.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a creamy richness that pairs wonderfully with the crispy, fluffy texture of the waffles.
Powdered Sugar Dusting: A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar transforms your waffles into a visually stunning dessert-like breakfast while adding just a touch of sweetness.
Citrus Slices: Fresh orange or lemon slices provide a zesty counterpoint to the rich flavors, refreshing the palate with every bite.
Coffee or Hot Chocolate: These warm beverages bring comfort and warmth to your brunch table, making every bite even more satisfying and indulgent.
Greek Yogurt: A side of creamy Greek yogurt can add a tangy twist, while also providing a healthy protein boost alongside your waffles.

Mix and match these delightful accompaniments to create a brunch that feels truly special and inviting!

French Toast Waffles Variations

Feel free to customize your French Toast Waffles for a delightful twist that suits your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free version that still tastes rich and creamy.
Egg-Free: Replace eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water for a vegan-friendly alternative that binds wonderfully.
Flavor Boost: Add orange zest or a splash of orange juice to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.
Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat bread instead of brioche for a healthier option that still holds delicious flavor.
Spiced Up: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder in the batter for a surprising kick of heat.
Nutty Addition: Fold in finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to enhance the texture and flavor of your waffles.
Fruit-Inspired: Top your waffles with a mix of caramelized bananas or grilled peaches for a sweet and fruity accompaniment.
Extra Indulgent: Drizzle melted chocolate or a homemade caramel sauce over the top for a dessert-like treat that’s perfect for special occasions.

For even more creative ideas that elevate your brunch experience, consider exploring how to make a fabulous Avocado Toast Creative or try a playful twist with Avocado Toast Creative. You never know which delightful combination will become your next favorite!

French Toast Waffles Recipe FAQs

What type of bread works best for French toast waffles?
Absolutely! Brioche bread is the ideal choice due to its rich texture and high butter content. If you can’t find brioche, challah serves as a fantastic alternative with a similar outcome. Just steer clear of overly sweet or crumbly breads, as they may not hold up well during cooking.

How do I store leftover French toast waffles?
Store any leftover French toast waffles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s important to let them cool completely before sealing to help maintain their delicious crispiness. When ready to indulge, you can reheat them in a toaster for that freshly made taste!

Can I freeze French toast waffles?
Very! For freezing, place your cooked waffles in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. These waffles can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. They reheat beautifully in a toaster, bringing back that delightful crispiness.

What toppings go well with French toast waffles?
The more the merrier! Consider drizzling maple syrup for a classic touch or dusting with powdered sugar for sweetness. Fresh berries, whipped cream, and even Nutella make for indulgent options that elevate your French toast waffles into a luxurious breakfast experience.

Should I worry about dietary restrictions?
Definitely something to keep in mind! This recipe includes heavy cream and eggs, so it’s not suitable for vegans or those with dairy allergies. For a lighter option, you could substitute heavy cream with whole milk, but it isn’t gluten-free due to the use of brioche. Always check your ingredients to accommodate different dietary needs.