French toast, that delightful breakfast staple, enjoyed worldwide for its sweet, custardy interior and crispy, golden-brown exterior, is a dish shrouded in a bit of linguistic mystery. While we all know the final product, the question of “What is French toast bread called?” can lead down a surprisingly interesting path. The answer, as it turns out, isn’t as straightforward as one might think. The bread used for French toast isn’t called one specific thing; instead, it depends on the type of bread used, the region you’re in, and perhaps even personal preference. This article will delve deep into the bread choices, regional variations, and the ultimate quest for the perfect slice to soak in that eggy goodness.
Understanding the Core Ingredients of French Toast
Before diving into specific bread types, let’s quickly recap what makes French toast, well, French toast. The basic recipe involves dipping slices of bread in a mixture of eggs, milk (or cream), sugar, and often spices like cinnamon or vanilla. The soaked bread is then cooked on a griddle or frying pan until golden brown and cooked through.
The magic lies in the transformation. The egg mixture coats and penetrates the bread, creating a rich, custardy texture when cooked. The sugar caramelizes on the surface, contributing to the golden-brown color and delicious sweetness. The choice of bread, therefore, plays a crucial role in the final outcome. A good bread will soak up the custard evenly without falling apart and will offer a pleasing texture and flavor that complements the other ingredients.
The Usual Suspects: Common Bread Choices for French Toast
While there’s no single “French toast bread,” several types of bread are commonly used and considered excellent choices for making this breakfast treat. Each offers a slightly different texture and flavor profile, allowing for endless variations on the classic recipe.
Brioche: The Rich and Buttery Favorite
Brioche is often considered the gold standard for French toast. This enriched dough, made with butter and eggs, is known for its incredibly soft, tender crumb and rich, buttery flavor. The high fat content allows it to soak up the custard beautifully, resulting in a truly decadent and luxurious French toast experience. The slight sweetness of brioche also complements the other flavors perfectly. Its structure holds well, preventing it from becoming soggy during the soaking process.
Challah: The Slightly Sweet and Eggy Option
Challah, a braided bread traditionally eaten on Jewish holidays, is another excellent choice for French toast. Similar to brioche, challah is made with eggs, which contribute to its rich flavor and soft texture. However, challah is typically less buttery than brioche, resulting in a slightly lighter French toast. Its subtle sweetness and slightly chewy texture make it a delightful alternative.
Texas Toast: The Thick-Cut Classic
Texas toast, with its extra-thick slices, is a popular option, particularly in the United States. Its substantial size makes for a hearty and satisfying French toast. The thickness allows it to soak up a significant amount of custard, creating a deliciously moist interior. However, it’s important to ensure that the Texas toast is cooked through completely to avoid a soggy center.
Sourdough: The Tangy Twist
For those who prefer a more savory French toast, sourdough bread can be an excellent choice. Its tangy flavor adds a unique dimension to the dish, contrasting nicely with the sweetness of the custard. The slightly chewy texture of sourdough also provides a pleasant contrast to the soft interior. It’s important to choose a sourdough that isn’t too sour, as this can overpower the other flavors.
White Bread: The Simple and Versatile Choice
Plain white bread, while perhaps not as exciting as brioche or challah, is a perfectly acceptable option for French toast. It’s readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it a convenient choice for everyday breakfasts. The key is to use a slightly stale loaf, as this will help prevent the bread from becoming too soggy.
French Bread: The Rustic Option
French bread or baguette, while typically crusty, can also be used for French toast, especially if slightly stale. The airy interior soaks up the custard well, and the crust provides a nice textural contrast. However, it’s crucial to ensure the bread is not too hard, as this can make it difficult to soak evenly. Slicing it at an angle can help with soaking and presentation.
Regional Variations and Bread Preferences
The type of bread used for French toast can also vary depending on regional preferences. In some areas, certain types of bread are more readily available or culturally associated with French toast.
In France, where French toast is known as “pain perdu” (literally “lost bread”), stale baguette is often used. This makes perfect sense, as “pain perdu” was originally conceived as a way to use up bread that was past its prime.
In the United States, Texas toast and white bread are common choices, particularly in diners and family restaurants. Brioche and challah are often favored in more upscale establishments or by home cooks looking for a more decadent treat.
The Stale Factor: Why Stale Bread is Key
Regardless of the type of bread you choose, using slightly stale bread is crucial for making good French toast. Stale bread has a lower moisture content than fresh bread, which means it can absorb more of the egg custard without becoming soggy. The dryness creates tiny air pockets within the bread that allow the custard to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more flavorful and evenly cooked French toast. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out slightly by leaving it out uncovered for a few hours or lightly toasting it in the oven.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Alternative Bread Choices
While the bread types listed above are the most common, there’s no limit to the possibilities when it comes to choosing bread for French toast. Experimenting with different types of bread can lead to exciting new flavor combinations and textures.
- Cinnamon Swirl Bread: Adds an extra layer of sweetness and spice.
- Raisin Bread: Offers a unique flavor and textural element.
- Croissants: For an ultra-rich and flaky French toast experience.
- Panettone: An Italian sweet bread perfect for holiday French toast.
The Ultimate Guide to Soaking Your Bread
Proper soaking is essential for achieving the perfect French toast texture. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t Oversoak: Oversoaking will result in soggy French toast that falls apart during cooking. Dip the bread in the egg mixture for a few seconds on each side, just long enough to allow it to absorb some of the liquid.
- Use a Shallow Dish: A shallow dish makes it easier to flip the bread and ensure even soaking.
- Whisk the Egg Mixture Thoroughly: A well-whisked egg mixture will ensure that the eggs, milk, sugar, and spices are evenly distributed.
- Adjust Soaking Time Based on Bread Type: Thicker slices of bread, like Texas toast, will require a slightly longer soaking time than thinner slices. Stale bread will also require more soaking than fresh bread.
Cooking to Perfection: Achieving the Golden-Brown Ideal
Once the bread is properly soaked, it’s time to cook it. Here are some tips for achieving that perfect golden-brown exterior and custardy interior:
- Use a Non-Stick Pan or Griddle: This will prevent the French toast from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Medium Heat is Key: Cooking over medium heat will allow the French toast to cook through without burning.
- Butter Up: Melt a generous amount of butter in the pan before adding the French toast. The butter will add flavor and help create a crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the French toast in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and lowering the temperature.
- Flip Carefully: Use a spatula to carefully flip the French toast when the bottom side is golden brown.
- Check for Doneness: The French toast is done when it’s golden brown on both sides and the interior is cooked through. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife or fork into the center. If it comes out clean, the French toast is ready.
Serving Suggestions: Toppings and Accompaniments
French toast is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with toppings and accompaniments. Here are some popular serving suggestions:
- Maple Syrup: The classic choice, providing sweetness and moisture.
- Powdered Sugar: Adds a delicate sweetness and visual appeal.
- Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness and acidity.
- Whipped Cream: Adds a creamy and decadent touch.
- Nutella: For a chocolatey twist.
- Cinnamon Sugar: Adds an extra layer of spice and sweetness.
- Bacon or Sausage: For a savory contrast.
- Fruit Compote: A delicious way to add flavor and moisture.
Conclusion: The Bread Makes the French Toast
So, what is French toast bread called? The answer, as we’ve explored, is multifaceted. There isn’t one definitive name, but rather a range of choices, each offering its own unique characteristics. Whether you prefer the rich and buttery goodness of brioche, the subtly sweet flavor of challah, or the simplicity of white bread, the key is to choose a bread that you enjoy and that will soak up the custard evenly. And remember, slightly stale bread is always the best choice. Experiment with different types of bread and toppings to create your own signature French toast recipe. With a little practice and creativity, you’ll be able to create French toast that is both delicious and satisfying. Ultimately, the bread is the foundation of French toast. Choosing the right bread, preparing it well, and cooking it properly will result in an unforgettable breakfast experience.
What is the most common name for the bread used in French toast?
While French toast can be made with various types of bread, the most commonly used is a slightly stale, enriched bread. Enriched breads are those that have had fat, eggs, and sugar added to the dough, resulting in a richer, more tender crumb. This type of bread soaks up the custard mixture beautifully, creating the perfect balance of soft interior and crispy exterior when cooked.
Some popular enriched bread choices for French toast include brioche, challah, and Texas toast. Brioche, known for its buttery flavor and delicate texture, is a particularly favored option. Challah, a traditional Jewish bread, also boasts a rich flavor and slightly sweet taste that complements the sweetness of French toast. Texas toast, being thicker, provides a heartier and more substantial French toast experience.
Is there a specific “French toast bread” sold in stores?
You generally won’t find bread specifically labeled as “French toast bread” in most grocery stores. However, bread that is suitable for French toast is readily available, and you can often find pre-sliced options that work well. The best approach is to look for breads with a slightly tighter crumb and richer flavor profile.
Instead of searching for a dedicated “French toast bread,” focus on varieties like brioche, challah, or even sturdy white bread. Consider purchasing a loaf a day or two before you plan to make French toast, as slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture more effectively without becoming overly soggy. Many bakeries also offer day-old bread at discounted prices, which is perfect for this purpose.
Why is slightly stale bread recommended for French toast?
The key reason slightly stale bread is preferred for French toast is its ability to absorb the custard mixture more efficiently. Fresh bread, with its high moisture content, can become overly saturated and mushy when soaked in the egg and milk mixture. Stale bread, having lost some of its moisture, acts like a sponge, readily drawing in the custard.
This absorption process results in a French toast that is moist and tender on the inside, while still maintaining a crisp and golden-brown exterior when cooked. Using fresh bread can lead to a soggy and unevenly cooked result, lacking the textural contrast that makes French toast so appealing. Allowing the bread to sit out overnight or for a day or two allows it to dry out slightly, creating the ideal texture for soaking.
Can I use gluten-free bread for French toast?
Yes, you can absolutely use gluten-free bread to make French toast! Gluten-free bread has come a long way in recent years, and many varieties now offer a texture and flavor suitable for this purpose. The key is to choose a gluten-free bread that is relatively dense and sturdy, similar to enriched breads containing gluten.
When using gluten-free bread, be mindful that it may absorb the custard mixture more quickly than traditional bread. Reduce the soaking time slightly to avoid overly soggy French toast. Experiment with different gluten-free bread brands to find the one that best suits your taste and texture preferences. Some popular choices include gluten-free brioche-style bread or gluten-free white bread.
Does the thickness of the bread matter for French toast?
Yes, the thickness of the bread significantly impacts the final result of your French toast. Thicker slices of bread are generally preferred because they can withstand a longer soaking time without becoming too soggy. This allows the custard to penetrate more deeply, resulting in a richer and more flavorful interior.
Thick-cut bread also provides a better textural contrast, with a soft, custardy center and a crispy, golden-brown exterior. Thin slices of bread, on the other hand, tend to cook more quickly and can easily become overcooked or dry. While you can certainly use thinner slices, you’ll need to adjust the soaking and cooking times accordingly to prevent them from becoming overly saturated or dry.
What is the difference between Texas toast and regular bread for French toast?
The primary difference between Texas toast and regular bread lies in its thickness and texture. Texas toast is significantly thicker than standard sliced bread, typically about twice as thick. This extra thickness allows it to absorb more of the custard mixture, resulting in a richer and more substantial French toast experience.
Furthermore, Texas toast often has a slightly softer and more porous texture compared to regular bread. This texture facilitates even better absorption of the custard, ensuring that the entire slice is infused with flavor. While regular bread can certainly be used for French toast, Texas toast offers a unique and satisfyingly decadent alternative, especially for those who prefer a heartier and more indulgent breakfast.
Are there regional variations in the type of bread used for French toast?
While there isn’t a strict regional variation dictating a specific “French toast bread,” certain areas may exhibit preferences for particular types of bread based on local availability and culinary traditions. For example, in regions with a strong Jewish community, challah may be a more common choice for French toast. Similarly, in areas known for their bakeries, fresh brioche may be readily accessible and frequently used.
The specific bread used often comes down to personal preference and what is readily available. However, the underlying principle remains the same: to select a bread that is slightly stale, relatively dense, and capable of absorbing the custard mixture without becoming overly soggy. Regional bakeries might also offer unique, locally-baked breads that are perfectly suited for making delicious French toast.