Tempting French Toast Bagel Recipe In Just 25 Minutes
French toast bagels are a delightful fusion that combines the sweet, custardy essence of French toast with the dense, chewy texture of a classic bagel. This culinary hybrid is perfect for those who crave a twist on traditional breakfast items. Each bagel is typically dipped in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, a touch of vanilla, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, mirroring the traditional French toast preparation. The mixture infuses the bagel with rich flavors and a slightly custardy interior once cooked.
To enhance the experience, French toast bagels are often grilled or pan-fried to achieve a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, tender middle. This method not only warms the bagel but also caramelizes the outer layer, adding a delightful crunch and deepening the flavors with a hint of smokiness.
These bagels can be served with a variety of toppings such as a dollop of cream cheese, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even fresh berries for added sweetness and texture. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast on a busy morning or savored during a leisurely brunch, French toast bagels offer a comforting and satisfying option that appeals to both bagel lovers and French toast aficionados alike.
Kitchen Tools Needed
Large Mixing Bowl – For preparing the egg mixture.
Whisk – To mix the eggs, milk, and spices thoroughly.
Non-stick Skillet or Griddle – For cooking the bagels to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking.
Spatula – To flip the bagels easily while cooking.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate measurement of ingredients.
Bread Knife – To slice the bagels if desired.
Serving Plates – For serving the prepared French toast bagels.
Fork – To help dip and soak the bagels in the egg mixture.
Ingredients for French Toast Bagel
4 Bagels – Plain or cinnamon raisin work well.
4 Large Eggs – Acts as the base of the custard mixture.
1 Cup Milk – Whole milk is preferred for richness.
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Adds a subtle flavor depth.
1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon – Provides a warm spice note.
1/4 Teaspoon Nutmeg (optional) – Enhances the overall flavor.
Butter or Non-stick Cooking Spray – For greasing the skillet.
Toppings:
Maple Syrup
Powdered Sugar
Fresh Berries (such as strawberries or blueberries)
Whipped Cream
How To Make French Toast Bagel?
Preparing the Egg Mixture
Start by whisking the eggs in a large mixing bowl until they are fully blended. Add the milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the eggs. Whisk all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Soaking the Bagels
Slice the bagels in half if they are not pre-cut. Dip each bagel half into the egg mixture, allowing them to soak for about 30 seconds on each side. Ensure each side is well-coated and has absorbed some of the mixture without becoming too soggy.
Cooking the Bagels
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the soaked bagel halves on the skillet. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the egg mixture is fully cooked.
Serving
Serve the cooked French toast bagels warm. They can be topped with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor and presentation.
Additional Tips
For a richer flavor, you can use half-and-half or cream instead of milk.
Adjust the soaking time based on how soft or crispy you prefer your French toast bagel.
Keep cooked bagels warm in an oven set to a low temperature if making multiple batches.
What Goes Best With French toast bagel?
Scrambled Eggs: Light, fluffy scrambled eggs make a perfect protein-rich side that complements the sweetness of French toast bagels.
Crispy Bacon or Sausage Links: The salty crunch of bacon or the savory flavor of sausage balances the sweetness of the bagels.
Seasonal Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful assortment of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi adds a refreshing touch.
Yogurt with Honey and Nuts: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey and sprinkled with nuts provides a rich texture and flavor contrast.
Hash Browns or Breakfast Potatoes: Offer a crispy, savory side that rounds out the breakfast plate.
Orange Juice or Apple Cider: Freshly squeezed orange juice or chilled apple cider complements the meal with a sweet, tart beverage.
Coffee or Tea: Serve with hot coffee or a selection of teas to help balance the meal’s sweetness and provide a warm, comforting beverage.
Maple Syrup and Butter: Additional maple syrup and a pat of butter on the side allow guests to adjust the sweetness and richness to their taste.
Cream Cheese Spread: A side of flavored cream cheese spread, like mixed berry or cinnamon, adds a creamy texture and enhances the bagels’ flavor.
Health Benefits
Carbohydrates for Energy: Bagels, as a primary component of this dish, are a good source of carbohydrates. These are essential for providing energy to fuel your body throughout the day, especially in the morning.
Protein Content: By combining bagels with the egg mixture used in French toast, this dish increases its protein content. Protein is crucial for muscle repair, growth, and general body function.
Whole Grains Option: Opting for whole grain bagels can enhance the fiber content of your meal. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain blood sugar levels, and can contribute to heart health.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Eggs, a central ingredient in the French toast mixture, are packed with vitamins such as vitamin D, which is important for bone health, and B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism.
Customizable for Nutritional Balance: French toast bagels can be tailored with toppings like fresh fruits or nuts, adding antioxidants, vitamins, and additional fiber, which contribute to overall health and well-being.
Moderate in Calories: When prepared with mindful portions and healthy ingredients, French toast bagels can be part of a balanced diet without being overly calorie-dense.
Tips And Tricks
Choose the Right Bagel: Opt for denser bagels such as plain, whole wheat, or cinnamon raisin for better soaking without falling apart. Avoid overly airy or fluffy bagels as they might not hold up well during the soaking process.
Dry the Bagels Slightly: If time permits, lightly toast the bagels before dipping them in the egg mixture. This helps them absorb more of the custard without becoming soggy.
Enhance the Egg Mixture: Elevate the flavor of your egg mixture by adding a splash of orange zest, a pinch of cardamom, or even a bit of almond extract to provide a unique twist to the traditional taste.
Low and Slow Cooking: Cook the soaked bagels on medium-low heat. This allows the inside to warm up and cook through without burning the outside.
Use a Well-Greased Pan: Ensure your skillet or griddle is well-greased with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
Serve Immediately: French toast bagels taste best when served warm, straight from the skillet. If you need to keep them warm for a bit, place them in a preheated oven at a low temperature.
Experiment with Toppings: Offer a variety of toppings such as nut butters, honey, fresh fruits, or yogurt to allow everyone to customize their French toast bagel to their liking.
Prep Ahead for Groups: If serving a crowd, keep the egg-soaked bagels on a baking sheet in the refrigerator, then cook them in batches. This helps manage kitchen time and keeps everyone served at once.
Adjust Soaking Time: Tailor the soaking time based on the thickness and texture of the bagels. Thicker or denser bagels may need a longer soaking time to absorb enough of the egg mixture.
Variations for French Toast Bagels
Stuffed French Toast Bagels: Prior to dipping, fill the bagel holes with cream cheese, mascarpone, or a fruit preserve. This adds a creamy or fruity surprise in each bite.
Savory French Toast Bagels: Swap the vanilla and cinnamon for savory spices like black pepper and paprika. Top with melted cheese, avocado, or a poached egg for a breakfast sandwich twist.
Chocolate and Nut French Toast Bagels: Mix cocoa powder into the egg batter and add chopped nuts for a dessert-like breakfast treat.
Vegan French Toast Bagels: Use almond or soy milk in place of dairy milk and a vegan egg substitute like flax eggs. Use vegan cream cheese for topping.
Holiday-Inspired: Incorporate spices like pumpkin spice or gingerbread seasoning in the egg mixture during the festive season for a holiday-flavored breakfast.
Substitutions for French Toast Bagels
Gluten-Free Bagels: Replace regular bagels with gluten-free options to cater to those with dietary restrictions.
Dairy-Free Alternatives: Use plant-based milks such as almond, coconut, or oat milk instead of cow’s milk in the egg mixture.
Egg Alternatives: For those avoiding eggs, use a commercial egg replacer or a homemade mixture of water, oil, and baking powder.
Lower Fat Options: Substitute whole milk with skim or 2% milk, and use cooking spray instead of butter for a lower calorie option.
Sweetener Variations: Replace traditional syrup toppings with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar-free syrup to adjust sweetness levels or cater to dietary preferences.
Making Ahead
Prep the Egg Mixture: You can prepare the egg mixture the night before and keep it refrigerated. This not only saves time in the morning but also allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
Pre-soak the Bagels: If you’re planning a brunch or need a quick breakfast, soak the bagels in the egg mixture and store them on a parchment-lined tray in the refrigerator overnight. They’ll be ready to cook first thing in the morning.
Storage
Refrigeration: Cooked French toast bagels can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure they are cooled to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container to prevent them from getting soggy.
Freezing: For longer storage, French toast bagels freeze well. Wrap each bagel individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month.
Reheating
Oven: Reheating in the oven is the best method to restore the French toast bagels’ original texture. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the bagels on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.
Toaster Oven: A toaster oven is a quick and effective way to reheat French toast bagels, especially if you’re only reheating one or two. Set the toaster oven to 350°F and heat the bagels for about 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: While not ideal, the microwave can be used for a quick reheat. Place the bagel on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. Heat on high for 30-60 seconds or until warm. Be cautious as this method may soften the texture significantly.
The best types of bagels for French toast are denser varieties such as plain, sesame, cinnamon raisin, or everything bagels. These types hold up better when soaked in the egg mixture, providing a good balance of texture and flavor absorption without falling apart.
Yes, French toast bagels can easily be made vegan by using plant-based milk (like almond, soy, or oat milk) and a vegan egg substitute (such as commercially available vegan egg replacers or a homemade flaxseed and water mixture). Additionally, top them with vegan cream cheese or a drizzle of maple syrup instead of honey.
To prevent French toast bagels from becoming soggy, avoid over-soaking them in the egg mixture. A quick dip to coat each side is sufficient. Also, slightly toasting the bagels beforehand can help them maintain structure and absorb the right amount of custard without getting too soft.
Quick topping ideas for French toast bagels include powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, sliced bananas, nut butter, chocolate chips, or a dollop of yogurt. These toppings add a burst of flavor and can be tailored to personal taste preferences or dietary needs.
Leftover French toast bagels can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to a month. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker method, reheat them in a toaster oven or microwave, though the latter might soften their texture.
Recipe by JesseCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings
4
servings
Prep time
10
minutes
Cooking time
15
minutes
Calories
350
kcal
Ingredients
4 Bagels – Plain or cinnamon raisin work well.
4 Large Eggs – Acts as the base of the custard mixture.
1 Cup Milk – Whole milk is preferred for richness.
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract – Adds a subtle flavor depth.
1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon – Provides a warm spice note.
1/4 Teaspoon Nutmeg (optional) – Enhances the overall flavor.
Butter or Non-stick Cooking Spray – For greasing the skillet.
Toppings:
Maple Syrup
Powdered Sugar
Fresh Berries (such as strawberries or blueberries)
Whipped Cream
Directions
Start by whisking the eggs in a large mixing bowl until they are fully blended. Add the milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the eggs. Whisk all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Slice the bagels in half if they are not pre-cut. Dip each bagel half into the egg mixture, allowing them to soak for about 30 seconds on each side. Ensure each side is well-coated and has absorbed some of the mixture without becoming too soggy.
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or spray it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the soaked bagel halves on the skillet. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and the egg mixture is fully cooked.
Serve the cooked French toast bagels warm. They can be topped with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor and presentation.
For a richer flavor, you can use half-and-half or cream instead of milk.
Adjust the soaking time based on how soft or crispy you prefer your French toast bagel.
Keep cooked bagels warm in an oven set to a low temperature if making multiple batches.
Conclusion
French toast bagels present a delightful twist on two breakfast classics, combining the satisfying chew of bagels with the sweet, custardy texture of French toast. This versatile dish can be tailored to various dietary preferences, offering endless possibilities for both sweet and savory variations. Ideal for a leisurely weekend breakfast or a quick weekday treat, French toast bagels are not only delicious but also a comforting choice that can be prepped ahead for convenience.
With the right techniques, such as proper soaking and careful cooking, they maintain a perfect texture—crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. By exploring different toppings and fillings, one can endlessly enjoy and reinvent this delightful dish in their kitchen.
