There’s something utterly delightful about waking up to the promise of a special breakfast to kickstart the day, and this Ice Cream French Toast definitely fits the bill! I stumbled upon this whimsical recipe during a lazy weekend morning, with a half-eaten tub of vanilla ice cream sitting in my freezer, urging me to get creative. The moment I whisked together melted ice cream, eggs, and a hint of cinnamon, I could already envision the crispy, golden slices that would soon fill my kitchen with their inviting aroma.
Imagine those lazy Sunday brunches, where you want something indulgent yet deceptively simple. This recipe strikes that perfect balance; it’s not just French toast, but a creamy, sweet version that transforms breakfast into a celebration. With just a handful of ingredients, you can easily impress yourself or your loved ones, making it a new go-to for any morning craving. Let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing treat that’s sure to turn your breakfast routine into something extraordinary!
Why Choose Ice Cream French Toast?
Sweetness in every bite: The luscious vanilla ice cream adds a sweet, creamy twist that will elevate your mornings.
Simple steps make it easy: This recipe requires minimal effort, ensuring even novice cooks can whip it up without a hitch.
Versatile toppings let you customize: From maple syrup to fresh berries, the options are endless, ensuring everyone gets their favorite.
Crowd-pleaser for all ages: Kids and adults alike will adore this fun take on a classic breakfast.
Perfect for lazy weekends: Enjoy a luxurious breakfast without the fuss — just relax, soak, and cook!
Ice Cream French Toast Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a delightful breakfast!
For the Batter
- Melted vanilla ice cream – This is the star ingredient that transforms your French toast into a sweet celebration.
- Large eggs – Provides the classic French toast structure and richness.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the natural flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
- Ground cinnamon – A dash adds warmth and a hint of spice, perfect for complementing the sweetness.
For the Toast
- Texas Toast or favorite bread – Thick slices absorb the batter beautifully, ensuring a satisfying bite every time.
Optional Toppings
- Butter – A dollop of buttery goodness brings richness to the final dish.
- Maple syrup – Drizzling this golden sweetness will take your Ice Cream French Toast over the top.
- Berries – Fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries add a vibrant pop and freshness.
- Extra ice cream – For those truly indulgent moments, why not go all out with a scoop on top?
How to Make Ice Cream French Toast
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Preheat your griddle, ensuring it reaches a medium heat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A well-heated surface is key to achieving that perfect golden brown crust.
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Mix the batter by combining melted vanilla ice cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a shallow baking dish or pie plate. Whisk until everything is well blended, and you can’t resist sneaking a taste!
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Soak each slice of bread by dipping both sides into the egg mixture. Allow the bread to absorb the goodness for a moment, making sure it’s well coated but not overly soggy.
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Spray your hot griddle with non-stick cooking spray. Then, cook the soaked bread in batches, 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each slice is golden and crisp. Your kitchen will soon fill with heavenly aromas!
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Serve your delicious French toast hot. Add your desired toppings for an extra touch of indulgence. If you’re preparing for later, keep the finished slices warm in a 250°F oven until you’re ready to dig in.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ice Cream French Toast?
Transform your breakfast into a delightful feast with these perfect pairings that complement the creamy sweetness of your French toast.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon creates a delicious contrast to the sweet, soft toast. A breakfast staple that everyone loves!
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Fresh Berries: Vibrant strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a refreshing burst of flavor, enhancing the dish’s sweetness and brightness.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A classic choice! The rich, golden syrup seeps into the toast, intensifying the flavors and making each bite heavenly.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream adds a luxurious touch, making your Ice Cream French Toast feel extra special.
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Yogurt Parfait: Serve a side of creamy yogurt layered with granola and fruit for a wholesome, delicious balance to your sweet breakfast treat.
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Coffee or Latte: A steaming cup of coffee or a frothy latte pairs perfectly, balancing the sweetness and giving you that warm, cozy vibe.
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Mixed Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a cool, tangy counterpoint and brings a delightful crunch alongside the soft toast.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For the ultimate indulgence, a scoop of ice cream on the side is heavenly and turns breakfast into a sweet celebration!
Make Ahead Options
These Ice Cream French Toast slices are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can whisk the batter of melted vanilla ice cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, soak the slices of Texas Toast in the mixture and keep them in the fridge, separated with parchment paper, for about 12 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious breakfast, simply heat your griddle and cook them for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden. This way, you’ll be able to savor a delightful breakfast with minimal morning effort, just as delicious as if made fresh!
Expert Tips for Ice Cream French Toast
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Bread choice: Use thick slices like Texas Toast for a satisfying bite and better absorption of the batter.
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Soak wisely: Don’t let your bread soak too long; a quick dip ensures a gooey center and crispy exterior without being soggy.
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Temperature control: Maintain the griddle’s medium heat to achieve that golden brown crust without burning.
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Batch cooking: Cook in smaller batches to keep the bread warm and crispy; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
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Customize toppings: Get creative with fruits, whipped cream, or even nuts to enhance your Ice Cream French Toast experience!
Storage Tips for Ice Cream French Toast
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Room Temperature: Serve Ice Cream French Toast fresh for the best experience. If left out, enjoy within 2 hours for optimal taste and safety.
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Fridge: Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven for a crispy finish!
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven until warmed through and slightly crispy. Enjoy your Ice Cream French Toast just like the first time!
Variations & Substitutions for Ice Cream French Toast
Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!
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Chocolate Ice Cream: Swap vanilla ice cream for chocolate for a rich, indulgent twist that melts in your mouth.
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Nut Free: Use a nut-free bread, avoiding any nut-flavored ice cream or toppings to ensure a safe and delicious breakfast delight.
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Vegan: Substitute melted vanilla ice cream with a dairy-free ice cream and use flax eggs as a binder for a plant-based version.
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Coconut Twist: Incorporate coconut-flavored ice cream and add shredded coconut on top for an island-inspired treat that transports you to a tropical paradise!
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Chili Chocolate: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder in the egg mixture for a surprising heat that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Brioche Bread: Change up the texture by using brioche instead of Texas toast for an exceptionally soft and buttery French toast experience.
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Berry Bliss: Blend in some crushed berries with the batter for fruity flavors that add both sweetness and nutrients, making breakfast feel even more cheerful.
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Maple Nut Crunch: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for a delightful crunch that pairs well with the creaminess of the ice cream.
Explore these variations to find your favorite twist, and watch how each culinary change ignites excitement at your breakfast table!
Ice Cream French Toast Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Ice Cream French Toast?
I recommend using thick slices of Texas Toast or challah bread as they absorb the batter beautifully, giving you that luxurious, gooey center while maintaining a golden, crispy exterior.
How should I store leftover Ice Cream French Toast?
Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in a toaster oven to restore that crispy texture, ensuring a delightfully satisfying breakfast!
Can I freeze Ice Cream French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and slightly crispy.
What toppings can I use for Ice Cream French Toast?
The possibilities are endless! While classic maple syrup is always a winner, you can also try fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor, whipped cream for added richness, or even a scoop of ice cream for an over-the-top treat. Get creative with your favorites!
How do I prevent my French toast from being soggy?
The key to avoiding soggy French toast is to soak the bread just right: dip each slice quickly, ensuring it absorbs the batter without becoming overly soaked. Aim for a quick soak on each side, allowing enough time to coat, but not so long that it loses its structure. Enjoy that perfect balance of soft and crispy!
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking for dairy-free options, you can substitute the vanilla ice cream with a dairy-free ice cream alternative. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread, and you’re good to go! Always tailor the recipe to meet your dietary needs while keeping the fun indulgence intact.
Enjoy the delightful journey of making Ice Cream French Toast, and happy cooking!
Delicious Ice Cream French Toast for a Sweet Breakfast Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your griddle to medium heat.
- Mix melted vanilla ice cream, eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a shallow baking dish.
- Soak each slice of bread in the egg mixture, coating both sides.
- Spray the griddle with non-stick cooking spray and cook soaked bread for 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve hot with your desired toppings.