French Toast Bagels are a fun twist on the classic breakfast dish! These bagels are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, soaked in a sweet egg mixture like traditional French toast.
To make them even more special, I love adding a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup on top. They are a great way to start the day, plus they make my kitchen smell amazing! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bagels: Day-old bagels work best as they soak up the egg mixture without falling apart. If you can’t find plain bagels, any flavor like cinnamon raisin or everything bagels can add a delicious twist!
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for the custard base. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use egg whites or a vegan substitute like flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
Milk: Whole milk gives a rich flavor, but you can substitute it with almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk to suit dietary preferences.
Spices: Ground cinnamon is a must for flavor. If you’re out of nutmeg, you can skip it or try a dash of ground ginger or allspice instead; both will add warmth to your dish.
Toppings: Crushed oats add a nice crunch, but you can use chopped nuts or granola for a different texture. Maple syrup is classic, but honey or agave syrup are good alternatives as well.
How Do I Fry Bagels to Get Them Perfectly Golden Brown?
Frying bagels is crucial for that crispy edge and soft center. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Ensure your skillet is at medium heat. Too hot can burn the outside before cooking through.
- Use enough butter or oil to coat the pan, helping with even browning.
- Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Don’t rush! If they hold firm, they might need a little longer.
- Try not to crowd the skillet; fry in batches if needed to maintain even cooking.
With these tips, your French Toast Bagels will turn out delicious every time!
How to Make French Toast Bagels
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 4 plain bagels (preferably day-old or slightly stale)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or oil, for frying
For Topping (Optional):
- 1/4 cup crushed oats (for a crunchy topping)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or butter for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful French Toast Bagels recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and another 10 minutes to cook, making a total of around 20 minutes. It’s a quick and easy breakfast treat that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Slice the Bagels:
Start by slicing each bagel horizontally into two halves. This will create perfect little rounds for your French toast. If your bagels are fresh, slightly toasting them beforehand can help with texture!
2. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt. Mix well until everything is fully combined and frothy.
3. Soak the Bagel Halves:
Dip each bagel half into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are soaked through but not soggy. If they’re too wet, they might fall apart while cooking, so a quick dip is best!
4. Optional Oat Coating:
If you’d like a crunchy topping, gently press the tops of the bagel halves into the crushed oats. This adds a nice texture and flavor to your French Toast Bagels!
5. Heat the Skillet:
In a large skillet or griddle, heat it over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil to coat the surface. You want it hot enough to cook the bagels quickly without burning them.
6. Cook the Bagels:
Carefully place the soaked bagel halves onto the skillet, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color to know they’re ready to flip. If they take a little longer, that’s okay—just keep an eye on them!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once both sides are golden brown, remove the bagels from the skillet. Serve them warm and enjoy with your choice of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a pat of butter. They’re deliciously crispy and sweet!
Enjoy your crispy, sweet French Toast Bagels!
Can I Use Other Types of Bagels?
Absolutely! While plain bagels work best, you can experiment with flavors like cinnamon raisin, everything, or even chocolate chip bagels for a fun twist!
How Can I Store Leftover French Toast Bagels?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or skillet until warmed through, and they’ll be almost as good as fresh!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply use gluten-free bagels and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the milk and any toppings, are also gluten-free. They’ll be just as delicious!
What Can I Use Instead of Milk?
You can replace whole milk with any non-dairy milk like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just make sure it’s unsweetened to keep the flavor balanced!
