Who says we have to choose between French toast and pancakes? With this French Toast Pancake recipe, we get the best of both worlds in one delicious dish. It’s the perfect fusion of two breakfast classics, combining the fluffy texture of pancakes with the rich, custardy flavor of French toast.
This recipe is a game-changer for weekend brunch or any morning when we want to treat ourselves. The warm spices and golden-brown edges make every bite irresistible. Whether we’re serving it with syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
French Toast Pancake Recipe
Create a hybrid of your breakfast favorites with this rich and fluffy French Toast Pancake Recipe. Combining the golden crispness of French toast with the soft, pancake texture, this dish is easy to prepare and incredibly indulgent. Follow these step-by-step instructions for an unforgettable breakfast experience.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to whip up this delicious recipe:
-
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
-
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted)
-
For Dipping
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
-
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh fruit (berries, bananas, etc.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pancake Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: whisk 2 large eggs, milk, vanilla, and melted butter until smooth. Slowly incorporate the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—lumps are okay.
2. Cook the Pancakes:
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly grease with a small amount of butter or non-stick spray. Scoop about 1/4 cup of pancake batter onto the skillet, forming small rounds. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and the edges look set (about 2-3 minutes). Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Transfer the pancakes to a plate and keep warm.
3. Prepare the French Toast Dip:
In a shallow dish, whisk the remaining eggs, milk, cinnamon, and sugar together. This forms the flavorful dip to coat the pancakes.
4. Dip and Sear:
Dip each cooked pancake into the French toast mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated but not overly saturated. Return the dipped pancake to the skillet and cook over medium heat until both sides are golden brown, about 1-2 minutes per side.
5. Serve:
Stack the French Toast Pancakes on a serving plate and add your favorite toppings. Drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or pile on fresh fruits for a burst of color and flavor.
Cooking Tips
| Tip | Details |
|---|---|
| Use room-temperature ingredients | Ensures the batter mixes evenly and yields fluffier pancakes. |
| Don’t skip the cinnamon | The warm spice is essential for that classic French toast flavor. |
| Use low-medium heat for cooking | Prevents the pancakes from burning and gives you that perfect golden-brown finish. |
| Keep pancakes warm while dipping | Place them in a low-temperature oven (about 200°F) to keep warm without drying out while you finish cooking the batches. |
Ingredients
For this decadent French Toast Pancake recipe, here are the essential ingredients tailored for each component. Ensure all items are measured accurately and prepped before starting.
For The Pancakes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 3/4 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1 large egg, slightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, cooled slightly
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For The French Toast Batter
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Maple syrup (warm for extra indulgence)
- Fresh fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar, for a light dusting
- Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture
Tools And Equipment
For a foolproof French Toast Pancake recipe, the right tools and equipment are essential. Gathering these kitchen essentials beforehand will ensure smooth preparation and cooking. Here’s what we’ll need:
Essentials for Preparation
- Mixing Bowls (At least 2): One for the pancake batter and another for the French toast mixture.
- Whisk: To thoroughly blend the batter and ensure no lumps.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of ingredients.
- Spatula: Ideal for folding mixes and flipping pancakes without breaking.
Cooking Tools
- Non-Stick Skillet or Griddle: To achieve that perfect golden-brown, even surface on the pancakes.
- Ladle or Batter Dispenser: For pouring consistent portions of pancake batter onto the skillet.
- Tongs or Fork: For dipping pancakes into the French toast mixture with minimal mess.
Post-Cooking
- Cooling Rack: To prevent the pancakes from becoming soggy after cooking.
- Plate or Serving Platter: To stack and showcase the finished French Toast Pancakes.
Helpful Add-Ons
- Pastry Brush: Useful for greasing the skillet evenly with butter.
- Timer: Essential for tracking cooking time to prevent overcooking.
- Fine-Mesh Sieve: For sprinkling powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish.
Quick Reference Table
Here’s a handy table for your kitchen setup:
| Category | Tools And Equipment |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Mixing bowls, whisk, measuring tools, spatula |
| Cooking | Skillet, ladle, tongs |
| Post-Cooking | Cooling rack, serving platter |
| Optional Add-Ons | Pastry brush, timer, sieve |
By using these tools, we can maintain efficiency while crafting a delicious French Toast Pancake breakfast.
Directions
Follow these steps to create the ultimate French Toast Pancake dish. Each stage builds on the previous one, so ensure all elements are prepped for a seamless and enjoyable cooking experience.
Prep
- Gather all your tools and ingredients. Ensure the eggs, milk, and melted butter are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- Preheat your non-stick skillet or griddle to a low-medium heat. Grease it lightly with butter or a neutral oil.
- Set out two mixing bowls—one for the pancake batter and one for the French toast batter.
Make The Pancakes
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- In a second bowl, combine the wet ingredients:
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients while gently mixing until just combined—lumps are okay. Avoid overmixing to keep the pancakes light and fluffy.
- Using a ¼-cup measure, pour batter onto the prepared skillet. Let each pancake cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side, until bubbles form on the surface and the edges are slightly set. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Repeat until all the batter is used.
- Transfer the cooked pancakes to a cooling rack to prevent sogginess.
Prepare The French Toast Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish wide enough to dip the pancakes.
Combine And Cook
- Heat the skillet or griddle to medium heat and lightly grease it again.
- Take a cooked pancake and dip it carefully into the French toast batter, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Avoid soaking the pancake to maintain its structure.
- Place the dipped pancake on the skillet and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side or until the edges are crispy and golden brown. Repeat with the remaining pancakes.
- As the pancakes finish, you can stack them on a serving platter, keeping them warm under aluminum foil if needed.
- Serve with your choice of toppings like warm maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for that perfect French Toast Pancake experience.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying our French Toast Pancakes, the possibilities are endless. To elevate the flavors and create a breakfast to remember, we recommend pairing these golden, crispy pancakes with a variety of toppings and sides. Below, we’ve curated the best serving ideas to suit every palate.
Sweet Toppings
Enhance the flavor profile with some classic and indulgent additions:
- Warm maple syrup drizzled generously for that cozy sweetness.
- A dusting of powdered sugar for a light, elegant touch.
- Fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or sliced bananas to add vibrant color and a refreshing contrast.
- Whipped cream for an extra creamy and decadent finish.
- Chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty undertone.
Savory Pairings
Balance the sweetness with savory companion dishes:
- Serve with crispy bacon strips or savory breakfast sausages to add a salty contrast.
- Pair with a small side of scrambled eggs or a perfectly poached egg for a protein boost.
- Add a dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone for a tangy twist.
Sauces and Spreads
Take the experience up a notch with these flavorful sauces and spreads:
- Nutella or melted chocolate for rich indulgence.
- A smear of peanut butter or almond butter for a nutty twist.
- Caramel sauce for a luxurious, golden sweetness.
- A dollop of Greek yogurt sweetened with honey for a creamy, slightly tangy option.
Presentation Tips
The way we serve food adds to the overall experience. Here’s how to make your French Toast Pancakes look as good as they taste:
- Stack the pancakes neatly, layering them with your chosen toppings.
- Arrange fresh fruit on top and around the plate for a pop of color.
- Drizzle any syrup or sauce in a zig-zag pattern for a visually appealing effect.
- Finish with a light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar for an Instagram-worthy touch.
Recommended Pairings Table
Pair your French Toast Pancakes with these drinks to complete your breakfast spread:
| Drink | Why It’s Perfect |
|---|---|
| Freshly brewed coffee | Balances the sweetness with its bold richness. |
| Orange juice | Offers a bright, refreshing citrus flavor. |
| Chai tea latte | Complements the warm spices with aromatic notes. |
| Hot chocolate | Adds extra indulgence for chocolate lovers. |
With these serving suggestions, our French Toast Pancakes transform into the ultimate breakfast treat, tailored to delight everyone at the table.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing our French Toast Pancakes ahead of time can save valuable moments on busy mornings or when hosting brunch. Here’s how we can streamline the process for maximum convenience and ensure these fluffy delights retain their flavor and texture:
Preparing the Pancakes in Advance
- Cook the Pancakes: Follow the recipe to fully cook the pancakes but skip the French toast dipping and second cook. Set them aside to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
- Store Properly: Layer the cooled pancakes between sheets of parchment paper to avoid them sticking together. Place the stack in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
- Refrigeration or Freezing:
- For short-term storage: Keep pancakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For long-term storage: Freeze pancakes for up to 2 months.
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months |
Preparing the French Toast Batter in Advance
- Mix the Batter: Whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, and vanilla extract as per the recipe instructions.
- Store the Batter: Pour the mixture into a glass jar or airtight container.
- Refrigeration Only: Store the French toast batter in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Give it a quick whisk before using to ensure ingredients are well-mixed.
Reheating and Assembling
- Thaw Frozen Pancakes: If frozen, remove the pancakes and thaw them at room temperature or gently microwave for 10–15 seconds until softened.
- Dip and Cook: Dip the pancakes into the prepared French toast batter, ensuring they are fully coated, and cook them in a skillet over low-medium heat as detailed in the recipe.
- Serve Warm: Garnish the pancakes with your favorite toppings and enjoy them fresh, as if they were made that very morning.
By following these make-ahead tips, we ensure that our French Toast Pancakes retain their delicate balance of soft interiors and crispy golden edges. These preparations offer convenience while delivering an unforgettable breakfast experience.
Conclusion
French Toast Pancakes bring together the best of two breakfast favorites in a way that’s both indulgent and practical. With their irresistible flavors, customizable toppings, and make-ahead options, they’re perfect for any occasion, from laid-back mornings to festive gatherings.
By combining simple ingredients and following a few easy steps, we can create a dish that feels gourmet without the stress. Whether topped with sweet additions or paired with savory sides, these pancakes are guaranteed to impress and satisfy every palate.
Let’s make breakfast extraordinary with this delicious fusion that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes French Toast Pancakes unique?
French Toast Pancakes combine the soft, fluffy texture of pancakes with the crispy, flavorful exterior of French toast. This hybrid dish offers the best of both breakfast favorites in one delicious recipe.
Can I make French Toast Pancakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook and store the pancakes in the fridge or freezer. When ready, reheat them and complete the dipping process in the French toast batter for a warm, crispy finish.
What toppings go well with French Toast Pancakes?
Popular toppings include warm maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or even savory options like bacon or cream cheese.
What tools are essential for making French Toast Pancakes?
You’ll need mixing bowls, a whisk, a non-stick skillet, and a cooling rack. Optional tools like a pastry brush and timer can enhance the cooking process.
How do I ensure my French Toast Pancakes turn out perfect?
Use room-temperature ingredients, maintain low-medium heat while cooking, and don’t overcrowd the skillet. This ensures a fluffy texture and crispy edges.
Can I adjust the flavors of the recipe?
Absolutely! You can modify the spices (like adding more cinnamon or nutmeg) and experiment with different extracts such as almond or maple for unique flavors.
Are French Toast Pancakes suitable for freezing?
Yes, they freeze well. Let the cooked pancakes cool completely before storing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them before prepping with the French toast batter.
What drinks pair well with French Toast Pancakes?
Drink options like freshly brewed coffee, orange juice, chai tea latte, or hot chocolate perfectly complement the rich flavors of French Toast Pancakes.
Is the recipe beginner-friendly?
Yes, the recipe is simple and beginner-friendly with easy-to-follow steps. It’s a great dish to try for weekend brunch or special breakfast occasions.
Can I make the recipe gluten-free or dairy-free?
Certainly! Use gluten-free flour and non-dairy milk (like almond or oat milk) to adapt the recipe for dietary preferences or restrictions.