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    Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Breakfast

    Healthy French Toast

    Published: Nov 6, 2020 · Modified: Nov 6, 2020 by Dannii · This post may contain affiliate links · 85 Comments

    391 shares
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    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    Diet: Low Fat, Vegetarian

    A classic and indulgent breakfast, our version uses a few healthy swaps to lighten it up. Healthy French Toast is a real crowd pleaser and perfect for brunch. Light and fluffy French toast loaded with berries - it's made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen and it's super simple to make.

    A stack of french toast topped with berries and a dollop of yogurt

    Just 8 ingredients and 10 minutes go in to making this Healthy French Toast, and it is much easier to make than you might think. A family favourite that kids will LOVE, it's good for baby led weaning too. Bursting with orange, maple, vanilla and cinnamon, it's a really warming and comforting breakfast that tastes far more indulgent than it actually is.

    Jump to:
    • Why should you try it?
    • What you will need
    • Step by step
    • Healthy swaps
    • French toast toppings
    • How to make it gluten free
    • FAQs
    • Extra tips
    • More breakfast recipes
    • Recipe
    • Feedback

    Why should you try it?

    • A delicious brunch to feed a crowd
    • Tastes far more indulgent than it is
    • Ready in just 10 minutes
    • Just 8 ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen
    • Easy to customise
    • Kids love it

    What you will need

    • Wholewheat bread - this is a healthier swap rather than using slices of white bread. It's slightly lower in calories and higher in fibre, meaning it will keep you fuller for longer.
    • Eggs - we used whole eggs, as it adds a richer flavour. However, you could use egg whites, you would need to use an extra egg for this.
    • Milk - using skimmed milk makes it lower in fat than using whole milk. You can swap this for any milk and almond milk works well for a dairy free option.
    • Cinnamon
    • Nutmeg
    • Orange
    • Vanilla
    • Maple syrup - you could use honey instead if you don't have any maple syrup.
    • Berries, maple syrup, powdered sugar and yogurt - to serve
    Four slices of bread on a plate surrounded by a bottle of milk, two eggs, an orange, some maple syrup and some spices

    Step by step

    One: Put the eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange juice and zest, vanilla and maple syrup in a bowl and whisk.

    Eggs, milk and spices in a mixing bowl

    Two: One by one, dip the slices of bread in to the mix until the are fully submerged and soak up all the mixture.

    A slice of bread being dipped into a bowl of egg mixture

    Three: Melt some butter in a frying pan and then one by one, fry the soaked bread slices for 2-3 minutes each side until browned.

    A slice of French toast cooking in a frying pan

    Four: Serve with yogurt, berries, powdered sugar and a little more maple syrup.

    A stack of french toast topped with strawberries, raspberries and blueberries

    Healthy swaps

    Traditionally French toast is usually loaded with sugar in the egg mixture and then piled with calorie loaded toppings. We have made a few simple healthy swaps to lighten this up and make it a healthy French toast.

    • We have added just a little maple syrup in to the egg mixture, but you could leave it out completely. I find that leaving it out makes it taste too savoury. So, just a tablespoon is added.
    • We used wholewheat bread instead of white bread or brioche, which is higher in sugar. Wholewheat adds more dietary fibre to this breakfast too. Dietary fibre is important because it is beneficial to your digestive system as a prebiotic. Increasing the amount of fibre in your diet can help you to feel fuller for longer.
    • We added juice and zest of half an orange, as it really lightens up the whole recipe with a fresh flavour that doesn't add extra calories. It also adds extra sweetness without having to add more sugar.
    • Whilst we used whole eggs to make the mixture that the bread is dipped in to, you can just use egg white which will make the recipe lower in fat.
    • Using skimmed milk makes it lower in fat than more traditional recipes that use whole milk, however you can substitute it for any milk. Almond milk works well and adds a nice nutty flavour.

    We did fry ours in butter, however you could just add spray oil to the pan instead. The only problem I find with this, is that is does burn more easily.

    A mixture of berries on top of some French toast

    French toast toppings

    What is French toast without the toppings? Boring, that's what! Here is where you can get really creative, but also where the calories can add up. Keep the toppings as light as possible, to keep this healthy French toast.

    We loaded ours with a mixture of fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries and blueberries), however you could just go with some slices of banana, or go a tropical route with some grilled pineapple and mango. Add a splash of rum and you have yourself a party. Maybe not for breakfast though.

    We added some creaminess with a dollop of fat free Greek yogurt. You would usually get some kind of cream with traditional French toast, but we saved some calories and fat with yogurt.

    We added an extra drizzle of maple syrup, because life really is too short, however you can leave this out to save some more calories.

    How to make it gluten free

    The only change you need to make to make this gluten free is to swap the bread for your favourite gluten free variety. Everything else is naturally gluten free. Make sure that you are using pure maple syrup though, and not the fake stuff.

    Maple syrup being poured from a bottle onto some French toast

    FAQs

    How healthy is French toast?

    This is a much lighter version than traditional French toast as we have used wholewheat bread, less sugar and been careful with the toppings. Healthy is such a subjective word though, and what might be healthy for me might not be healthy for you.

    What is the secret to really good French Toast?

    The secret to really good French toast is the bread you use, and making sure that it is a couple days old so it doesn't go too soggy. Also, adding some extra flavours helps to liven it up a bit. We went with warming flavours like orange, cinnamon and nutmeg.

    What bread to use for healthy French toast?

    For a really indulgent French toast, you would use slices of brioche. However, we have used wholewheat. You could also use slices of sourdough, French bread, plain white loaf, or challah.
    You really can use any bread, and if you want to make this a budget friendly breakfast, then use whatever you have in your kitchen rather than buying something just to make this.
    The key when it comes to the bread you do use, is making sure that it isn't fresh. You want to use slices that are a couple of days old, so the bread doesn't become too soggy when soaked. If all you have it fresh bread, then you can lightly toast it before you soak it.

    Can you make healthy French toast without egg?

    Whilst we haven't tried this ourselves, you can use a little cornstarch. This will help to thicken the milk and helps the batter stick to the bread. You will still get crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside French toast, even without the egg.

    Can you make vegan French toast?

    You could either use the cornstarch tip above, or make a chia seed "egg". Simply leave out the eggs and add a tablespoon of chia seeds to the milk and rest of the ingredients. You would need to use a plant based milk like almond or coconut and make sure that your bread is vegan friendly.

    Is this French toast suitable for baby led weaning?

    Yes, these are great for baby led weaning. Follow the instructions below to cut them in to sticks and then leave out the maple syrup, as babies don't need the added sugar. Serve with some yogurt on the side and your little one can practise their dipping skills.

    How to make French toast sticks

    These are really easy to make in to sticks. Cut them in to 1 inch wide sticks and then dip them in the egg mixture and follow the rest of the instructions.

    Can you freeze healthy French toast?

    French toast actually holds up really well in the freezer. Firstly, make sure you don't add any toppings to it. Then, wait for it to fully cool to room temperature and then individually wrap and then place in freezer bags. This will then keep fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months.
    Once defrosted, you can stick it in the toaster to warm it up or in the oven for 5-10 minutes.

    Extra tips

    • To freeze, allow to cool to room temperature and then individually wrap and then store in a freezer bag. Once defrosted you can reheat in the toaster.
    • Try to use 2 day old bread, as this will stop the French toast from becoming too soggy.
    • Make a toddler friendly version of this by leaving out the maple syrup and then cutting it in to sticks.
    • You can lighten this up even more by using just egg whites, rather than whole eggs.

    More breakfast recipes

    • Apple Pie Porridge
    • Smashed Avocado on Toast 5 Ways
    • How To Make a Smoothie Bowl
    • Overnight Oats (10 Ways)
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    Recipe

    Four slices of healthy French toast with berries on top

    Healthy French Toast

    This French toast is made a lot lighter really easily and there is no sacrifice on taste either.
    the words low fat in a white circle.
    Low Fat
    An illustration of a v-shaped plant.
    Vegetarian
    4.74 from 79 votes
    Author: Dannii
    Pin Print
    Course: Breakfast
    Cuisine: French
    Prep Time: 2 minutes
    Cook Time: 4 minutes
    Total Time: 6 minutes
    Allergens:
    An illustration of a carton of milk.
    Dairy
    An illustration of a cracked egg.
    Eggs
    An illustration of two ears of wheat.
    Gluten
    Servings: 2 servings
    Calories: 257kcal
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Ingredients

    UK Metric Measures - US Customary Measures
    • 4 slice wholewheat bread
    • 2 eggs
    • 200 ml skimmed milk
    • 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
    • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
    • 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 0.5 orange juice and zest only

    Instructions

    • Add the eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, maple syrup and orange juice and zest to a bowl and mix well.
    • Dip the bread in the mixture one slice at a time until the mixture soaks in to it.
    • Add a little butter to a pan and add the soaked slices of bread. Cook for around 2-3 minutes on each side, turned every minute or so.

    Notes

    • To freeze, allow to cool to room temperature and then individually wrap and then store in a freezer bag. Once defrosted you can reheat in the toaster.
    • Try to use 2 day old bread, as this will stop the French toast from becoming too soggy.
    • Make a toddler friendly version of this by leaving out the maple syrup and then cutting it in to sticks.
    • You can lighten this up even more by using just egg whites, rather than whole eggs.

    Nutritional Information

    Serving: 2slices | Calories: 257kcal | Carbohydrates: 36g | Protein: 17g | Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 166mg | Sodium: 330mg | Potassium: 437mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 18g | Vitamin A: 515IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 237mg | Iron: 2mg
    DisclaimerThe nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Emma White

      March 04, 2016 at 2:57 pm

      oh this looks and sounds amazing we so need to try this

      Reply
    2. Tanya Brannan

      March 04, 2016 at 11:05 am

      5 stars
      I love French Toast but have only had it the unhealthier way. I will definitely be giving this a go though x

      Reply
    3. Ashley

      March 03, 2016 at 10:28 pm

      haha I'm the same way - total creature of habit for breakfast during the week. But I love making something different on the weekends. This lighter french toast looks delicious!

      Reply
    4. Life as Mum

      March 03, 2016 at 8:52 pm

      5 stars
      I haven't had French toast for years and years! Shall make some soon

      Reply
    5. Zoë IKIWN

      March 03, 2016 at 7:00 pm

      5 stars
      Oh I love French toast, it's absolutely gorgeous and tends to be a Saturday breakfast for us at home. For those that do want a lighter option this recipe would be really great! x

      Reply
    6. Rachelle @ Beer Girl Cooks

      March 03, 2016 at 5:47 pm

      PJ's are always recommended for lovely weekend breakfasts! This French toast looks perfect!

      Reply
    7. marcie

      March 03, 2016 at 5:12 pm

      5 stars
      I love doing fun, indulgent breakfasts for weekends and especially holidays. French toast is always a hit here, and I love how you lightened this up -- it looks delicious!

      Reply
    8. Cheyanne @ No Spoon Necessary

      March 03, 2016 at 1:58 pm

      5 stars
      I love me a good brunch, it is probably my favorite meal of the week. And I happen to loooove french toast, like maybe a little too much for my waist line. So THANK YOU for lightening it up for me! I haven't tried a2 milk yet, because I just can't part with my beloved almond milk, but you have inspired me to give it a try. Cheers, Dannii! ;)

      Reply
    9. Jessica

      March 03, 2016 at 1:54 pm

      Looking forward for the weekend and enjoy this recipe for a relaxing breakfast. ;)

      Reply
    10. Elizabeth

      March 03, 2016 at 1:46 pm

      5 stars
      That is exactly how I make my French Toast, but I sprinkle additional cinnamon in between bread soakings (or else the first slice gets all the cinnamon!). Yummy :)

      Reply
    11. Alice @ Hip Foodie Mom

      March 03, 2016 at 1:25 pm

      Dannii, I love french toast and love your whole wheat version! delicious!

      Reply
    12. georgina prince (was Davies)

      March 03, 2016 at 10:31 am

      5 stars
      I love French toast but it's really not great for you! A healthy alternative is a great idea its pretty low fat as well. I like the low fat version recipes for full breakfasts x

      Reply
    13. Tara | C&CO.

      March 03, 2016 at 10:28 am

      I love french toast, I haven't had it for ages!

      Reply
    14. [email protected]

      March 03, 2016 at 9:15 am

      5 stars
      I've got to say that Lynne and I are also creatures of habit too Dannii!

      Usually the same breakfast during the week, porridge or some kind of oat based recipe.

      And exactly the same too for us, as with yourself and Dave on a Sunday. Something a bit more indulgent for breakfast. Something cooked, or maybe a later brunch.

      Lynne would love this healthy French toast. Pinned!

      Reply
    15. Michele Lian

      March 03, 2016 at 4:48 am

      5 stars
      I LOVE French toast! My latest love with French toast is homemade palm sugar syrup, which has a dark brown color and a very distinct, fragrant flavor, somewhat similar to maple syrup. Because it's so flavorful and not just sweet, I use less of it. Thank you for sharing the tip on the a2 milk--I'd love to try it when it becomes available where I am. Just curious, what are the biggest differences you've noticed after switching to this milk? Is it less bloating, indigestion, general gut discomfort, etc?
      Thank you again :)
      -Michele.

      Reply
    16. WhatLauraLoves

      March 03, 2016 at 3:52 am

      5 stars
      I really like French toast so to find a healthier version is great news for me! xxx

      Reply
    17. GiGi Eats

      March 03, 2016 at 3:38 am

      5 stars
      I have never had ACTUAL french toast before in my life, but I KNOW I would adore it - I mean, who doesn't adore BREAD?!?!?!?! :D

      Reply
    18. Ana De- Jesus

      March 03, 2016 at 12:02 am

      Ooh I have never had healthy French toast before but the addition of fruit I think makes it sound even better!

      Reply
    19. Rebecca Smith

      March 02, 2016 at 10:03 pm

      5 stars
      Oh yum, I think I might have to have this on Mothers Day!

      Reply
    20. nicol

      March 02, 2016 at 10:03 pm

      5 stars
      i love french toast and had never thought of using wholemeal bread! ill have to do it next time

      Reply
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