How to Make Perfect French Toast: A Step-by-Step Guide

French toast, known in France as pain perdu (literally “lost bread”), has a long and storied history, with variations found in many cultures.

Did you know that French toast has roots as far back as Ancient Rome? The earliest version was called aliter dulcia, meaning "another sweet dish." Back then, Romans soaked bread in milk and eggs before frying it—a method that’s surprisingly close to how we make it today.

In medieval Europe, it was known as pain perdu, or "lost bread." The idea was to save stale bread that would otherwise be wasted. By soaking it in a mixture of milk, eggs, and sometimes sugar, then frying it until golden, they turned it into something delicious. It was a practical and thrifty way for families to transform old bread into a treat, often served with sweet toppings.

As time went on, French toast traveled across the globe, adapting to each culture it touched. In Spain, it became torrijas, a dish often eaten during Easter, soaked in wine or honey for extra flavor. In the United States, French toast grew into a breakfast favorite, typically served with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and butter.

These days, variations abound. You might find it made with rich breads like brioche or challah, topped with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even savory ingredients. The possibilities are endless!

And here’s a fun fact: French toast wasn't always called that in the U.S. Legend has it that in the early 18th century, an innkeeper named Joseph French advertised his creation as "French Toast." He left out the apostrophe that would indicate it was his recipe—and the name just stuck!