After an indulgent weekend camping trip filled with laughter and gooey marshmallows, I found myself craving the comforts of home—not in the form of takeout, but something that recreated that cozy campfire magic. Enter the S'mores French Toast, a delightful twist on a breakfast classic that combines nostalgia with a love for homemade deliciousness. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser that's not only easy to make but also sure to brighten any morning. Imagine crispy, cinnamon-dusted bread layered with luscious chocolate and fluffy mini marshmallows—it's a breakfast treat that feels like dessert! As we dive into this delightful recipe, I can’t help but wonder: how will you enjoy your S'mores French Toast—classic style, or perhaps with a fun twist of your own?
Why is S'mores French Toast so special?
Nostalgic Flavor: This recipe perfectly captures the cozy essence of campfire nights with chocolate and marshmallows.
Quick and Easy: In just 25 minutes, you’ll create a delicious, indulgent breakfast without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s a hit for both kids and adults, guaranteeing smiles at the breakfast table.
Versatile Twist: Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or add-ins for a unique spin!
Irresistible Texture: Enjoy the crispy, golden bread enveloping gooey chocolate and fluffy marshmallows for a memorable bite.
S'mores French Toast Ingredients
• To bring your S'mores French Toast to life, here are the essential elements you'll need:
For the French Toast
- Bread – Choose your favorite bread for a delightful base; thicker slices work best for holding the toppings.
- Half-and-half – Adds richness; you can substitute with whole milk for a lighter option.
- Eggs – Essential for the custard base; feel free to use egg substitutes if desired.
- Vanilla extract – This enhances the flavor; pure vanilla is recommended for the best taste.
- Salt – Just a pinch enhances the sweetness of the dish.
- Cinnamon – Adds a warm, aromatic kick that complements the chocolate beautifully.
For the S'mores Toppings
- Graham cracker crumbs – These provide that signature s'mores flavor; you can crush cookies if you prefer.
- Chocolate – Choose your favorite chocolate type, whether dark, milk, or even white; it makes this S'mores French Toast decadent.
- Mini marshmallows – Their fluffiness contrasts wonderfully with the rich chocolate; feel free to use larger marshmallows if that's what you have on hand.
- Butter – For greasing the skillet, ensuring your toast cooks perfectly without sticking.
These delightful ingredients come together to create a breakfast experience that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for S’mores French Toast
Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Begin by heating a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. This will ensure the S’mores French Toast cooks evenly. While the skillet warms, place a tablespoon of butter in it, allowing it to melt completely and coat the surface for a non-stick finish. You’ll know it’s ready when the butter starts bubbling gently.
Step 2: Whisk the Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, ⅓ cup of half-and-half, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ⅛ teaspoon of salt. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color. This custard-like mixture is crucial for soaking the bread, so make sure it's well combined for the best flavor.
Step 3: Coat the Bread
Take 4 pieces of your favorite thick bread and dip each piece into the egg mixture. Ensure both sides are fully coated, allowing excess to drip off. This step is essential to creating the delightful base for your S’mores French Toast. The bread should look somewhat soggy but not falling apart.
Step 4: Add Graham Cracker Crust
Next, gently press each coated piece of bread into the graham cracker crumbs. Make sure to press lightly so that the crumbs adhere well to the bread. This step gives your S’mores French Toast that iconic flavor, resembling the delightful texture of graham crackers you’d find in a traditional s’mores treat.
Step 5: Cook the French Toast
Place the coated bread pieces onto the heated skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they become golden brown and crispy. You'll know they're ready to flip when the edges firm up and the underside is a delicious golden hue. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect crispiness!
Step 6: Prepare for the Oven
Once the French toast is cooked, transfer the golden slices to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This helps keep them warm while you prepare the rest. Preheat your oven’s broiler to high; it will create that deliciously toasted layer of marshmallows in the final step.
Step 7: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the chopped chocolate generously on each piece of cooked French toast, followed by a layer of 1.5 cups of mini marshmallows. Don't be shy with the chocolate—it's what makes your S’mores French Toast feel indulgent! You can even add a bit more chocolate on top to make it extra decadent.
Step 8: Broil to Perfection
Carefully place the baking sheet under the broiler for about 30 seconds. Watch closely—this step can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in no time! The marshmallows should puff up and turn golden brown, ensuring that fluffy, gooey texture that completes your S’mores French Toast beautifully.
Step 9: Serve Immediately
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the S’mores French Toast cool for a moment before serving. Enjoy it warm, right out of the oven—perhaps paired with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or fresh berries for an extra touch of sweetness.
Variations & Substitutions for S'mores French Toast
Feel free to get creative and personalize your S'mores French Toast to match your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make a deliciously inclusive option for those avoiding gluten. It holds up just as well with the topping delights!
- Dairy-Free: Swap half-and-half with almond milk or coconut milk to enjoy a creamy experience without the dairy. This twist brings a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
- Nutty Flavor: Add a tablespoon of almond or hazelnut butter to the egg mixture for an earthy richness. It compliments the chocolate and marshmallows wonderfully, creating layers of flavor.
- Extra Chocolate: For a chocolate lover’s dream, mix chocolate chips into the egg mixture before soaking the bread. Each bite will envelop you in oozing chocolate goodness.
- Flavor Twist: Substitute cinnamon with nutmeg or cardamom for a unique spice flair that dances on your taste buds. These spices add depth and earthiness to your breakfast experience.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the egg mixture for a delightful spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the marshmallows and chocolate. It’s an unexpected flavor explosion!
- Fruit Add-Ins: Consider adding sliced bananas or berries in between layers of toast before broiling for a fruity freshness that brightens every bite. The sweetness brings a lovely contrast to the chocolate.
- S’mores Style: Use flavored marshmallows, such as chocolate or mint, to bring a new twist to the classic flavor. These mini marshmallows can transform your S’mores French Toast into a new favorite!
No matter how you choose to customize this recipe, the warm, gooey, and golden results will surely bring joy to your breakfast table!
Expert Tips for S’mores French Toast
Bread Choice: Use thick slices of bread like brioche or challah to hold the toppings better without falling apart.
Egg Soak Time: Don’t rush the soaking! Allow the bread to absorb enough of the custard mixture to ensure a flavorful, moist center.
Graham Cracker Coating: Press the bread into the graham cracker crumbs firmly to ensure they adhere well, creating that signature s'mores crunch.
Broiler Watch: Keep a close eye on the broiler! The marshmallows can quickly go from golden to charred, so stay nearby during this final step.
Topping Variations: Feel free to mix it up with toppings! Try peanut butter chips or a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate your S'mores French Toast experience.
Make Ahead Options
These S’mores French Toast slices are perfect for busy mornings and can truly save you some time! You can prep the bread and custard mixture up to 24 hours ahead by dipping the bread into the egg mixture and coating it with graham cracker crumbs, then refrigerate the coated slices. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply heat your skillet, cook the bread for a few minutes until golden, and then layer on the chocolate and marshmallows. Broil for just 30 seconds to get that perfect toasted marshmallow finish. By prepping in advance, you’ll have a comforting breakfast ready in no time, ensuring that each bite is just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze S'mores French Toast
Fridge: Store any leftover S'mores French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its deliciousness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze it, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. It can last up to 2 months, perfect for a quick treat!
Reheating: To reheat, simply toast from frozen in a toaster oven until warmed through, or place in the microwave for 30-45 seconds. Enjoy the same gooey goodness!
Serving Fresh: For the best taste, serve immediately after preparation, as S'mores French Toast is truly at its best when warm and fresh!
What to Serve with S'mores French Toast
A breakfast that feels like a dessert deserves delightful companions to create a well-rounded experience.
- Crispy Bacon: The salty, crunchy texture perfectly balances the sweetness of the S'mores French Toast, adding a savory note to each bite.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries provide a refreshing contrast and a pop of color, brightening up your plate beautifully.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup brings an extra layer of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor while introducing a beautiful, sticky texture.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that complements the decadent chocolate and marshmallows. It’s indulgence redefined!
- Breakfast Sausages: Sweet or spicy sausages introduce a hearty element, balancing the sweetness and giving you a satisfying breakfast experience.
- Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint tea provide a calming balance to your sweet breakfast, making each sip a lovely palate cleanser.
- Chocolate Milk: For a delightful throwback, a glass of chocolate milk echoes the rich chocolate within the French toast, making it a fun pairing. Enjoy this nostalgic twist!
S'mores French Toast Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bread for S'mores French Toast?
I recommend using thick slices of bread, like brioche or challah. These types hold up beautifully against the custard and toppings without becoming soggy. If you prefer whole-grain options, that also works well for a nutty flavor and texture!
How should I store leftover S'mores French Toast?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the French toast cool completely before sealing it up. This will help maintain its texture and flavor, keeping your dessert breakfast as delightful as when it was freshly made!
Can I freeze S'mores French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. It can last up to 2 months! When you're ready to enjoy, simply toast from frozen in a toaster oven until warmed through, or you can microwave for 30-45 seconds.
What can I do if my marshmallows aren’t browning under the broiler?
If your marshmallows aren’t browning, it may be because they aren’t placed close enough to the heating element. Ensure your oven rack is positioned just below the broiler and keep a watchful eye! Broiling can happen quickly, so watch closely to prevent burning while getting that nice golden hue.
Are there any dietary considerations for S'mores French Toast?
If you’re concerned about allergies, this recipe contains eggs and dairy. You can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture or commercial egg replacers, and use non-dairy milk alternatives to make it more adaptable for dietary needs. Always be cautious when serving to guests with known allergies!
How long does it take to prepare S'mores French Toast?
The whole process, from prep to your first bite, takes about 25 minutes. This includes 15 minutes for prep, where you whisk the batter and coat the bread, and about 10 minutes for cooking on the stovetop and finishing in the oven. Perfect for a quick yet indulgent breakfast!
Indulgent S’mores French Toast That Will Melt Your Heart
Equipment
- large skillet
- baking sheet
- medium bowl
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 4 slices thick bread Brioche or challah recommended.
- ⅓ cup half-and-half Can substitute with whole milk.
- 2 large eggs Egg substitutes can be used.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Pure vanilla is recommended.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt Enhances sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth and aroma.
For the S'mores Toppings
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs Can crush cookies if preferred.
- 1 cup chocolate Choose your favorite type.
- 1.5 cups mini marshmallows Larger marshmallows can be used.
- 1 tablespoon butter For greasing the skillet.
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter in it.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture ensuring both sides are coated.
- Press each piece of bread into the graham cracker crumbs to adhere.
- Cook the coated bread in the skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer cooked toast to a baking sheet and preheat the broiler.
- Sprinkle chocolate and mini marshmallows generously on top of each slice.
- Broil for about 30 seconds until marshmallows are puffed and golden.
- Serve warm, perhaps with chocolate sauce or fresh berries.
