Lemon French Toasts Recipe

Lemon French Toasts

Lemon French Toasts is a delightful and citrusy twist on the classic French toast recipe. The refreshing zest of lemon paired with the creamy custard-soaked bread creates a wonderfully fragrant and flavorful breakfast treat. This version is topped with a luscious berry compote that adds sweetness and tanginess, perfectly complementing the lemony notes of the toasts. It's an easy and quick recipe that brings a bit of brightness to your morning, making it perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion breakfast. Enjoying a plate of Lemon French Toasts feels like a touch of sunshine on your plate, promising to start your day on a happy note.

Lemon French Toasts Ingredients

▪️ 1 large loaf of brioche or challah bread
▪️ 4 large eggs
▪️ 1 cup whole milk
▪️ 1 cup heavy cream
▪️ 2 tbsp granulated sugar
▪️ 1 tsp vanilla extract
▪️ Zest of 1 lemon
▪️ 2 tbsp melted butter (for cooking)
▪️ Fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
▪️ ½ cup granulated sugar (for compote)
▪️ 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

How to make Lemon French Toasts

Step 1: Slice the brioche or challah bread into thick slices, about 1 inch thick.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until well combined.

Step 3: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are fully soaked.

Step 4: Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add the melted butter.

Step 5: Place the soaked bread slices onto the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 6: In a small saucepan, combine the fresh berries, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and fresh lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the berries burst and the sauce thickens, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 7: Serve the French toasts warm, topped with the berry compote and additional lemon zest if desired.

Overview of Lemon French Toasts


Category Details
Preparation Time15 minutes
Cooking Time15 minutes
Servings4-6 servings
Nutritional InformationProtein: 8g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fats: 18g
Energy1422 kJ (340 cal)
Main IngredientsBrioche bread, eggs, milk, cream, lemon zest
Sauce IngredientsFresh berries, sugar, lemon juice
Cooking MethodFrying
Meal CategoriesBreakfast, Brunch, Comfort Food
Key FlavorsSweet, citrusy, tangy
TextureSoft, custardy, slightly crisp
Dietary InformationContains dairy, gluten
Allergen InformationContains wheat, dairy, eggs
Storage TipsStore leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven
Serving SuggestionsTop with fresh mint, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar

Fun Facts about Lemon French Toasts

▪️ French Toast is known by various names around the world, including "pain perdu" in France, which means "lost bread," a reference to using stale bread.
▪️ The addition of lemon zest to the custard mixture brings a refreshing twist that balances the richness of the creamy custard.
▪️ French toast dates back to ancient Rome, where it was called "pan dulcis" and was made by soaking bread in milk and then frying it.

Lemon French Toasts Pairing Suggestions

▪️ Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice - The citrus notes of the orange juice enhance the lemon flavor in the toasts, creating a zesty and refreshing pairing.

▪️ Herbal Tea - A calming herbal tea such as chamomile or peppermint can complement the sweet and tangy flavors of the lemon French toasts.

▪️ Fruit Salad - A medley of fresh fruits like kiwi, pineapple, and grapes adds more natural sweetness and freshness, making the meal feel more wholesome and balanced.

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