National French Toast Day
On November 28, we celebrate National French Toast Day to express our love for one of the best breakfast dishes around the world - The French Toast.
Whether you prefer it topping with powdered sugar, syrup, or fruit, French toast is a versatile and comfort meal that can be enjoyed at any place, any time of the day.
Be it a cozy solo breakfast, a fun brunch with friends or a get-together with the family, this delicious delicacy has earned its place on tables worldwide. Therefore, it is only right that to celebrate this delicacy, there is a separate day dedicated to it.
Although the origins of this day are not clear, the dish itself has a very rich history.
History of French Toast
The origin of French toast goes back to Ancient Rome after the dish called Aliter Dulcia which was found in the cookbook Apicius which was created in the 1st century.
This early version did not mention the use of eggs, still it is considered one of the oldest versions of the French Toast.
Eggs and sugar to the dish were included in the recipe during the 14th century, when French chef Guillaume Taillevent wrote a recipe for tostées dorées in his cookbook Le Viandier.
A similar dish named Arme Ritter which translates to Poor Knights made an appearance in Germany around the same time. This name is still used in English and in Nordic Languages till date.
Pain Perdu translating to lost bread gained massive popularity in England by the 15th century with popular culinary figures like Martino da Como suggesting different recipes. This dish gave people an opportunity to utilize stale breads by soaking it in milk and eggs.
A Spanish author Francisco Martínez Motiño published one of the very first French toast recipes in Spain, encouraging the dish to further spread its wings throughout Europe.
It became known as Pofesen due to its resemblance to medieval knights’ shields in Bavaria and Austria. In Hungary, the dish is called bundáskenyér (“fluffy bread”).
In Ottoman cuisine, a similar dish called fāvniyye was made with bread soaked in eggs and honey, but without milk. Over time, French toast has changed in different cultures and is now enjoyed worldwide.
Types of French Toast
- Classic French Toast: Thick slices of bread dipped in a mixture of eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla, then cooked until golden brown and served with maple syrup.
- French Omelette Toast: A delicious fusion of an omelette and toast, where bread is dipped in a seasoned egg mixture and cooked until golden.
- Stuffed French Toast: Bread stuffed with cream cheese, fruit, or chocolate, dipped in the egg mixture, and cooked to perfection.
- Baked French Toast: Prepared in a casserole dish and baked in the oven, often topped with fruit, nuts, or a streusel.
- Bananas Foster French Toast: Topped with a rich sauce made from bananas, butter, brown sugar, and rum, inspired by the classic dessert.
- Pumpkin Spice French Toast: A seasonal variation that includes pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in the egg mixture.
- Maple Bacon French Toast: Combines sweet and savory flavors with crispy bacon and a hint of maple syrup.
- Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast: A fun twist on the classic sandwich, filled with peanut butter and jelly, then dipped and cooked.
Celebrate National French Toast Day
French toast is a comforting favorite with crispy edges and a soft, creamy center. The best way to celebrate National French Toast Day is by indulging in this delicious dish, whether with sweet or savory toppings.
With endless variations, from stuffed French toast to healthier options made with whole grain bread, there’s something for everyone. You can stick to the classic recipe or get creative by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or filling your toast with cream cheese and fruit.
Not in the mood to cook? Head to a café to enjoy gourmet options like caramelized bananas or whipped mascarpone. Feeling adventurous? Try using croissants or brioche for an indulgent twist, or explore savory versions with cheese and herbs. However, you choose to enjoy it, French toast offers endless possibilities to share with others.
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