French toast is a classic breakfast favorite, beloved for its crispy edges and soft, custardy center. This recipe scales up the traditional dish to serve 100 people, making it ideal for large gatherings, brunch events, or catering. With straightforward ingredients and clear steps, you’ll deliver a crowd-pleasing meal efficiently and deliciously.
Ingredients
- 100 slices of thick-cut bread (preferably brioche or challah)
- 50 large eggs
- 6 quarts (24 cups) whole milk
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup pure vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg (optional)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 cups unsalted butter (for frying)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh fruit for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a very large mixing bowl or food-safe container, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until fully combined.
- Preheat your cooking surfaces: Set up multiple large griddles or heavy-bottomed frying pans over medium heat. Add butter to each pan, allowing it to melt and coat the surface but not burn.
- Soak the bread: Working in batches, dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture. Allow it to soak for about 15-20 seconds per side, ensuring the bread absorbs enough liquid but does not become soggy or fall apart.
- Cook the French toast: Place soaked bread slices onto the hot greased griddles or pans. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip carefully to avoid breakage.
- Keep warm: As batches finish cooking, transfer the French toast to warming trays or oven-safe pans set in a 200°F (93°C) oven. Cover loosely with foil to retain moisture without becoming soggy.
- Repeat the process: Continue soaking and cooking bread slices until all 100 slices are done. Replenish butter on pans as needed to maintain a non-stick surface and flavor.
- Serve: Arrange the French toast on large serving platters or buffet trays. Offer maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh fruit on the side for guests to customize their servings.
Tips
- Bread choice matters: Thick-cut brioche or challah works best for French toast because they absorb the custard well without disintegrating. Avoid very thin or stale bread unless you toast it lightly first.
- Batch preparation: Mix the custard in a large container and keep it refrigerated if not using immediately. Stir gently before dipping bread slices to redistribute spices and eggs.
- Butter management: Use unsalted butter for frying to control salt levels, and add fresh butter often to prevent burning and maintain flavor. Alternatively, a neutral oil with a high smoke point can be blended in for longer cooking sessions.
- Don’t overcrowd pans: Cooking too many slices at once lowers pan temperature and results in soggy or unevenly cooked French toast. Cook in manageable batches for consistent results.
Serving Suggestions
French toast is versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides. Classic accompaniments include warm maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh berries such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. For a more decadent option, offer whipped cream, chopped nuts, or flavored butters like cinnamon honey butter. On the side, crispy bacon, breakfast sausage, or fresh fruit salad complement the richness of the French toast beautifully.
Variations
To add variety or accommodate dietary needs, consider these variations:
- Vegan French toast: Replace eggs and milk with a mixture of blended silken tofu or mashed banana with plant-based milk and a pinch of turmeric for color.
- Stuffed French toast: Sandwich cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves between two slices before dipping and cooking.
- Spiced French toast: Increase cinnamon and nutmeg or add cardamom and ginger for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread slices and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Storage and Reheating
If you need to prepare French toast ahead of time, it can be stored safely in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place cooked slices in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap. For longer storage, freeze individual slices in single layers on a baking sheet, then transfer to freezer bags for up to 1 month.
To reheat refrigerated or frozen French toast, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes (longer if frozen) until heated through and crisp on the edges. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the bread soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the custard mixture the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the custard the night before and keep it refrigerated. Stir well before using to redistribute the spices and eggs. However, avoid soaking bread in advance as it will become overly soggy.
What type of bread works best for French toast?
Thick, sturdy breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast absorb custard well and hold up during cooking. Avoid very soft sandwich bread or thin slices that can fall apart.
How do I keep French toast warm and fresh before serving?
Use warming trays or an oven set to 200°F (93°C) with loosely covered foil to keep French toast warm without steaming it soggy. This method preserves crispiness and flavor until serving.
Can I make French toast gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free bread and confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free. Cooking and soaking times remain similar, but handle gluten-free bread gently as it may be less sturdy.
How do I avoid greasy French toast?
Use just enough butter to coat the pan without pooling. Cook over medium heat to avoid burning butter and excessive oiliness. Wipe excess butter from the pan between batches if needed.
Is it better to use whole milk or a milk alternative?
Whole milk gives the best richness and flavor, but you can substitute with 2% milk or unsweetened plant-based milks like almond or oat milk. Note that nutmeg and cinnamon help add warmth that plant milks may lack.
How long can I keep leftover French toast safely?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to maintain texture and food safety standards.
What’s the best way to serve French toast at a large event?
Arrange on large platters or buffet trays with toppings served separately to allow guests to customize. Keep trays warm with chafing dishes or warming drawers to maintain quality throughout service.
By following this scaled-up French toast recipe and tips, you can confidently prepare a delicious breakfast for 100 people without compromising on flavor or texture. Whether it’s a corporate brunch, wedding breakfast, or large family gathering, this recipe delivers consistently great results.
Related
- Complete List of Backstreet Boys Band Members and Line-ups
- Complete List of Blue Murder Band Members and Line-ups
- Complete List of Teenage Fanclub Band Members and Line-ups