There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm stack of french toast, golden and fragrant, inviting you to slow down and savor the moment. But what if you could enjoy this classic breakfast favorite without eggs or dairy, yet still capture all its rich, satisfying flavors? Enter Nora Cooks’ “Deliciously Simple Vegan French Toast” recipe-a welcome twist that combines simplicity with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, curious cook, or simply seeking a new morning treat, this recipe offers an easy, approachable way to start your day with plant-powered comfort.
Deliciously Simple vegan French toast brings the timeless comfort of a classic breakfast with a compassionate and wholesome twist. Rooted in the tradition of soaking bread in a spiced custard, this version thrives by embracing plant-based ingredients that result in a perfectly fluffy, golden, and crisp delight. Inspired by the vibrant flavors and textures Nora Cooks is known for, this recipe pairs the richness of almond milk and chickpea flour with a melody of warming spices-creating a signature flavor that’s both nostalgic and invigorating.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 hearty portions
Difficulty Level
Easy - Ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike
Ingredients
- 1 cup chickpea flour (besan), sifted
- 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp baking powder
- Pinch of sea salt
- 8 thick slices of sturdy vegan bread (day-old or slightly toasted works best)
- 2 tbsp coconut oil or vegan butter, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together chickpea flour, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and sea salt until smooth.The batter should be thick but pourable-if it seems too thick, add a splash of almond milk to loosen.
- Preheat your skillet: Heat a non-stick pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegan butter, ensuring an even coating.
- Dip the bread: Submerge each slice of bread into the batter, allowing it to soak up the custard for about 20 seconds per side.For optimal fluffiness, avoid oversaturating; a gentle soak lets the bread retain structure.
- Cook the French toast: place soaked bread into the hot skillet. Sauté until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side. Flip carefully with a spatula to preserve the fluffy texture inside.
- Repeat: Add more oil or vegan butter as needed between batches to achieve consistent color and crispness.
- Serve immediately: Arrange the French toast slices on warm plates and garnish as desired for an elevated breakfast presentation.
Tips for Success when Making Deliciously Simple Vegan French Toast
- choose the right bread: Thick,sturdy slices from sourdough,ciabatta,or whole grain work best-they absorb batter without turning mushy.
- Batter consistency matters: A too-thick batter will result in a cakey texture; a too-thin one will drip off the bread. Aim for a creamy custard feel.
- Temperature control: Medium heat ensures the exterior crisps without burning while the interior cooks through.
- Flavor variations: Swap cinnamon for cardamom or add a splash of orange zest for a luminous twist.
- Make ahead: Prepare the batter in advance and refrigerate; whisk gently before use to reincorporate.
Creative serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Vegan Breakfast experience
Transform your vegan French toast into a culinary masterpiece with inventive toppings and sides. Fresh berries like raspberries and blueberries provide a refreshing tartness that brightens the plate, while a drizzle of warm maple syrup enhances each bite’s natural sweetness. Consider a dollop of coconut whipped cream or a scattering of toasted pecans for added texture and indulgence. For a rustic appeal, pile slices atop a smear of oat-based yogurt and garnish with a sprinkle of chia seeds and edible flowers.
Pair with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice or a rich, spiced chai latte to round out the experience. For extra decadence, serve alongside sautéed bananas caramelized in maple syrup and cinnamon.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
Explore more plant-based breakfast ideas and fuel your day with wholesome flavors. for nutritional science on chickpea flour benefits, visit this detailed study by NCBI.
Q&A
Q&A: Deliciously Simple Vegan French Toast | Nora Cooks Recipe
Q1: What makes Nora Cooks’ Vegan French Toast recipe stand out?
A1: Nora Cooks’ Vegan French Toast is celebrated for its simplicity and deliciously satisfying results. Unlike conventional French toast, this recipe uses plant-based ingredients that are easy to find and whip up, making it perfect for both seasoned vegans and curious beginners alike. The balance of flavors and textures mimics the classic dish beautifully, proving that plant-based doesn’t mean compromising on taste.
Q2: What are the key ingredients in this vegan French toast?
A2: The recipe primarily features plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk), chickpea flour or all-purpose flour, a touch of maple syrup for natural sweetness, vanilla extract for aroma, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Bread choice is critically important too-slightly stale, thick-cut bread works best to soak up the batter without falling apart.
Q3: How does Nora Cooks achieve the perfect texture without eggs?
A3: Rather of eggs,this vegan recipe relies on a clever blend of flours and plant milks that create a batter thick enough to cling to the bread.Chickpea flour, in particular, adds a subtle density and protein that helps the slices hold together while cooking, resulting in a crisp exterior and tender interior.
Q4: Can this recipe be customized for different dietary needs?
A4: Absolutely. The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you swap in gluten-free bread and flour alternatives. For nut allergies, use oat or rice milk instead of almond milk. Nora’s recipe is versatile and forgiving, perfect for adapting spices or sweeteners to personal preference.
Q5: What toppings does Nora reccommend to elevate the Vegan French Toast?
A5: Fresh berries, sliced bananas, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, powdered sugar, or even a dollop of coconut yogurt are great choices. Nora also suggests toasted nuts for added crunch or a sprinkle of chia seeds for a nutritional boost. These toppings complement the warm, spiced flavors of the toast beautifully.
Q6: How long does it take to prepare and cook this French toast?
A6: The prep time is minimal-about 5 to 10 minutes to mix the batter and soak the bread. Cooking each batch takes roughly 3 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown. this recipe can be ready in under 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a swift, wholesome breakfast.
Q7: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep or freezing?
A7: While best enjoyed fresh for crispness,the vegan French toast can be made in batches and stored in the fridge for a day or two. Reheating in a toaster or skillet helps retain texture. Freezing cooked slices is possible but may alter the texture slightly-thaw and reheat gently for best results.
Q8: Where can readers find the full recipe?
A8: The complete recipe, including step-by-step instructions and tips, is available on Nora Cooks’ official blog.It’s a delightful read for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting, plant-based breakfast that’s both approachable and utterly delicious.
In Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply curious about plant-based breakfasts, Nora Cooks’ Deliciously Simple Vegan French Toast offers a perfect blend of ease and flavor. With just a few wholesome ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe transforms a classic comfort food into a cruelty-free treat that anyone can enjoy. So next time you crave a cozy morning indulgence, give this vegan twist a try-you might just discover your new favorite way to start the day.
