French Toast Combo Recipe

Cook bacon

Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Arrange 4 bacon strips in a single layer. Cook, turning occasionally, until browned and crisp to your liking, about 8–12 minutes. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain. Keep pan drippings in the pan for extra flavor or discard and wipe clean if you prefer.

Cook sausages (alternative)

If using sausage links instead of bacon, heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tsp neutral oil. Add 4 sausage links and cook, turning regularly, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and are browned all over, 10–12 minutes. Transfer to a plate and rest for a few minutes. Wipe pan clean if necessary before making the French toast.

Make the batter: In a shallow wide bowl or pie dish, crack 2 large eggs and whisk briefly to break. Add 1 cup whole milk, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well combined and slightly frothy.

Preheat pan and prepare bread: Place a large nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add 1–2 tablespoons unsalted butter and let it melt and foam but not burn. Meanwhile, if baguette slices are very fresh and soft, let them sit 5 minutes to dry slightly so they absorb custard without falling apart.

Soak the slices: One at a time, lay a baguette slice in the batter and let it soak for 10–20 seconds per side for slightly firm bread, or 30–40 seconds per side for drier, thicker pieces — you want the center moistened but not falling apart. Lift and let excess drip back into the dish.

Cook the French toast: Place soaked slices into the preheated skillet (work in batches if needed). Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and set in the center. Add a little more butter to the pan between batches as needed. Total for four slices should be about 8–12 minutes.

Keep warm: Transfer cooked slices to a baking sheet and keep warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while finishing remaining slices, if desired.

Plate: Arrange four slices of baguette French toast on a plate. Add the cooked bacon or sausage on the side (4 pieces).

Garnish and serve: Dot with 1 tablespoon butter if using, dust with 1 tsp powdered sugar (optional), scatter a handful of fresh berries, and serve with maple syrup to taste. Serve immediately.