Starting Your Day the Cracker Barrel Way!
Among its many breakfast favorites, the Cracker Barrel French Toast recipe stands out as a star. This perfect French toast, known for its golden brown exterior and fluffy interior, is a classic breakfast dish that has won our hearts. We’ll show you how to make this beloved dish right in your own kitchen the easy way!
Ingredients
Let’s start with the essentials. The star of this french toast recipe is, of course, the bread. Cracker Barrel uses thick slices of sourdough bread, which offers a slight tang and a sturdy texture that holds up well in the egg mixture. For our copycat Cracker Barrel recipe, you’ll need slices of Texas toast or a similar kind of bread. The thicker the slice, the better it absorbs the flavors without getting soggy.
Next, the egg mixture – the heart of the Cracker Barrel French Toast recipe. In a large bowl, combine eggs, milk, a touch of vanilla, and a hint of cinnamon or apple pie spice for that signature flavor. You could even add a small amount of sugar for a hint of sweetness. Then whisk the mixture vigorously until thoroughly blended. This helps get that evenly cooked French toast with a golden brown color that everyone loves.
Finally, the toppings and syrups – where you can really let your creativity shine!
While maple syrup is a classic choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with apple pie filling, cinnamon apples, or even a dollop of cream cheese for a richer twist.
Fresh fruits, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, chocolate chips, or crumbled bacon are also super yummy!
Step by Step
The first step in our Cracker Barrel French Toast recipe is to soak the bread slices.
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak up the flavors without becoming too soggy. A few seconds on each side should be enough for thick slices of bread like Texas toast.
Next, the cooking. Heat your griddle or pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. This prevents sticking and adds to the flavor.
Place the soaked bread slices on the griddle and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. You’re looking for that perfect golden brown color and a slightly crispy edge. Keep an eye on the heat; too high, and you risk burnt French toast, too low, and it’ll be soggy.
As you cook, the exterior crisps up beautifully, while the inside remains soft and moist. Once cooked, remove the French toast from the griddle and place them on the wire rack. This little resting time allows the toast to settle and the flavors to really come together to achieve that Cracker Barrel quality!
Toppings
A classic choice is a drizzle of maple syrup, but why stop there? Dress it up with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a dollop of whipped cream.
Fresh fruits, like strawberries or blueberries, not only add a burst of freshness, but also a vibrant pop of color.
And hey, seasons change, so should our french toast!
In the fall, change things up with a spoonful of apple pie filling or a sprinkle of apple pie spice.
Winter calls for indulgence – imagine gingerbread spiced french toast with peppermint whipped cream!
Spring is perfect for lighter toppings; think lemon curd or a berry compote, bringing a slight tang and a burst of freshness.
Summer, with its harvest of fruits, is ideal for homemade fruit syrups or fresh peaches.
Texture is important, too. Add something with a crunch, like chopped nuts or granola.
For a creamy element, a scoop of cream cheese or a drizzle of caramel sauce works wonders.
Keto Adaptation
Making a keto-friendly version of the Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe requires some creativity. Begin with a low-carb bread – there are many keto-friendly bread recipes online that use almond or coconut flour.
For the egg mixture, stick to eggs and heavy cream, avoiding milk to keep the carbs low. Cook each slice of bread on a preheated griddle until they reach that coveted golden-brown perfection.
Top with sugar-free syrups, a handful of berries, or a homemade keto-friendly whipped cream to indulge in this classic breakfast dish without breaking your keto diet.
Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe: FAQs
What Happened to Cracker Barrel French Toast?
Cracker Barrel, known for its homestyle cooking, often updates its menu. While the French toast might vanish temporarily, it’s often back by popular demand. Why? Because everyone loves that classic, comforting taste!
What is the Trick to Not Soggy French Toast?
The secret to avoiding soggy French toast lies in your bread choice and soak time. Opt for thicker, sturdier bread like brioche or challah. Let it soak just enough to absorb the egg mixture without turning into a sponge. Golden on the outside, fluffy on the inside – that’s your goal!
Is Butter or Oil Better for French Toast?
Butter wins for flavor but watch the heat! Butter burns faster than oil, so a moderate flame is key. For health-conscious cooks, a light brush of oil can do the trick too. But let’s be real – nothing beats the rich, golden taste of butter.
How Many Calories is Cracker Barrel French Toast?
A single serving of Cracker Barrel’s French toast packs around 450-600 calories, depending on your toppings and syrup. Remember, it’s all about balance. Savor the taste, enjoy every bite, and maybe take a brisk walk afterward!
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Health Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Bread | 2 slices | 138 | High in fiber |
| Eggs | 2 | 144 | Rich in protein |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | 62 | Calcium-rich |
| Cinnamon | 1 tsp | 6 | Antioxidants |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/2 tsp | 6 | Flavor enhancer |
Cracker Barrel Copycat French Toast
Course: BreakfastCuisine: FrenchDifficulty: Easy4
servings30
minutes40
minutesThis copycat Cracker Barrel French toast recipe is a perfect way to recreate a classic breakfast dish in your own kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can bring the taste of Cracker Barrel right to your breakfast table!
Ingredients
8 slices of Texas toast or thick slices of sourdough bread (stale bread works great)
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream (for a slight tang)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (or apple pie spice for a twist)
Pinch of salt
Butter, for cooking
Maple syrup, for serving
Optional toppings: fresh fruits, whipped cream, powdered sugar
Directions
- Prep Your Bread and Egg Mixture:
- Start by slicing your bread into thick slices if not already pre-sliced. Stale bread is preferred as it absorbs the egg mixture better without falling apart.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This creates the rich and flavorful milk mixture that’s a signature of good French toast.
- Soak and Cook:
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds on each side. Be careful not to oversoak, which can lead to soggy toast.
- Heat a preheated griddle or skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter to grease the surface.
- Place the soaked bread slices on the griddle. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until each side is golden brown. Avoid flipping them too often to get that perfect crust.
- Serve with Flair:
- Serve your cooked French toast warm. For the classic Cracker Barrel experience, drizzle with maple syrup.
- Elevate it further with your favorite toppings like fresh fruits, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Notes
- For an Even Cook: Use a wire rack on top of a baking sheet in a warm oven to keep cooked French toast warm while cooking the remaining slices. This helps keep them crispy and warm.
- Variation for the Egg Mixture: For a different twist, add a bit of orange zest or swap cinnamon with apple pie spice.