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National French Toast Day

Food · November 28

French toast is bread soaked in egg and milk, then cooked in a pan until golden. Here is what it is and how people make it at home.

National French Toast Day falls on Saturday, November 28, 2026. That is 32 days away.

French toast starts with bread that is a little past its best. Slices are dipped in a mix of beaten eggs and milk, then cooked in a buttered pan until the outside turns golden and the middle sets into something soft, close to custard.

The bread matters more than people expect. Thick slices of brioche or challah soak up the egg without falling apart, and a day-old loaf holds its shape better than a fresh one. Thin sandwich bread works too, though it cooks fast and wants a gentler soak.

Toppings are where households tend to disagree. Maple syrup and butter are the usual pair. Others reach for powdered sugar, fresh berries, sliced bananas or a spoon of jam. A pinch of cinnamon or a little vanilla in the egg mix is common, and some cooks add a splash of orange zest.

Because the batter is raw egg, the slices need to cook all the way through. Medium heat helps here. Too hot and the outside browns while the center stays wet, so give each side a few minutes and check that the middle is firm, not runny.

Some people bake it instead, layering soaked bread in a dish and letting the oven do the work, which makes it easy to feed a full table at once. The leftovers, if there are any, reheat well in a toaster.

Ways to celebrate

• Make French toast with a loaf of day-old bread.
• Try brioche or challah for a thicker, softer slice.
• Add cinnamon or vanilla to the egg mixture.
• Set out several toppings and let everyone build their own plate.
• Bake a tray of French toast for a group breakfast.

Dates

All national days on November 28

Also on November 28

• Red Planet Day
• Small Business Saturday

Categories: Food days