Casablanca – French toast or “pain perdu” is one of those recipes that feels like it was sent down as a gift from heaven. Whether sweet or savory, both versions are irresistible, the kind of dish you could happily enjoy again and again without getting tired of it.

Whenever I’m making or enjoying this delicious treat, it feels like I’m living in my Parisian era – as if the Eiffel Tower is just outside my window. To fully embrace that vibe, I like to refer to it by its French name: pain perdu.

What makes it special is its flexibility. This is a recipe that easily adapts to your taste. You can add, remove, or replace ingredients depending on what you like or what you have on hand. You might even create your own unique variation.

So get ready for one of the most delicious dishes you’ll ever taste (I can almost hear you whispering, “she’s exaggerating.” Right? Wait until you try it.)

Sweet pain perdu

Ingredients

Bread slices (preferably slightly stale)

2 eggs

1/2 cup milk

1-2 tbsp sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

A pinch of cinnamon (some say it’s optional, I say it’s essential)

Butter for cooking

Toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, honey, fresh fruits (banana, berries), whipped cream, crunchy speculoos spread (or any spread of your choice).

Instructions
  • In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined.
  • Spread speculoos cream between two slices of bread to form a sandwich.
  • Heat a pan over medium heat and add butter.
  • Dip the sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are evenly coated without soaking too much.
  • Place the bread in the pan and cook until golden brown on both sides.
  • Serve warm with your favorite toppings: honey, syrup, fruits, or powdered sugar. 

NB: Stay close to the pan and keep an eye on the heat. French toast can burn easily if the temperature is too high or if left unattended.

Savory pain perdu with mushrooms

Ingredients

Bread slices (slightly stale)

2 eggs

1/2 cup milk

Salt and black pepper to taste

Dried herbs (such as thyme or oregano)

Butter or olive oil

1 cup mushrooms (sliced)

Spinach

1 clove garlic (optional)

Fresh herbs (parsley or thyme)

Cheese (optional)

Instructions
  • In a bowl, whisk the eggs with milk, salt, black pepper and herbs.
  • Heat a pan with butter or olive oil, and sauté the mushrooms with garlic until soft and lightly golden. Add the spinach and spices, and cook just until wilted. Set aside.
  • Dip the bread slices into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
  • Cook the bread in the pan until golden brown on both sides.
  • Top the French toast with the sautéed mushrooms and spinach, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and add cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Et voilà… Bon appétit!