Pain Perdu
Pain perdu, or “lost bread,” is a delightful way to use up stale bread. This classic French dish is essentially a sweet version of French toast, soaked in a rich custard and cooked to golden perfection. Topped with syrup, fresh fruits, or whipped cream, pain perdu is not just a breakfast option but a versatile dessert that will impress anyone at your table.
Ingredients
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 2 people. Preparation time is 10 minutes, with a cooking time of about 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 piece) of pain perdu contains approximately 300 calories, 10g of protein, 40g of carbohydrates, and 12g of fat. Ideal for a hearty breakfast or a satisfying dessert.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start with 2 slices of day-old brioche or challah bread. 2. In a bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1/2 cup of milk, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. 3. Add a pinch of salt and a splash of vanilla extract for flavor. 4. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated. 5. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. 6. Once melted, place the soaked bread slices in the skillet. 7. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. 8. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly. 9. Serve warm, topped with syrup and fresh berries. 10. Enjoy your delicious pain perdu! 
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute brioche or challah with any bread you have on hand, such as sourdough or even gluten-free bread. For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk.
Serving and Pairings
Pain perdu pairs beautifully with maple syrup, fresh fruits like berries or bananas, and a dollop of whipped cream. It can also be served alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a toaster or skillet until warmed through. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using fresh bread instead of stale can lead to sogginess.
- Not soaking the bread long enough may result in dry toast.
- Overcrowding the skillet can lead to uneven cooking.
- Using too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside uncooked.
- Skipping the sugar will reduce the sweetness of the dish.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor.
- Consider adding a splash of orange liqueur for a gourmet touch.
- Use thick slices of bread for a heartier texture.
- Garnish with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use a mixture of flaxseed meal and water or a commercial egg replacer to achieve a similar custard effect for a vegan version.
Can I make pain perdu in advance?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the custard mixture ahead of time and soak the bread just before cooking.
How do I know when it’s done cooking?
Pain perdu should be golden brown on both sides and slightly crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.
Is pain perdu the same as French toast?
Yes, pain perdu is essentially the French version of French toast, typically sweeter and often served as a dessert.
Can I add chocolate to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips can be added to the custard or sprinkled on top before serving for a decadent twist.
Conclusion
Pain perdu is a delicious and simple dish that turns leftover bread into a sweet treat. With its rich custard base and endless topping possibilities, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Give this classic recipe a try, and elevate your mornings with this French favorite!
Pain Perdu
Ingredients
- 2 slices of brioche or challah bread
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- Pinch of salt
- Splash of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- Maple syrup for serving
- Fresh berries for garnish
Instructions
- Whisk together the egg, milk, sugar, salt, and vanilla extract in a bowl.
- Dip each slice of bread into the mixture, coating both sides.
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add butter.
- Place the soaked bread slices in the skillet.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Serve warm topped with syrup and fresh berries.