French toast is a beloved breakfast classic—crispy on the outside, soft in the middle, and endlessly comforting. This simple vegan French toast recipe replicates all of that magic without using eggs or dairy. With a few basic plant-based ingredients, you can whip up brunch-ready slices that satisfy every craving—syrup, fresh fruit, and all.
Designed for home cooks who want a reliable, tasty, and cruelty-free breakfast option, this recipe is ideal for both everyday mornings and elevated weekend brunches. Let’s dive into how to create fluffy, golden vegan French toast that’s as easy as it is delicious.
Why This Vegan French Toast Works
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Fluffy & tender texture from plant-based milk and starch binding
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Crispy edges when pan-fried or air-fried
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Customizable flavors—plain, spiced, or fruity
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Egg-free and dairy-free using wholesome ingredients like aquafaba or chickpea flour
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Brunch-worthy presentation without complicated steps
Whether you're crafting a solo breakfast or hosting a plant-based brunch, this recipe delivers on ease and taste.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make the base batter and assemble the toast:
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8 thick slices of vegan bread (brioche‑style or whole grain)
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1 cup plant milk (almond, soy, or oat)
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2 tablespoons aquafaba (liquid from canned chickpeas) or ground flaxseed mixed with water
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1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder
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2 tablespoons maple syrup or agave
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
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Pinch of salt
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Oil or vegan butter for pan-frying
Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, sliced bananas, vegan butter, powdered sugar, or nut butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegan Batter
In a shallow dish (pie plate or wide bowl), whisk together plant milk, aquafaba (or flax "egg"), cornstarch, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Preheat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with oil or vegan butter. Dip each slice of bread into the batter—allowing it to soak for about 10 seconds per side so it absorbs the liquid without becoming soggy.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Place soaked slices onto the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed—lower it slightly if the toast is browning too quickly.
Step 4: Keep Warm While You Finish
Transfer finished slices to a baking sheet and keep warm in a 200°F oven while you cook the remaining bread. This ensures all servings are warm and crisp.
Alternative Methods
Oven-Baked French Toast
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Preheat oven to 350°F.
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Arrange soaked slices on a lined baking sheet.
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Bake for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden on both sides.
Air Fryer Method
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Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
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Lightly oil the basket or use parchment.
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Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for crispy vegan French toast without the oil mess.
Flavor Variations
Banana-Cinnamon
Mash half a ripe banana into the batter along with cinnamon for natural sweetness and thicker texture.
Pumpkin Spice
Add 2 tablespoons pumpkin purée and pumpkin pie spice (instead of cinnamon) for a seasonal twist.
Savory Herb
Omit sweeteners and use plant milk, garlic powder, nutritional yeast, and fresh herbs for a savory-style French toast—great with avocado or tofu scramble.
Serving Suggestions
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Classic sweet: Serve with maple syrup, vegan butter, and berries.
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Fruit-stuffed: Layer each slice with fresh strawberry or banana slices before flipping.
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Yogurt parfait: Pair with a side of vegan yogurt and granola.
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All-in-one platter: French toast, vegan sausage link, and a green smoothie—complete plant-based brunch.
Tips for Perfect Vegan French Toast
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Use day-old or firm bread: Slightly stale slices absorb the batter better without falling apart.
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Press out excess liquid if overly soaked: Gently press the slices before cooking to prevent soggy centers.
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Adjust cooking temperature: Too hot and the toast browns too fast; too low and it becomes soggy. Medium heat is ideal.
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Batch cooking: Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven, and prep batter in advance for smooth timing.
Make-Ahead & Storage
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Batter: Can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. Stir before using.
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Pre-soaked bread: Soak just before cooking for best texture; avoid soaking too early.
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Leftovers: Refrigerate extra cooked slices in an airtight container. Reheat in a skillet or toaster to restore crispness.
Nutrition & Hosting Benefits
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Allergy-friendly: Free from eggs, dairy, and entirely plant-based. Easily gluten-free with specialty bread.
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Lower in saturated fat: Compared to traditional French toast made with butter and eggs.
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Fiber-rich: When using whole grain or sprouted bread.
Great for weekend brunches with family or hosting friends—simple yet impressive.
Share Your Plant-Based Lifestyle
If you're serving compassionate meals like this vegan French toast, you might enjoy sharing your lifestyle beyond your plate. The Dharma Store offers vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton—a cozy and stylish way to express your plant-based values wherever you go.
Final Thoughts
This simple vegan French toast recipe proves that plant-based baking can be both indulgent and effortless. Whether you’re enjoying it for everyday breakfast or presenting it as part of a brunch spread, it delivers all the fluffy, sweet comfort without eggs or dairy.
Indulge in golden, slightly crispy slices topped with fruit, syrup, or cinnamon sugar—and enjoy a compassionate, satisfying start to your day.