Protein French Toast Recipe

I am always looking for ways to make family breakfast feel indulgent without leaving us in a sugar crash before lunch. This protein french toast recipe delivers exactly that. It transforms a weekend treat into a satisfying, high-protein meal by infusing the batter with a scoop of vanilla protein powder, resulting in golden-brown slices with crisp edges and a creamy center. Forget standard maple syrup; we are topping this with a vibrant, creamy cardamom-orange drizzle that adds a gourmet twist and a pop of freshness. This is a surprisingly simple, **family-friendly recipe** that both kids and adults love, making it perfect for busy mornings when you want something substantial.

Ingredients

• 4 thick slices (approx. 3 cm / 1.2 inches each) day-old brioche or challah bread: A sturdy, slightly dry bread base is essential for absorbing the protein-rich batter without falling apart. If using fresh bread, let it sit out for an hour to dry slightly before preparing. For a different texture, you can also use thick-cut sourdough or Texas toast.
• 2 large eggs and 120 ml (1/2 cup) dairy or unsweetened plant-based milk: The eggs bind the batter together and help create a golden-brown crust. Use whole milk for a richer taste or unsweetened oat milk for a creamy, non-dairy option.
• 30 g (1 scoop) vanilla-flavored protein powder: This is the key protein element for this protein french toast recipe; use high-quality vanilla whey or plant-based protein for the best flavor and texture. Avoid unflavored protein, as the vanilla essence helps balance the cardamom and orange. Choose a brand that dissolves well to avoid a lumpy batter.
• Flavorings for the batter: 5 ml (1 tsp) alcohol-free vanilla extract, 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) ground cardamom (divided), 5 ml (1 tsp) finely grated orange zest (divided), 15 g (1 tbsp) granulated sugar: The cardamom and orange zest create a unique, aromatic profile that sets this recipe apart. Ensure the orange zest is freshly grated; do not use dried zest here. The sugar helps to create a beautiful caramelized crust on the outside of the toast.
• For cooking: 15-30 g (1-2 tablespoons) clarified butter or vegetable oil: Clarified butter provides a rich, nutty flavor and has a higher smoke point than regular butter, preventing burning. You can use a neutral vegetable oil like avocado or canola oil as a non-dairy alternative.
• For the Creamy Drizzle: 120 g (1/2 cup) plain Greek yogurt, 30 g (2 tablespoons) powdered sugar, 15 ml (1 tablespoon) fresh orange juice: Greek yogurt serves as a high-protein, tangy base for a topping that is far more satisfying than maple syrup. Powdered sugar ensures a smooth consistency without a grainy texture, essential for a pourable drizzle. Fresh orange juice brightens the flavor and provides the perfect drizzle consistency.

Instructions

This protein french toast recipe comes together quickly once you have the batter ready. Follow these steps to get that perfect golden crust.

1. Prepare the Batter: In a wide, shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, protein powder, vanilla extract, 0.6 ml (1/8 teaspoon) ground cardamom, 2.5 ml (1/2 teaspoon) finely grated orange zest, and granulated sugar until smooth. Whisk thoroughly to break down any lumps from the protein powder; a wire whisk works best to fully incorporate everything. Use a dish wide enough to accommodate the bread slices without folding or breaking them.

2. Heat the Skillet: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 7-15 g (1/2-1 tablespoon) clarified butter or vegetable oil, ensuring it coats the cooking surface. Keep the heat moderate; high heat will burn the outside before the center cooks through, resulting in a soggy, undercooked middle. The skillet is ready when a drop of water sizzles instantly on the surface.

3. Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the prepared batter, allowing it to soak for about 20-30 seconds per side. For thick slices of brioche, this duration is necessary for full absorption; adjust time for thinner or drier bread. Let any excess batter drip off before placing the slice on the skillet.

4. Cook the French Toast: Carefully place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown, crisp at the edges, and cooked through to the center. Repeat with remaining bread slices, adding more butter or oil as needed between batches to maintain a consistent cooking surface. When I make this high-protein breakfast for my family, I cook two slices at a time on a 10-inch non-stick skillet to get a perfectly even cook. If the pan smokes when you add the butter, turn down the heat and wait; high heat burns the protein powder before the inside cooks through. This specific **protein french toast recipe** method prevents a soggy middle.

5. Make the Drizzle: While the french toast cooks, prepare the creamy cardamom-orange drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and the remaining 0.6 ml (1/8 teaspoon) ground cardamom until smooth and well combined. The consistency should be thick but pourable; adjust with a little more orange juice if needed to reach desired consistency. Set aside until serving time.

6. Serve and Garnish: Transfer the **protein french toast** slices to a warm plate. Stack 2 slices per serving and generously drizzle the creamy cardamom-orange mixture over the stack. Finish with a light sprinkling of the remaining 2.5 ml (1/2 teaspoon) finely grated orange zest over the top for vibrant color and aroma. Serve immediately for best results.

Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Tips

This recipe works beautifully for busy families, as most of the prep can be done on the weekend for quick, healthy breakfasts during the week. Freezing this protein french toast recipe is simple and makes for easy grab-and-go meals.

• Freezing French Toast: Cook all slices as directed and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Layer the slices between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 1 month.
• Reheating Instructions: For the best texture, avoid reheating in the microwave. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side to restore the crispy edges, or place on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–10 minutes until warmed through.
• Drizzle Storage: Prepare the creamy drizzle ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Whisk thoroughly to restore the consistency before serving, as the yogurt and juice may separate slightly during storage.

Flavor Variations and Topping Ideas

While the cardamom-orange drizzle adds a lovely gourmet touch, this recipe is flexible. Use these ideas to create different flavor profiles that suit your family’s preferences, keeping this protein french toast in your regular rotation.

• Chocolate Protein Powder Twist: Swap the vanilla protein powder for chocolate protein powder and add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the batter. Top with raspberries and chocolate chips instead of the drizzle for a rich, high-protein breakfast.
• Spice Swaps: If cardamom isn’t a family favorite, swap it for ground cinnamon and nutmeg, or use pumpkin pie spice during the fall months. The orange zest complements cinnamon beautifully.
• Additional Toppings: For extra sweetness, consider adding fresh berries, sliced bananas, toasted coconut flakes, or a handful of chopped walnuts. You can also serve with a light dusting of powdered sugar in addition to the drizzle.

FAQs about Protein French Toast

Q: Why does my protein powder form clumps in the batter?

A: Protein powder (especially whey) can clump when added directly to liquid. To fix this, mix the protein powder with the granulated sugar first before adding the eggs and milk. I also find it helpful to whisk the protein powder into a small amount of milk first to create a paste before adding the remaining ingredients; a silicone whisk usually prevents clumps from forming in the corners of my bowl.

Q: How do I prevent a soggy center and burned outside?

A: The main cause is often high heat. Ensure your heat is truly moderate; if it browns too quickly, turn the heat down and cook for longer. Also, ensure you are using thick, day-old bread, as fresh or thin bread absorbs too much batter and becomes mushy before cooking through.

Q: Can I use different kinds of protein powder?

A: Yes, but results vary. Whey protein (like whey isolate) blends best and creates a slightly lighter texture for this protein french toast recipe. Casein protein creates a much thicker batter, which may require adding extra milk to maintain a pourable consistency.

Q: What other toppings go well with this recipe?

A: Sliced almonds, toasted coconut flakes, fresh raspberries or blueberries, or a light dusting of cinnamon. A small amount of maple syrup also works well, but the Greek yogurt drizzle provides more protein and flavor, making it a healthy breakfast option.

Q: Is this protein french toast recipe good for kids?

A: Yes, the cardamom flavor is subtle in the drizzle. The high protein content makes it a filling, satisfying option for busy mornings. For picky eaters, you can serve plain french toast and serve the drizzle on the side.

Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Simply use a gluten-free brioche or challah bread. Make sure the bread is sturdy and thick-cut to hold up to the batter. The cooking time may need to be slightly adjusted depending on the specific bread texture.

Conclusion

This easy protein french toast recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t mean boring eating. The creamy cardamom-orange drizzle elevates a simple breakfast into something truly special and satisfying. Save this recipe for later on Pinterest so you can easily find it when you need a hearty breakfast idea.

protein french toast recipe

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• Author: Grace Miller
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: general

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Description

This high-protein french toast recipe uses vanilla protein powder in the batter for a satisfying breakfast that keeps you full longer, complete with a gourmet cardamom-orange drizzle topping.

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Ingredients

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• 4 thick slices day-old brioche or challah bread
• 2 large eggs
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) dairy or plant-based milk
• 30 g (1 scoop) vanilla protein powder
• 5 ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
• 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp) ground cardamom, divided
• 5 ml (1 tsp) finely grated orange zest, divided
• 15 g (1 tbsp) granulated sugar
• 15–30 g (1–2 tbsp) clarified butter or vegetable oil
• For the Drizzle: 120 g (1/2 cup) plain Greek yogurt
• For the Drizzle: 30 g (2 tbsp) powdered sugar
• For the Drizzle: 15 ml (1 tbsp) fresh orange juice

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Batter: Whisk together eggs, milk, protein powder, vanilla extract, half the ground cardamom (1/8 tsp), half the orange zest (1/2 tsp), and granulated sugar in a wide, shallow dish until smooth.
2. Heat Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding 1/2 to 1 tablespoon of butter or oil to coat the surface.
3. Soak Bread Slices: Dip each slice of bread into the prepared batter, allowing it to soak for 20-30 seconds per side. Let excess batter drip off before cooking.
4. Cook French Toast: Place soaked slices onto the hot skillet (in batches if necessary). Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp at the edges. Add more fat as needed between batches.
5. Make Cardamom Drizzle: While the toast cooks, whisk together the Greek yogurt, powdered sugar, orange juice, and remaining ground cardamom until smooth and thick.
6. Serve and Garnish: Stack 2 slices of protein french toast per serving. Drizzle generously with the creamy cardamom-orange mixture and garnish with remaining orange zest. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use day-old bread for the best results to prevent the toast from becoming soggy. Cook at a moderate temperature to ensure the inside cooks through before the outside burns. Reheat leftovers in a skillet or oven for the best texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: breakfast
• Method: pan-frying
• Cuisine: american

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 slices with drizzle
• Calories: 700 kcal
• Sugar: 25 g
• Sodium: 300 mg
• Fat: 31 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 65 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 200 mg