French toast is a beloved dish enjoyed by people all around the world. Though the basic preparation bread soaked in eggs and milk, then fried remains the same, its name and variations differ throughout Europe. Every country infuses its own unique flair, mirroring its regional culinary traditions. From Pain Perdu in France to Arme Ritter in Germany, French toast exemplifies the varied tastes of Europe. In this article, we will explore the different names for French toast across Europe, how each region prepares it, and the cultural significance of these variations. If you’re curious about how French toast evolves across Europe, this guide will help you understand its many forms. For more detail origins and story of french toast, check out this French toast guide.
French Toast in France: Pain Perdu
In France, French toast is known as Pain Perdu, which translates to “lost bread.” People gave it this name because they used stale bread that might otherwise be discarded. To revive the bread, they soaked it in a mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar, then fried it to create a delicious breakfast or dessert.
The Origins of Pain Perdu
For centuries, French families have made Pain Perdu to avoid wasting old bread. Traditionally, this dish is sweet, and it’s often served with powdered sugar, fresh fruits, or syrup. Many use brioche or baguette to achieve a soft interior with a crisp, golden-brown exterior.
How Cooks Prepare It
French cooks dip thick slices of stale bread into a rich custard of eggs and milk before frying them in butter. Some recipes also include sugar or cinnamon for added sweetness. Though people often serve Pain Perdu with sweet toppings, savory versions exist as well.
For an extra indulgent version of French toast, try this stuffed French toast recipe.
French Toast in Britain: Eggy Bread
In Britain, French toast goes by the name Eggy Bread. Unlike the sweeter versions seen in France and the U.S., the British often enjoy it as a savory dish. Instead of adding sugar and vanilla to the egg mixture, they keep it simple, serving the toast with hearty ingredients like cheese, tomatoes.
A Hearty and Simple Breakfast
Eggy Bread is a favored choice among Britons for a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch. While some may add sweet toppings like jam or honey, the savory approach dominates in British households. This simple yet satisfying dish uses basic ingredients, making it easy to prepare.
How It’s Made
Cooks soak bread in a basic mixture of egg and milk, then pan-fry it in butter or oil until it’s crispy. Many people serve Eggy Bread with baked beans, tomatoes, or cheese for a savory breakfast option.
For both savory and sweet variations, check out our fluffy French toast guide to adapt the recipe to your preferences.
French Toast in Spain: Torrijas
In Spain, Torrijas is the closest counterpart to French toast, and it holds a special place in Spanish cuisine, especially during the Easter season. This traditional dish has been around for centuries and is deeply rooted in Spain’s religious and cultural celebrations. Unlike other versions of French toast, Torrijas has a unique flavor profile due to the specific ingredients and cooking methods used. Spaniards soak slices of stale bread in milk, wine, or even syrup before frying them in olive oil, which imparts a distinct flavor and texture. Once fried, they finish the dish with a sprinkle of sugar, honey, or a dusting of cinnamon.
A Festive Spanish Tradition
Torrijas is traditionally prepared during Lent and Easter as a special treat, symbolizing indulgence during the religious season. The dish often uses stale bread, similar to Pain Perdu, but the soaking mixture in Spain is richer and more flavorful. Spaniards commonly add cinnamon, lemon zest, or orange peel to the milk or wine, giving the bread a zesty, aromatic taste. After frying in olive oil, the Torrijas achieve a crispy, caramelized exterior while maintaining a soft, custardy interior. The golden-brown crust contrasts beautifully with the sweet, syrupy or honey coating, making this dish a popular dessert or afternoon snack during Easter celebrations.
How It’s Different
Torrijas stands out from other European versions of French toast due to its thicker texture, heartier bread, and the use of olive oil for frying instead of butter. The bread absorbs the flavorful soaking mixture, resulting in a richer taste than most variations. Additionally, some recipes soak the bread in wine, which adds a unique depth and complexity to the flavor, making Torrijas different from the typical milk-soaked versions. The caramelized crunch on the outside, combined with the soft, sweet interior, makes Torrijas a beloved festive dish in Spain, enjoyed by families and friends during the Easter holiday.
French Toast in Germany: Arme Ritter
In Germany, French toast goes by the name Arme Ritter, which translates to “poor knights.” This dish dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was considered a frugal way to use up stale bread. During this time, food scarcity made it essential to avoid waste, and Arme Ritter became a creative solution for turning leftover bread into a satisfying meal. The name itself reflects the idea that even “poor knights” could afford such a simple, hearty dish.
A Sweet and Simple Dish
Arme Ritter, the German version of French toast, usually serves as a sweet treat. Unlike some other European versions, people commonly enjoy it as a dessert or a special breakfast. This dish features firmer bread than the soft, delicate types used in France, which provides a crispier texture when fried. Cooks frequently top it with sugar, cinnamon, or fruit compote, creating a comforting, slightly indulgent dish. Families especially love it, often serving it with applesauce, sour cherries, or a creamy vanilla sauce for added sweetness.
How It’s Made
To prepare Arme Ritter, cooks soak slices of stale bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar. After the bread absorbs the custard-like mixture, it’s fried in butter until it becomes golden and crispy on the outside, yet still soft on the inside. Common toppings include cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or a sweet berry compote, which add texture and contrast to the rich, custardy bread. The simple ingredients make this dish easy to prepare, while its warm, sweet flavors make it a favorite across generations.
Other European Variations of French Toast
In addition to France, Britain, Germany, and Spain, many other European countries have their own take on French toast.
Italy: Mozzarella in Carrozza
In Italy, a similar dish called Mozzarella in Carrozza shares the same preparation method as French toast. However, it is a savory version, featuring mozzarella cheese sandwiched between slices of bread, dipped in egg, and fried.
Portugal: Rabanadas
In Portugal, Rabanadas is a popular holiday dish, especially around Christmas. People soak the bread in milk, cinnamon, and sugar, then fry it and drizzle it with honey or syrup. This version brings festive joy to many Portuguese households during the holiday season.
Sweden: Fattiga Riddare
In Sweden, Fattiga Riddare translates to “poor knights,” similar to Germany’s Arme Ritter. This sweet version of French toast is often topped with jam, whipped cream, or fresh fruit, making it a delicious breakfast treat.
French Toast in the United States
In the U.S., people have turned French toast into a breakfast staple that leans toward the sweeter, more indulgent side. While European versions often emphasize simplicity, the American take on French toast stands out for its richness and decadence, featuring an abundance of toppings that transform this dish into a true treat. Whether you enjoy it at a classic diner or a fancy brunch spot, American French toast remains a crowd favorite, often elevating humble ingredients into a lavish breakfast experience.
A Decadent Breakfast
American French toast commonly uses thick slices of bread such as brioche, Texas toast, or challah, which are perfect for absorbing the custard mixture while maintaining a soft and fluffy interior. Cooks typically add sugar and vanilla to the egg mixture, resulting in a sweeter base. For an extra indulgent twist, many restaurants and home cooks take it a step further by stuffing the bread with fillings like cream cheese, fruit preserves, or fresh berries. This method creates a more dessert-like experience that’s rich in flavor and texture, making it a standout on breakfast menus.
How It’s Served
In the U.S., French toast is rarely served plain. Most people enjoy it topped with generous amounts of butter, maple syrup, and powdered sugar. However, many diners and restaurants go beyond the basics, offering elaborate toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, chocolate drizzle, or fresh fruit. Some even take it to the next level by adding ice cream or sprinkles for a truly over-the-top creation. Seasonal variations, such as pumpkin-spiced French toast in the fall or berry-topped versions in the summer, reflect the American love for customizing this dish with both classic and creative toppings.
Whether it’s served as a simple stack with syrup or as a decadent dish piled high with toppings, French toast in the United States is a celebration of indulgence and versatility. Its appeal lies in its ability to satisfy both comfort food cravings and adventurous taste buds, making it a beloved choice for breakfast lovers across the country.
FAQs About French Toast in Europe
1. What Are the Other Names for French Toast?
Across Europe, French toast goes by many different names. In France, people refer to the dish as Pain Perdu, while in Britain, they commonly call it Eggy Bread. In Germany, it’s known as Arme Ritter, and in Spain, they call it Torrijas.
2. What Is French Toast Called in Britain?
In Britain, people call French toast Eggy Bread. They commonly serve it as a savory dish, often pairing it with ingredients like cheese and tomatoes.
3. What Do They Call French Toast in Paris?
In Paris, as well as throughout France, people refer to French toast as Pain Perdu, which means “lost bread.”
4. What Do Americans Call French Toast?
In the United States, people simply call the dish French toast. They usually serve it as a sweet breakfast, topping it with syrup and powdered sugar.
Conclusion: The Many Faces of French Toast in Europe
Though the name and preparation of French toast vary across Europe, its popularity remains widespread, making it a cherished breakfast dish in many countries. In France, the sweet and simple Pain Perdu transforms leftover bread into a delicate treat, while Britain’s Eggy Bread offers a savory twist, perfect for those who prefer heartier flavors. Each country infuses French toast with its unique ingredients and culinary traditions, showcasing its adaptability.
For those who enjoy a sweeter option, Germany’s Arme Ritter provides a crisp, sugar-dusted delight, often paired with fruit compote. Meanwhile, Spain’s Torrijas brings a festive touch, especially during Easter, with its rich, caramelized flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent. The different regional versions highlight how versatile this dish can be, making it easy to customize according to taste preferences.
No matter which version you try, French toast invites creativity, offering endless possibilities for toppings, fillings, and flavors. Whether you’re a fan of the classic sweet variety or curious about trying a savory spin, there’s always something new to explore. For even more creative ways to enjoy this beloved dish, check out our guide to the perfect French toast and discover exciting variations.