When you think of French toast, you probably imagine thick slices of bread soaked in eggs and milk, cooked to golden perfection, and topped with maple syrup or fruit. While it’s a favorite on brunch menus and breakfast tables around the world, French toast isn’t just a modern indulgence—or even uniquely French. In fact, this beloved dish has roots that go back thousands of years, and its origin story might surprise you. Join us this month as one of your favorite Winchester restaurants takes a trip back in time to uncover its history!
Not Really French: Where Did It Come From?
Despite the name, French toast didn’t originate in France. In fact, recipes for bread soaked in eggs and milk can be traced all the way back to ancient Rome. A cookbook from the 1st century CE, Apicius, includes a recipe for “aliter dulcia,” which involved soaking bread in milk and eggs, then frying it in oil. The idea was simple: use stale bread, soften it, and turn it into something flavorful and satisfying.
Throughout medieval Europe, versions of this dish appeared in various cultures. It was commonly made by soaking old bread in a mixture of milk and eggs, frying it, and sweetening it with honey or sugar. In England, it was known as poor knights’ pudding, while in France, the term pain perdu, meaning “lost bread,” became popular, referring to bread that would otherwise be wasted.
So Why Is It Called “French” Toast?
The term “French toast” first appeared in England in the 17th century, but it became widely used in America during the 18th century. One theory suggests that early American settlers gave the dish its name to make it sound more sophisticated and appealing. Another possibility is that the name comes from Joseph French, a New York innkeeper who supposedly created the dish in 1724 but forgot the apostrophe in “French’s Toast.”
Regardless of the name’s origin, the dish became a staple in American breakfasts. Over time, it evolved to include a range of ingredients and toppings, from cinnamon and vanilla in the custard mixture to fruit, nuts, and syrups served on top.
A Global Breakfast Favorite
What’s known as French toast in the U.S. has countless international cousins:
- In France, pain perdu is often made with brioche or baguette and served as a dessert.
- In Germany, it’s called Arme Ritter (poor knights).
- In Spain, torrijas are often soaked in wine and served during Lent.
- In Hong Kong, local diners serve it deep-fried and filled with peanut butter or kaya jam.
Swanton Street Diner | Winchester Restaurants
Whether it’s served sweet or savory, topped with syrup or fruit, French toast continues to connect generations of cooks and cultures, one golden slice at a time. Craving a slice of history? Try your own version of French toast at home or explore unique takes at one of your favorite Winchester restaurants– Swanton Street Diner!