Coastal French Toast

Bright, cozy, and not too sweet.

This was my first time ever making French toast, and honestly? I wanted the opposite of the cloyingly sweet diner version. I wanted something warm and rich, but still bright. Something that tasted like a slow coastal morning — lemon zest, vanilla, fresh berries, good bread, and just enough sweetness to round everything out.

The surprise star was Coastal Heat.
Not enough to make it spicy, but just enough warmth to deepen the custard and wake everything up.

And yes — I topped it with a fried egg because apparently I like breakfast to live somewhere between sweet, savory, brunch, and “I made this with whatever felt right.” Which honestly might be the best kind of cooking.


Coastal French Toast Recipe

For the Custard

  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup homemade unsweetened almond milk
  • 1/4 cup toasted marshmallow Nutpods
  • 1–2 tbsp amber coconut nectar
  • 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1/2 tsp Coastal Heat salt
  • Small pinch cinnamon

For the French Toast

  • 4 thick slices brioche or challah
  • Butter or coconut oil for the pan

Toppings

  • Fresh strawberries
  • Blueberries
  • Extra lemon zest
  • Optional fried egg
  • Light drizzle of amber coconut nectar

Instructions

1. Make the custard

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, Nutpods, coconut nectar, vanilla bean paste, lemon zest, Coastal Heat, and cinnamon until smooth.

2. Soak the bread

Dip each slice into the custard for about 15–20 seconds per side. You want the bread saturated but not falling apart.

3. Cook the French toast

Heat a well-seasoned skillet over medium heat with a little butter or coconut oil.

Cook each slice for about:

  • 3–4 minutes on the first side
  • 2–3 minutes on the second side

You’re looking for deep golden brown edges and a custardy center.

4. Finish

Top with berries, a little extra lemon zest, and — if you’re feeling it — a crispy fried egg with a tiny pinch of Coastal Heat over the top.

The sweet/savory balance is ridiculously good.


Notes

  • Day-old bread works best.
  • The coconut nectar keeps the sweetness soft and caramel-like instead of sugary.
  • Coastal Heat adds warmth without making the dish overtly spicy.
  • This feels far more “slow breakfast at home” than dessert pretending to be breakfast.