To prevent French toast from deflating, you can follow these tips:
Use stale or slightly dry bread: Fresh bread contains more moisture, and when soaked in the egg mixture, it can lead to a soggy center and deflation. Stale or day-old bread is ideal for French toast as it can hold its shape better.
Don't oversoak the bread: When dipping the bread in the egg mixture, be sure not to soak it for too long. A quick dip on each side is sufficient. If the bread absorbs too much liquid, it can become heavy and deflate when cooking.
Use the right egg mixture ratio: A good mixture typically includes eggs, milk (or cream), and flavorings such as vanilla or cinnamon. The right ratio of eggs to milk will help the French toast maintain its structure and prevent it from becoming too heavy.
Don't flatten the bread: After soaking the bread in the egg mixture, gently shake off any excess liquid, but avoid pressing or flattening the bread slices. This can squeeze out air and make the toast dense.
Use medium heat: Cooking the French toast over medium heat allows it to cook evenly and thoroughly without becoming overly compressed. High heat can cause the outside to cook too quickly while the inside remains uncooked, leading to deflation as the air inside escapes.
Flip with care: When it's time to flip the French toast, do it gently. Use a spatula to turn the toast over without pressing down on it too hard. Being cautious during the flipping process helps maintain its light and airy texture.
Serve immediately: French toast is best enjoyed fresh off the griddle. Waiting too long before serving can cause it to lose some of its fluffiness.
By following these tips, you can make delicious French toast that stays fluffy and doesn't deflate. Enjoy your breakfast!