French toast is a delicious breakfast dish that can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week. But how long does French toast last in the refrigerator? Here is a comprehensive guide to storing and reheating French toast to keep it safe and tasty all week long.
How long does uncooked French toast batter last in the fridge?
The French toast batter itself will last 3-5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The key is keeping the egg-based batter chilled at 40°F or below. Here are some tips for storing French toast batter:
- Make the batter 1-2 days before planning to cook the French toast.
- Store the batter in an airtight glass or plastic container, fully sealed.
- Label the container with the date so you remember when it was made.
- Keep the batter towards the back of the fridge where it’s coldest.
As long as the batter is continuously refrigerated, it will maintain its fresh, thick, custard-like texture for 3-5 days without getting watery or separating. Give the batter a good stir before cooking if it’s been in the fridge for more than a day.
How long does cooked French toast last in the fridge?
Cooked French toast will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator stored in an airtight container. Follow these guidelines for storing leftover French toast:
- Let the French toast cool completely before refrigerating.
- Place slices in a sealed plastic or glass container, separating layers with parchment paper.
- Make sure the container is airtight to prevent the bread from drying out.
- Store the French toast towards the back of the fridge, not in the door.
Cooked French toast stays fresh longer than other types of cooked bread because the custard base helps retain moisture. Just be sure to consume refrigerated French toast within 3-4 days.
Signs French toast has gone bad
Check your refrigerated French toast for these signs that it may have spoiled:
- Dry, cracked, or hard bread
- Mold or fuzzy spots
- Sour or off smell
- Slimy texture
- Discoloration
If you notice any of those indications, it’s best to discard the French toast. Don’t risk eating spoiled food.
How to reheat refrigerated French toast
The best ways to reheat leftover French toast are:
- Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for 5-10 minutes until hot.
- Skillet: Melt a little butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Fry slices 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
- Toaster: Toast refrigerated slices in the toaster oven for 2-3 cycles until hot and slightly browned.
- Microwave: Microwave single slices for 15-30 seconds until warm. Check frequently to avoid sogginess.
Avoid reheating French toast in the microwave for too long, as this can make the bread rubbery. The oven or skillet methods work best for crisping the outside while warming the custard center.
How to freeze and thaw French toast
Freezing is a great way to stock up on French toast that will last for months in the freezer. Here is how to freeze French toast for long-term storage:
- Allow cooked French toast slices to cool completely, then place in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Freeze overnight until solid.
- Transfer frozen slices to an airtight freezer bag or container.
- Squeeze out excess air and seal the container.
- Label bag with date and return to freezer.
Properly frozen French toast will last 3-6 months in the freezer without losing quality. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then reheat using the oven, toaster, or skillet method until hot and crispy.
Conclusion
With proper refrigeration and reheating, French toast can be enjoyed all week long after cooking. Store French toast batter for 3-5 days before cooking. Cooked slices keep for 3-4 days in the fridge. Check for spoilage before eating, and reheat using the oven, skillet, or toaster for best results. For longer term freezing, cooked French toast keeps for 3-6 months in the freezer.