Delicious Alternatives to French Toast and Pancakes

French toast and pancakes are beloved breakfast favorites, but if you're looking for something different, or just in the mood to switch things up, there are many delicious and varied options to explore. From savory to sweet, here are some tasty alternatives that will satisfy your morning cravings.

Bagels and Cream Cheese Eggs

Bagels are a versatile breakfast staple that can be enjoyed on their own or with a variety of toppings and spreads. Cream cheese eggs are a particularly comforting option:

Ingredients:

1-2 soft-boiled eggs, sliced 4-6 pieces of bagel, toasted 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup potatoes, fried (optional) Butter or oil for frying the potatoes

Instructions:

Fry the potatoes until golden and crispy, then set aside to drain on paper towels. Toast the bagles and top each piece with a generous dollop of cream cheese. Place sliced eggs on top. Add the fried potatoes for extra crunch, if desired.

Bagels and cream cheese eggs offer a hearty and satisfying breakfast that warms the soul on a cold morning.

Sweet and Savory Toast Variations

Toast paired with different toppings or spreads is another versatile option that can be adjusted to your liking. Here are a few sweet and savory variations to try:

Peanut or Nut Butter Toast

This option is a delightful balance of sweet and savory. Whether you're in the mood for smooth peanut butter or a crunchy nut butter, it pairs wonderfully with butter, sliced fruits, or even honey.

Avocado Toast

Avocado toast is a trendy and healthy choice that's both easy to make and customizable. Here's a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

2 slices of hearty bread 1 ripe avocado, mashed 1-2 tbsp of lemon juice Salt and pepper to taste Optional: sliced tomatoes, red onion, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added flavor

Instructions:

Toast the bread to your desired level of crispiness. Mash the avocado in a bowl until smooth and mix in the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Spread the avocado mixture onto the toasted bread. Add optional toppings if desired.

Breakfast Tortillas

Tortillas are a fantastic vehicle for breakfast ingredients and can be used in a variety of ways. Here is a savory breakfast tortilla recipe:

Ingredients:

1-2 folded breakfast tortillas (use corn or flour, depending on your preference) Crumbled eggs, cooked to your liking Black beans, sautéed until heated through (optional) Chopped tomatoes and onions (optional) Celebrity lettuce and other fresh herbs, such as cilantro Avocado, diced (optional)

Instructions:

Fold the tortilla and heat in a pan with a little oil until it's crispy and bubbly. Remove from heat, place the scrambled eggs onto the folded tortilla, and top with black beans, tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and avocado if desired. Fold again and serve immediately.

Breakfast tortillas are perfect for those who prefer a lighter but still satisfying meal.

Lunch or Dinner Style Breakfast: Pizza

If you're feeling particularly adventurous, trying to have "breakfast for dinner" can be a delightful change. Pizza is an easy and flexible option that can cater to your breakfast cravings:

Ingredients:

Cold or leftover pizza, sliced Bread or English muffins, for serving (optional) Additional toppings or condiments, such as mayonnaise, shredded cheese, sliced meats, and avocado slices (optional)

Instructions:

Slice the pizza into individual portions. Warm the slices in the oven or on a grill if you're using fresh pizza. Optional: Serve with a side of toasted bread or English muffins and add additional toppings.

Warm pizza for breakfast, topped with your favorite toppings, can be a uniquely satisfying way to start the day.

Flexible and Creative Breakfast Options

The best part about these breakfast alternatives is their flexibility. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your tastes and dietary needs. For example, you could replace the potatoes in the cream cheese bagels with grilled vegetables, or use gluten-free bread instead of regular toast. Additionally, if you're looking for something more substantial, you might consider adding a layer of scrambled eggs or a side of yogurt and fruit.

As my uncle who worked the night shift used to have steak and fried potatoes for breakfast frequently, you are similarly free to experiment. Different cultures have different breakfast traditions, so it's a great time to try some new dishes and explore the rich variety of global cuisine.

So, whether you're in the mood for something sweet, savory, or a hybrid of both, there are countless delicious alternatives to French toast and pancakes. The key is to keep an open mind and embrace the flexibility of breakfast.