How to Make McCormick French Toast Without Milk (Dairy-Free Option)

Why Choose McCormick French Toast Without Milk?

Whether you’re lactose intolerant, following a plant-based diet, or simply out of milk, there’s no reason to skip out on classic French toast. This dairy-free twist retains the comforting flavor of traditional French toast, thanks to McCormick’s signature spice blends. By using non-dairy milk substitutes and a few kitchen tricks, you can enjoy a warm, golden-brown breakfast without compromising on taste or texture. Plus, making McCormick French Toast without milk is just as easy and even more inclusive.

Opting for a dairy-free recipe doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. In fact, many home cooks discover that almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk add exciting new flavor dimensions. With a little help from McCormick’s tried-and-true spices and some dairy-free know-how, this recipe becomes a staple for every kitchen—especially when dietary restrictions are involved.

Looking for the original version of this dairy-free twist? Check out our McCormick French Toast Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Breakfast for the full classic experience.

Why Go Dairy-Free? (Health, Lifestyle, and Allergies)

Choosing to go dairy-free can stem from various motivations, including health, ethical beliefs, or food sensitivities. For many, lactose intolerance leads the charge. It’s estimated that 65% of the global population experiences some form of lactose malabsorption. Cutting out dairy products can significantly reduce bloating, digestive discomfort, and skin flare-ups for those sensitive to dairy.

Additionally, some individuals adopt a dairy-free lifestyle to support a plant-based diet. According to Health.com, eliminating dairy may also reduce inflammation and lower the risk of certain chronic diseases. From a lifestyle perspective, dairy-free diets are often more environmentally sustainable, as plant-based milks require less water and land to produce.

Parents of children with allergies or those following a vegan diet will also benefit from dairy-free alternatives. It’s comforting to know that a beloved breakfast dish like French toast can adapt so easily to modern nutritional needs while staying delicious.

Want something fun for the little ones? These Kid-Friendly McCormick French Toast Sticks are easy to dip, freeze, and reheat—perfect for school mornings.

Best Non-Dairy Milk Substitutes for French Toast

Choosing the right non-dairy milk can make or break your dairy-free French toast. The substitute needs to replicate the richness of milk while enhancing the texture and flavor. Here are the best plant-based alternatives and how they perform:

• Almond Milk: Mild in flavor and light in texture. Ideal for those who want a less sweet finish. It’s low in calories but may need added spices or vanilla for depth.
• Oat Milk: Creamy and slightly sweet, oat milk closely resembles the texture of dairy. It soaks into bread beautifully, making it a top choice for French toast.
• Coconut Milk (Canned or Carton): Offers a rich, tropical note. Canned coconut milk adds extra fat, perfect for a decadent brunch, while carton versions are lighter and more subtle.
• Soy Milk: High in protein and rich in body, soy milk browns well and binds ingredients efficiently. Choose an unsweetened version to control flavor.
• Rice Milk: Thinner than other options, but works if nothing else is available. You may need to add a thickener like flax meal or cornstarch to balance the soak.

According to The Chopping Block, oat and soy milk perform the best for cooking applications due to their structure and mouthfeel. Always opt for unsweetened, unflavored varieties to control the recipe’s flavor balance.

McCormick Spice Blend for Dairy-Free Recipes

When it comes to seasoning, McCormick spices deliver reliability and bold taste. Their blends are naturally dairy-free, making them the perfect match for our adjusted French toast recipe. The right mix of spices can mask any missing richness from traditional milk and elevate your dish.

Here’s how to build your dairy-free French toast flavor profile with McCormick:

• Ground Cinnamon: A must-have. Warm and nostalgic, it creates that comforting base note.
• Nutmeg: Use sparingly for depth. McCormick’s nutmeg has a sweet-spicy profile that pairs well with plant-based milks.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds sweetness and aroma. Make sure to choose an alcohol-based extract, which is vegan and dairy-free.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: An all-in-one seasonal alternative when you’re short on time or want a fall-inspired twist.

For a little something extra, a pinch of McCormick smoked paprika adds an unexpected savory edge, especially when paired with coconut milk.

Texture & Flavor Differences to Expect

Ditching dairy will slightly shift both flavor and texture, but not in a bad way. Non-dairy milks can impart a unique taste, so choose a milk that complements your desired outcome. Oat milk, for instance, makes the dish slightly sweeter and creamier, while almond milk keeps it light and nutty.

The texture will depend on your bread type and soak time. Thicker, denser bread holds up better with thinner milks. If your toast comes out soggy, reduce the soak time or increase the skillet heat slightly to firm it up.

Dairy-free versions may brown more quickly due to the natural sugars in plant-based milks, so keep an eye on them while cooking.

Suggested Toppings and Sides

French toast isn’t complete without toppings, and the dairy-free possibilities are endless:

• Fresh fruit: Sliced strawberries, blueberries, or bananas
• Natural sweeteners: Maple syrup, agave, or date syrup
• Crunch elements: Toasted nuts, seeds, or granola
• Dairy-free extras: Coconut whipped cream, almond butter, or fruit preserves
• Savory side pairings: Plant-based sausage, vegan bacon, or scrambled tofu

Creating a brunch board with these sides allows guests or kids to customize their plates without any dairy worries.

Is It Vegan? Add/Subtract Ingredients

To make your McCormick French toast without milk fully vegan, you’ll need to replace the eggs. Here are the top alternatives:

• Flax Eggs: Mix 1 tbsp flaxseed meal with 2.5 tbsp water. Let sit 5 minutes.
• Chia Eggs: Similar to flax but with a slightly crunchier texture.
• Banana or Applesauce: Adds moisture and sweetness; use 1/4 cup per egg.
• Commercial Egg Replacers: Just Egg or Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer are reliable for consistent texture.

Make sure your bread is also vegan—some brands contain milk, honey, or eggs. Look for certified vegan loaves or bake your own. With the right swaps, your French toast will be both dairy-free and 100% plant-based.

Common Questions About McCormick French Toast Without Milk

Can I use water instead of milk?
You can, but the flavor will be lacking. Water doesn’t bind or enrich the bread, so use a touch of vanilla and maple syrup to compensate.

What’s the best bread for dairy-free French toast?
Thick-cut, slightly stale bread like challah, sourdough, or country white bread works best. Avoid soft sandwich bread—it falls apart easily.

Will it crisp up without butter?
Yes! Use coconut oil or vegan margarine in a non-stick skillet. The key is preheating the pan and not overcrowding it.

Can I freeze and reheat?
Absolutely. Lay cooked slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the toaster oven or skillet for best texture.

Conclusion: Enjoy McCormick French Toast—No Milk Required

Going dairy-free doesn’t mean giving up French toast. With the right ingredients, you can enjoy this breakfast favorite in a way that supports your dietary needs, health goals, or family preferences. McCormick’s trusted spices ensure your recipe turns out flavorful and festive, while plant-based milks and egg alternatives offer flexibility and inclusivity.

Whether you’re hosting a brunch, prepping weekday breakfast, or just indulging on a cozy weekend, McCormick French toast without milk is an easy, delicious option worth adding to your kitchen rotation.

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