When thinking about breakfast, the French know how to start the day with style, simplicity, and flavor. While France is renowned for its pastries, there’s much more to a typical French breakfast than just croissants. From buttery delights to simple yet elegant bread spreads, the French breakfast offers a sophisticated yet uncomplicated culinary experience that everyone should try at least once. Here’s a rundown of 20 typical French breakfast foods you have to try on your next visit to France—or even recreate at home.
1. Croissant
The croissant, with its flaky, buttery layers, is arguably the star of French breakfast foods. Best enjoyed fresh from the bakery, this crescent-shaped pastry has become a symbol of French breakfast culture worldwide. Whether you savor it plain or filled with almond cream, a good croissant will melt in your mouth and leave you wanting more.
2. Pain au Chocolat
Pain au chocolat is another beloved French pastry. Imagine a croissant, but with rich, dark chocolate nestled in the center. The combination of the light, buttery pastry and the decadent chocolate filling makes this a perfect morning indulgence with a cup of coffee.
3. Baguette with Butter and Jam
A simple yet iconic French breakfast is a fresh baguette slathered with butter and jam. The crisp, crunchy exterior of the baguette paired with soft butter and sweet, fruity jam (such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot) creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
4. Café au Lait
No French breakfast is complete without a warm beverage, and café au lait is a favorite. This classic coffee drink is made with equal parts steamed milk and brewed coffee, offering a smooth, rich taste that complements any breakfast pastry.
5. Tartine
Tartine is a French word for an open-faced sandwich, but for breakfast, it typically refers to a slice of baguette topped with butter and jam or sometimes honey. It’s a simple yet satisfying way to start the day, often paired with a hot drink like coffee or tea.
6. Pain Perdu
Pain perdu, or “lost bread,” is the French version of French toast. Traditionally made with stale bread, it’s soaked in a mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar, then fried to golden perfection. Often served with powdered sugar, fruit, or syrup, it’s a hearty and delicious breakfast option.
7. Brioche
Brioche is a sweet, fluffy bread enriched with eggs and butter, making it soft and rich. This buttery bread is often enjoyed plain, with a bit of jam, or as part of a more elaborate dish like brioche toast or French toast.
8. Madeleines
These small, shell-shaped sponge cakes are a French breakfast favorite, often enjoyed with tea or coffee. Madeleines have a light, airy texture and a delicate flavor, with a hint of lemon or vanilla, making them a perfect breakfast treat.
9. Pain aux Raisins
Pain aux raisins is a delightful spiral pastry filled with raisins and custard, offering a satisfying combination of flavors. The sweetness of the raisins and the creaminess of the custard make this a beloved morning pastry in France.
10. Crêpes
Crêpes, thin pancakes made from a simple batter, are a staple in French breakfast cuisine. Whether enjoyed with sugar and lemon, Nutella, or fruit, crêpes offer a versatile and delicious breakfast option.
11. Chausson aux Pommes
Chausson aux pommes, or apple turnover, is a puff pastry filled with sweet apple compote. It’s a comforting breakfast choice, especially in the colder months, with its warm, fruity filling and crispy pastry.
12. Omelette
While omelettes are typically associated with lunch or dinner, they also make a hearty French breakfast. Filled with cheese, herbs, or vegetables, a French omelette is delicate and soft, often served with a side of bread.
13. Café Crème
Café crème is similar to café au lait but creamier, thanks to the added cream instead of milk. This rich coffee drink is a common breakfast choice, especially for those who prefer a milder coffee experience.
14. Fromage Blanc
Fromage blanc, a fresh and tangy cheese similar to yogurt, is often enjoyed at breakfast with a bit of honey, fruit, or granola. Its creamy texture and light flavor make it a refreshing morning option.
15. Galette des Rois
While typically eaten to celebrate Epiphany, the galette des rois can also make a special breakfast treat during the holiday season. This puff pastry cake filled with frangipane (almond cream) is flaky, sweet, and delicious.
16. Jambon-Beurre Sandwich
The jambon-beurre is a classic French sandwich made with ham and butter on a fresh baguette. Though it may seem simple, the quality of the ingredients makes all the difference, and it’s a quick yet satisfying breakfast or snack.
17. Petits Pains
Petits pains, or small bread rolls, are commonly served at breakfast, often with butter, jam, or honey. These soft rolls can also be used for mini sandwiches or eaten plain alongside coffee.
18. Fruit Salad
A refreshing bowl of fruit salad, made with seasonal fruits like berries, apples, and grapes, is often part of a lighter French breakfast. Served with a dollop of yogurt or on its own, it’s a healthy start to the day.
19. Sablé Biscuits
Sablé biscuits are shortbread-like cookies with a rich, buttery flavor. They’re perfect for a light breakfast alongside a hot drink, and their crumbly texture makes them an indulgent treat.
20. Hot Chocolate (Chocolat Chaud)
Finally, for those who prefer something sweeter in the morning, chocolat chaud is a must-try. French hot chocolate is thick, rich, and often made with dark chocolate, creating a luxurious drink that pairs perfectly with croissants or brioche.
In conclusion, French breakfasts offer an array of delightful options, from buttery pastries to light and refreshing dishes. Whether you’re indulging in a warm croissant with a café au lait or savoring a hearty pain perdu, these typical French breakfast foods are sure to elevate your morning routine. So next time you’re in France—or want to bring a bit of France to your kitchen—make sure to try some of these breakfast classics. Bon appétit!