French toast is always a popular breakfast item for kids and adults alike. If you're looking for something beyond syrup on your French toast, check out these favorites:

-        Inspired by the cuisine of New Orleans, try Bananas Foster French toast. This sweet banana preparation caramelizes the fruit in brown sugar with maple syrup with pecans.

-        For a healthier take on the dish, skip the powdered sugar and syrup and cover the top with finely-chopped berries – strawberries and blueberries work best. The natural sweetness will soak into the toast, making delicious flavors.

-        The bread you make French toast with can make a real difference in the final dish. While most people use white bread or baguettes, try making the dish with challah, the traditional twist bread. Its fluffy consistency absorbs the egg and cream mixture wonderfully. Or try using a French croissant for a buttery alternative.

-        Mixing a little pumpkin pie filling and cinnamon in with the batter can produce a delicious pumpkin French toast with comforting autumn flavors. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, syrup, and candied walnuts for a yummy fall breakfast.

-        For something different, remember that French toast doesn’t have to be sweet! A savory take on the dish can be made by using herbes de Provence in the batter mixture and topping the finished product with a zingy tomato jam. For a hearty meal, serve with bacon or turkey sausage.