Discover the Authentic French Breakfast Experience!
Learn how to embrace the true essence of French culture with a traditional breakfast featuring the iconic croissant!
What Makes a French Breakfast Unique?
When I started traveling, I quickly realized that French breakfasts are quite different from those in other countries. Each country has its own morning rituals, but let me share what makes the French breakfast experience so special.
A traditional French breakfast is typically sweet rather than savory. While other cultures might favor eggs, bacon, or porridge, we French prefer delicate pastries and fresh bread.
What Do the French Eat for Breakfast?
Here’s a quick overview of a classic French breakfast:
Drinks:
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Coffee
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Tea (without milk, unlike in England)
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Hot chocolate (a favorite, especially for children)
Bread and Pastries:
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Fresh baguette with butter and homemade jam – A simple yet essential part of our morning routine. If you’ve ever tasted a French baguette fresh from the bakery, you’ll understand why it’s such a staple.
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Brioche – A soft, slightly sweet bread perfect for breakfast. Try my brioche recipe here!
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Croissants and Pain au Chocolat – These buttery pastries are often reserved for weekends or leisurely mornings at a cafe. Learn how to make perfect croissants and pain au chocolat in my online course.
I always keep fresh bread in my kitchen. For me, bread isn’t just for breakfast – I enjoy it throughout the day. However, there’s something truly comforting about starting the day with a warm slice of baguette, butter, and jam.
When Do the French Eat Croissants?
Contrary to popular belief, croissants and pain au chocolat aren’t an everyday breakfast treat in most French households. As delicious as they are, these pastries are rich and indulgent. Many people save them for weekends or special occasions.
Personally, I love having a croissant on Sunday mornings when I can relax and enjoy breakfast with my partner. It’s also a treat I indulge in when I meet friends for breakfast at a cafe.
If you visit a cafe in France for a typical breakfast, here’s what you’ll likely be offered:
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A hot drink (coffee, tea, or hot chocolate)
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Freshly squeezed juice
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Baguette with butter and jam
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A croissant or pain au chocolat
A Brief History of the French Breakfast
The sweet French breakfast we know today is a relatively recent tradition, dating back to the late 19th century. Before that, mornings often started with plain bread dipped in soup.
The introduction of coffee, chocolate, and sugar into French society (thanks to influences from other countries) began changing breakfast habits, initially among the aristocracy. These new foods gradually became popular with the working class during the Industrial Revolution when long, labor-intensive days called for more substantial morning meals.
Modern Breakfast Trends in France
Breakfast habits in France are evolving. While many young people are adopting international trends like porridge or savory dishes with eggs, traditional French breakfasts remain close to our hearts.
I enjoy experimenting with different breakfast options, but I always find my way back to a simple baguette or a croissant when I’m on holiday. There’s something deeply nostalgic and comforting about it – true to my French roots!
My grandparents, for example, stick to tradition. Every morning, my grandfather visits the bakery to bring home a baguette – sometimes with a small croissant for my grandmother. If that’s not love, I don’t know what is!
Explore More French Pastry Recipes
If you want to bring the flavors of France to your breakfast table, why not try baking at home?
Embrace the joy of a traditional French breakfast and start your day the Parisian way!
YOUR FREE EBOOK!
- 14 free pages full of advices to master the art of French tarts.
- Our « Foolproof » pie crust recipe
- 5 delicious tart recipes to use it
- A delicious salty version: The French Quiche
