Description
A rich, comforting French toast recipe that delivers a crispy exterior and a soft, custardy interior using day-old brioche or challah bread. It comes together in under 20 minutes and is perfect for brunch or special weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4–6 slices day-old brioche or challah bread (1-inch thick)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
Instructions
- In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until completely smooth and uniform.
- Place a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed non-stick pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter, letting it melt and foam slightly.
- Dip a slice of day-old bread into the custard mixture, soaking for about 10 seconds per side until absorbed but not falling apart.
- Place the soaked bread into the hot pan. Do not move it for the first 2 minutes to allow a golden crust to form.
- Flip the toast and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the second side is golden brown and the inside is set.
- Remove cooked toast to a plate lined with paper towels. Wipe the pan and add more butter as needed, repeating the process with remaining slices.
- Serve immediately with maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar.
Notes
Day-old bread is preferred as it absorbs custard without becoming mushy. If using fresh bread, toast it lightly in the oven first. Maintain medium heat to prevent burning the outside before the inside sets. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 14
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 15
Keywords: French toast, fluffy French toast, breakfast recipe, brunch ideas, brioche toast, easy breakfast, comfort food