Description
This Best French Toast Ever recipe features thick slices of brioche or challah bread soaked in a rich custard blend of eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, and warm spices, then cooked to golden perfection in a buttery skillet. Served hot with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries, it’s a classic, indulgent breakfast that’s both simple and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Bread and Cooking
- 8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
To Serve
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Fresh berries, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a rich custard for soaking the bread.
- Soak the Bread: Dip each thick slice of brioche or challah bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. Make sure the bread absorbs enough custard but avoid making it overly soggy to prevent falling apart during cooking.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Let the butter melt completely and start to sizzle, which ensures a non-stick surface and adds flavorful browning to the French toast.
- Cook the French Toast: Add 2 to 3 soaked bread slices to the hot skillet. Cook each slice for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each side achieves a beautiful golden brown color and a crispy exterior while remaining soft and custardy inside. Add the remaining butter as needed for subsequent batches.
- Serve: Serve the French toast immediately while hot, topped generously with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh berries to add brightness and balance to the rich custard toast.
Notes
- Use thick slices of brioche or challah bread for the best texture and flavor. Day-old bread works best as it soaks the custard without falling apart.
- Adjust the cinnamon and sugar amounts based on your preference for sweetness and spice.
- For extra flavor, you can add a splash of orange zest or a pinch of nutmeg to the custard mixture.
- Keep the cooked French toast warm in a low oven (about 200°F or 95°C) if cooking in batches before serving.
