Perfect French Toast Recipe

When it comes to brunch magic, nothing beats sinking your teeth into a stack of Perfect French Toast. Fluffy, golden, and drizzled with maple syrup, it’s not just a meal but a delightful experience that transports you to your happy place.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Flavors of Vanilla and Spice: The rich, comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla make this French toast truly irresistible.
  • Perfectly Custardy Texture: Allowing the slices to soak ensures each bite is blissfully custardy and not mushy.
  • Simple Yet Elegant: This easy recipe creates a dish that’s both satisfying and suitable for a special occasion.
  • Make Ahead Convenience: Prep it the night before for a no-stress breakfast treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients—it’s amazing how a few simple additions can elevate a dish! Each component plays a crucial role in crafting the taste, texture, and allure of Perfect French Toast.

  • French Brioche Loaf: This tender and slightly sweet bread soaks up the egg mixture beautifully.
  • Large Eggs: The foundation for our custardy base, they bind and enrich the batter.
  • Granulated Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the savory goodness.
  • Salt: A little goes a long way in amplifying flavors.
  • Ground Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Spice it up with these warm, aromatic duo.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and an enticing aroma.
  • Whole Milk: Provides richness and a smooth consistency.
  • Butter: For that perfect golden crust and irresistible flavor.
  • Warmed Maple Syrup: No French toast is complete without this finishing touch.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the best things about Perfect French Toast is its versatility. You can tweak the recipe according to your pantry stock, dietary needs, or simply to satisfy your cravings!

  • Gluten-Free Bread: Use a gluten-free loaf, ensuring all the indulgence without the gluten.
  • Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute milk with almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version with a tropical twist.
  • Fruit Add-Ins: Incorporate fresh berries or sliced bananas into the batter or as a delightful topping.
  • Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the top for added texture and flavor.

How to Make Perfect French Toast

Step 1: Prep Your Bread

Begin by slicing a sliver from each end of the bread and dividing the loaf into even sections, resulting in eight juicy slices. Lay them on a rack to dry overnight, allowing the bread to become slightly stale, which is ideal for soaking up the custard.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

The next day, whisk together eggs with sugar, salt, spices, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Let this aromatic mixture sit in the fridge overnight to enhance flavors.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Pour your custard into a dish and submerge the bread slices, timing them for about 90 seconds per side. This soaking allows the liquid to infuse thoroughly, giving the French toast its signature texture.

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Heat butter in a pan until frothy and then brown your slices to a golden perfection—90 seconds per side does the trick! Serve immediately with softened butter and warmed syrup for the ultimate experience.

Pro Tips for Making Perfect French Toast

  • Bread Prep: Make sure your bread dries adequately overnight for the perfect soak without becoming soggy.
  • Custard Enhancement: Allow the custard mixture to rest overnight for flavors to meld potently.
  • Controlled Heat: Maintain medium heat when browning to ensure a crispy exterior while the inside remains tender.
  • Generous Butter: Don’t skimp on butter—it creates that irresistible golden crust.

How to Serve Perfect French Toast

Perfect French Toast Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your Perfect French Toast with a dusting of powdered sugar or some fresh berries for a vibrant burst of color and flavor. A dollop of whipped cream can also be a delightful addition!

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with crispy bacon, savory sausages, or a fresh fruit salad. For an extra boost of freshness, a side of freshly squeezed orange juice never disappoints.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual slices by placing them slightly stack or use a large platter. Consider a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped nuts to add elegance and texture to each serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Perfect French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will mature, creating an even more delightful treat when reheated.

Freezing

Freeze individual pieces by laying them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. This way, they won’t stick together, and you’ll have delightful French toast any day of the week.

Reheating

Reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F until warmed through, or pop them in the toaster for a quick refresh. Avoid microwaving to maintain a crispy texture.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other types of bread?

    Certainly! While Brioche is ideal, Challah or any stale bread with a firm texture works well to absorb the custard without becoming too soggy.

  2. What if I don’t have time to dry the bread overnight?

    In a pinch, you can partially dry the bread in an oven set to low heat. Just watch it closely to prevent over-drying or toasting it.

  3. Can this recipe be doubled?

    Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients, and you’re ready to serve more delicious French toast to a larger crowd.

  4. What can I use instead of maple syrup?

    Honey, agave nectar, or fruit compotes make excellent alternatives to maple syrup, adding their unique flavors to your dish.

Final Thoughts

Ready to savor the morning? Try making this Perfect French Toast, and let its warmth and sweetness start your day with a smile. I guarantee it’s worth every indulgent bite—your breakfast table is about to become a whole lot happier!

Print
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Perfect French Toast Recipe

Perfect French Toast Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 80 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 12 hours 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (2 slices each)
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: French

Description

This classic French Toast recipe features thick slices of rich brioche soaked overnight in a flavorful custard mixture, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Served with warm butter and maple syrup, it’s perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch that elevates your weekend mornings.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Dry Bread

  • 1 loaf of unsliced French Brioche, approximately 1 pound in weight

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 4 teaspoons granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Few grinds nutmeg
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk

For Cooking and Serving

  • 4 tablespoons butter, plus more to serve with each portion
  • 1 cup warmed maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread: Slice a small sliver off each end of the loaf, then cut the loaf in half. Cut each half into two, then each piece in half again to create eight slices about one inch thick. Lay out the slices on a rack over a sheet tray and let sit uncovered overnight to dry out.
  2. Make the custard: In a medium bowl, vigorously beat the eggs, then whisk in the sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and milk. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
  3. Dip the bread: When ready to cook, whisk the custard mixture once more. Pour it into a casserole dish suitable for dipping. Submerge four slices at a time, timing 90 seconds per side for soaking, then transfer to a tray. Repeat with remaining slices.
  4. Cook the French Toast: Heat a large or two medium griddle pans over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter per pan and wait until melted and slightly browned. Place all soaked bread slices onto the buttered surface, cooking for 90 seconds per side or until golden brown. Remove to a serving platter.
  5. Serve: Serve the French Toast hot, topped with softened butter and heated maple syrup. Typically, serve two slices per person.

Notes

  • Ensure the bread slices are slightly dried out overnight for the best custard absorption.
  • Adjust cooking time for thicker or thinner slices, aiming for a golden crust.
  • Use good quality brioche for a rich, buttery flavor.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
  • Can be kept warm in a low oven if not served immediately.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 slices
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 300 mg
  • Fat: 21 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 10 g
  • Cholesterol: 125 mg

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