Best French Toast Ever Recipe
If you’ve ever wished brunch at home could feel as decadent as dining out, the Best French Toast Ever is your new go-to. This golden, custardy classic is simple to make yet incredibly rich and flavorful, thanks to a few choice ingredients and the right techniques. Every bite delivers the perfect balance of creaminess, a hint of cinnamon, and just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re serving up a leisurely Saturday breakfast or looking to impress overnight guests, this recipe will earn rave reviews at your table—guaranteed!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Best French Toast Ever lies in using everyday ingredients you probably already have, but each one truly matters. Choose high-quality bread, fresh eggs, and real vanilla for a breakfast that’s light, fluffy, and absolutely unforgettable.
- 4 large eggs: The foundation of your custard—responsible for that trademark richness and structure.
- 1 cup whole milk: Whole milk helps keep the texture creamy and prevents the toast from being too dense.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Gives your custard an ultra-luxurious mouthfeel and adds depth.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Sweetens just enough to complement your toppings without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Lends warmth and that classic French toast aroma you can’t resist.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of cozy spice.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and brings all the flavors to life.
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread (preferably day-old): These breads hold up beautifully to soaking and deliver an airy, pillowy bite every time.
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking): Creates those irresistible golden, crispy edges on each slice.
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries for serving: Timeless toppings that add both flavor and a pop of color.
How to Make Best French Toast Ever
Step 1: Whisk Up the Custard
Start by grabbing your largest bowl—it’s where the flavor magic begins! Combine eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a dash of salt. Whisk until the mixture is perfectly smooth and a little frothy. This custard transforms simple bread into a dreamy, tender treat.
Step 2: Prep the Pan
Preheat your nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a pat of butter and let it melt, swirling the pan to cover every corner. This step ensures each slice cooks evenly and develops those classic golden edges that make the Best French Toast Ever so beloved.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Take your thick, day-old slices of brioche or challah and dip them into the custard, letting them soak for a few seconds per side. The slightly stale bread will absorb the luscious mixture without turning soggy, giving you a texture that’s both packed with flavor and delightfully light.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Carefully transfer your soaked bread slices to the hot, buttery skillet. Cook each side for 2–3 minutes, or until they’re deep golden and the edges are gently crisp. Don’t overcrowd the pan—give each slice a little room to cook up those irresistible crispy bits!
Step 5: Repeat and Serve
Continue dipping, cooking, and repeating with all the bread, adding more butter to the skillet as needed. Once your kitchen smells like heaven and every slice is perfectly golden, serve your Best French Toast Ever warm, piled high with berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and plenty of maple syrup.
How to Serve Best French Toast Ever
Garnishes
Sometimes, it’s the finishing touches that make a legendary brunch. Pile fresh berries over the top for a burst of color, dust each plate with powdered sugar for a snowy effect, or add a pat of butter that melts into the warm toast. A drizzle of maple syrup ties it all together, making every bite of the Best French Toast Ever even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
To round out your breakfast or brunch spread, think crisp bacon, sausage links, or a bowl of yogurt and granola for freshness. For a vegetarian twist, try roasted potatoes or a vibrant mixed fruit salad that balances the richness of the toast perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Best French Toast Ever as a show-stopping stack, alternating slices with layers of berries or even a smear of whipped cream cheese. For a brunch buffet, cut slices into triangles and arrange them on a platter with tiny pitchers of syrup so guests can help themselves. Or use cookie cutters to make fun shapes for kids—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra slices, allow the French toast to cool completely before storing. Place pieces in a single layer in an airtight container, separating each with parchment to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge without losing that custardy texture.
Freezing
Want to save some Best French Toast Ever for future cravings? Stack cooled slices with parchment paper between them, seal in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to two months. This method protects the texture and makes for a snappy breakfast fix on busy days.
Reheating
To bring those golden slices back to life, reheat them in a toaster oven or on a griddle over low heat. You can also use the microwave for convenience, but to keep that signature crisp edge, a few minutes in the oven is best. Top with your favorite garnishes and enjoy as if freshly made!
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of brioche or challah?
You can, but for the true Best French Toast Ever experience, opt for thick-cut, sturdy bread like brioche or challah. Softer sandwich bread can become mushy and fall apart easily when soaked, while sturdier options produce that coveted custardy center with crisp edges.
Is it okay to use low-fat milk or dairy alternatives?
Absolutely! While whole milk and heavy cream create an ultra-rich flavor, you can substitute with lower-fat milk or your favorite dairy-free milk in a pinch. Just keep in mind, you might lose a bit of creaminess, but your Best French Toast Ever will still taste delicious!
How do I keep French toast warm for a crowd?
If you’re making a big batch, preheat your oven to 200°F and place cooked slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This keeps the toast warm and crisp without drying it out—perfect for serving the Best French Toast Ever to everyone at once.
Can I make the custard ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk together the custard the night before and store it in the fridge. Give it a quick stir in the morning before dipping the bread, and you’ll shave minutes off your morning routine without sacrificing the signature taste of the Best French Toast Ever.
What toppings go best with French toast?
This is where you can get creative! While maple syrup and powdered sugar are classics, fresh whipped cream, caramelized bananas, or a fruit compote make amazing additions. Try toasted nuts or a little chocolate drizzle for a sweet twist on the Best French Toast Ever.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making the Best French Toast Ever at home—each slice turns everyday ingredients into a breakfast masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting brunch or simply treating yourself, don’t wait to experience just how easy and rewarding this recipe can be. Happy cooking and enjoy every moment (and bite) of your new favorite morning tradition!
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Best French Toast Ever Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent delight of the Best French Toast Ever. This recipe combines rich custard-soaked brioche slices with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, creating a breakfast favorite that’s perfect for leisurely mornings.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Additional:
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Cook the French Toast: Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, then cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries.
Notes
- For an extra indulgent version, add a splash of orange liqueur or a pinch of nutmeg to the custard.
- Use stale bread for the best texture—it soaks up more custard without falling apart.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
