Classic French Toast with Brioche or Crusty Bread
Few breakfasts feel as luxurious — yet are so easy to make — as a plate of perfectly golden, fluffy French Toast.
Whether you use buttery brioche, hearty French bread, or tangy sourdough, this simple recipe creates slices that are crisp on the outside, tender in the center, and full of warm, comforting flavors.
Perfect for cozy weekends, brunch gatherings, or even a special weekday treat, this French Toast recipe is a keeper you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients:
(Scale: 1x, 2x, 3x)
- 10 slices brioche (or hearty, crusty French bread or sourdough)*
- 4 eggs
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Butter for griddle
- Warm maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Griddle
Preheat a non-stick electric griddle to 375°F.
Alternatively, you can use a large non-stick skillet or griddle pan over medium-low heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large shallow dish, whisk the eggs together with the cinnamon until well combined.
Add the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Whisk again until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Right before cooking, lightly butter the hot griddle.
Working with one slice at a time:
- Quickly dip both sides of the bread into the custard mixture.
- If you’re using brioche, dip it quickly because it absorbs fast.
- If you’re using crusty French bread or sourdough, allow it to soak slightly longer for that creamy center.
Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection
Place the dipped bread onto the buttered griddle.
Cook until golden brown on the bottom, about 2 minutes, then flip and cook the other side for another 2 minutes, or until equally golden and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve Warm
Serve the French toast hot from the griddle, topped with a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup.
Optional extras: dust with powdered sugar, top with fresh berries, or add a dollop of whipped cream!
Tips for the Best French Toast:
- Choose the right bread: Slightly stale bread works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming soggy.
- Even soaking: Make sure each slice absorbs the custard evenly for the creamiest interior.
- Keep warm: If making a large batch, keep cooked slices warm in a 200°F oven while you finish cooking the rest.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Without Syrup)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 7 g |
| Calcium | 8% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
(Nutrition estimates are based on using brioche and no toppings like syrup or powdered sugar.)
Why You’ll Love This French Toast Recipe:
- Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile — use your favorite type of bread and toppings.
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved.
- Perfect for brunches, special occasions, or cozy weekends at home.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the classic comfort of homemade French Toast — crispy, fluffy, buttery, and absolutely irresistible!