Description

This Best French Toast Recipe features thickly sliced challah or brioche bread soaked in a rich custard mixture of half-n-half, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a decadent breakfast or brunch, it serves up fluffy, flavorful slices that pair beautifully with traditional toppings like maple syrup and powdered sugar.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

1 loaf Challah or Brioche Bread (thickly sliced)

Custard Mixture

2 cups Half-n-Half or Heavy Cream
4 large Eggs
1/4 cup Sugar
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon

For Cooking

Salted Butter (for cooking)

Instructions

Prepare the Bread: Slice the challah or brioche bread into thick slices. Using slightly stale bread is recommended as it soaks up the custard better without falling apart.
Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the half-n-half (or heavy cream), eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20 seconds on each side. Let any excess custard drip off before cooking.
Heat the Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add enough salted butter to coat the pan thoroughly.
Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread slices into the hot skillet and cook until golden brown on the bottom, about 3-5 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until equally golden and cooked through, another 3-5 minutes.
Serve: Serve the French toast immediately with your favorite toppings such as powdered sugar and maple syrup for a classic finish.

Notes

Using slightly stale bread improves custard absorption and texture.
Cook on medium-low heat to ensure the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
Try garnishing with fresh berries, whipped cream, or nuts for added flavor and texture.
For a dairy-free version, substitute half-n-half with almond or oat milk and use a suitable egg substitute.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Keywords: French Toast, Breakfast, Brunch, Brioche, Challah, Custard, Easy Recipe, Sweet