Classic French Toast

Why This Classic French Toast Stands Out

I’ve been making classic French toast for years, and this version with brioche is the one I come back to again and again. The thick, buttery slices soak up just enough of the egg and milk mixture to turn custard-soft inside while the outside gets beautifully golden. It’s simple enough for a weekday breakfast but special enough for brunch with a pile of berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Why You’ll Love This Easy French Toast Recipe

• Rich brioche bread gives it a tender, buttery crumb that holds up perfectly, no soggy slices.
• Ready in under 20 minutes with just a handful of pantry ingredients.
• The balance of cinnamon and vanilla creates that classic, comforting flavor everyone craves.

Key Ingredients for the Best French Toast

• Brioche: Its high butter and egg content gives French toast a rich, tender crumb that holds up well. Substitute challah or Texas toast if needed.
• Eggs: Use large eggs for the right custard-to-bread ratio.
• Whole milk: Provides enough fat for a creamy custard without making it greasy; you can use 2% but avoid skim.

Kitchen Tools for Making French Toast

• Electric griddle (set to 350°F) or a large skillet (cast iron works great)
• Shallow pan or pie plate for the custard
• Spatula for flipping

Tips for Making the Best French Toast

I like to use an electric griddle set to 350°F so I can cook several slices at once. Make sure the surface is hot before you add the butter. For the custard, whisk the eggs and milk together in a shallow pie plate until fully combined, then stir in half the cinnamon. After you’ve dipped half the bread, add the remaining cinnamon and whisk again, that way every slice gets an even coating. Dip each side just long enough to soak through; leaving the bread in the mixture too long will make it soggy. Cook the slices in butter over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, until deep golden brown. If the heat’s too high, the outside will burn before the inside cooks through.

Expert Tips for Fluffy Golden French Toast

For the fluffiest results, let the bread sit out for an hour before dipping, slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better without falling apart. If you’re using fresh brioche, slice it about an inch thick so it holds up during soaking. When flipping, use a thin spatula to slide under the bread gently, keeping the crust intact.

Brioche French Toast Variations to Try

You can easily change up the flavor by swapping the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice or adding a splash of orange juice to the custard. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk and coconut oil instead of butter. If you want a thicker, more custard-like center, try using challah or Texas toast and let it soak an extra ten seconds per side.

What to Serve with French Toast for Breakfast or Brunch

Serve the French toast warm with a pat of butter and a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup. Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a bright pop of color and flavor. For a heartier brunch spread, pair it with crispy bacon or scrambled eggs.

How to Store Leftover French Toast

Let the slices cool completely on a wire rack so they don’t steam. Then place them in an airtight container in a single layer with parchment between layers. They’ll keep in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.

How to Freeze French Toast for Later

To freeze, arrange the cooked, cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1 hour. Transfer to a freezer bag and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat French Toast

Reheat French toast in a toaster or in a 350°F oven on a wire rack for 5 to 7 minutes to restore the crisp exterior. Avoid the microwave, which makes it soft and soggy.

French Toast with Cinnamon: Frequently Asked Questions