Golden Custardy Breakfast Toast

Theres something magical about standing in a quiet kitchen at sunrise, the smell of cinnamon hitting you before your eyes even fully open. This french toast recipe came from one of those slow sunday mornings where nobody had anywhere to be. I learned that day that the difference between good and incredible french toast is actually just patience and the right bread.

The first time I made this for friends, I accidentally used way too much cream and they still talked about it months later. Now I understand that what I thought was a mistake was actually the secret to that restaurant style texture. Weekends just arent the same without the sound of batter sizzling in a buttered pan.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs: Room temperature eggs whisk into a smoother, more cohesive custard
• 1 cup whole milk: Creates that classic creamy interior we all love
• 2 tbsp heavy cream: The optional secret ingredient for extra rich results
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to caramelize the edges
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Pure vanilla makes all the difference here
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Optional but adds warmth and that breakfast spice aroma
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors
• 8 slices day old brioche or challah: Sturdy bread that soaks without falling apart
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter: For frying and adding that nutty flavor

Instructions

Whisk your custard base:

Combine eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until completely smooth and no streaks remain

Heat your pan:

Warm a skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon butter until it foams slightly

Dip each bread slice:

Cook bread quickly on both sides, just 2 to 3 seconds, to absorb custard without becoming soggy

Cook to golden perfection:

Fry for 2 to 3 minutes per side until deeply golden and crisp, adding butter as needed

Warm serving plates:

Transfer finished slices to plates and keep them warm while you cook the remaining bread

Add your finishing touches:

Serve immediately with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries if you like

Save

My daughter asked if we could have breakfast for dinner after school one chaotic tuesday. That unexpected french toast dinner turned into a monthly tradition that got us through some really busy weeks.

Choosing Your Bread

The bread choice can make or break your results. Brioche and challah are ideal because their structure holds up beautifully to soaking. A thick cut white bread works in a pinch but avoid anything too soft or freshly baked.

Timing Your Cooking

You want the pan hot enough that the bread sizzles immediately upon contact. If the sound is more of a gentle bubbling, your heat is too low and you will end up with a soggy texture.

Perfect Pairings

Bacon or sausage on the side adds that perfect salty contrast to the sweet french toast. Fresh fruit balances the richness and brightens up the whole plate.

• Orange zest in the custard adds bright citrus notes
• A splash of bourbon or rum takes this to dinner party status
• Keep finished slices warm in a 200 degree oven

Save

Some recipes are just worth the extra effort and this french toast has proven itself time and time again.

Recipe Q&A

→ What bread types work best for this dish?

Day-old brioche, challah, or thick white bread absorb the custard well without becoming soggy, providing the ideal texture.

→ Can plant-based alternatives be used?

Yes, substituting plant-based milk and butter achieves a dairy-free version while maintaining rich flavor and texture.

→ How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

Dip the bread slices briefly in the custard mixture to avoid oversaturation but ensure they soak enough to cook through evenly.

→ What toppings complement this breakfast treat?

Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries add sweetness and freshness that enhance the custardy bread’s flavor.

→ Is there a way to add extra flavor to the custard?

Adding orange zest or a splash of liqueur to the egg mixture can introduce pleasant additional aromatic notes.