Classic French Toast (Print Version)

Golden, custardy bread slices pan-fried to perfection and served with sweet maple syrup.

# Ingredient List:

→ Custard Mixture

01 - 4 large eggs
02 - 1 cup whole milk
03 - 2 tablespoons heavy cream
04 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - Pinch of salt

→ Bread

08 - 8 slices day-old brioche, challah, or thick white bread

→ Cooking

09 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Toppings

10 - Maple syrup for serving
11 - Powdered sugar for dusting
12 - Fresh berries or fruit

# Steps:

01 - Whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt in a large mixing bowl until completely combined and smooth.
02 - Place a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon butter, allowing it to melt and coat the surface evenly.
03 - Dip each bread slice into the custard mixture, soaking for a few seconds per side. Avoid oversoaking to prevent the bread from becoming saturated and falling apart.
04 - Place soaked bread on the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and custard is set. Add additional butter as needed between batches.
05 - Transfer cooked French toast to serving plates and serve immediately topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar dusting, and fresh berries if desired.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The custard stays creamy inside while developing this gorgeous caramelized exterior that feels like breakfast magic
  • It comes together in 20 minutes flat but tastes like you spent way more effort on it
02 -
  • Day old bread is non negotiable here, fresh bread will turn into mush the second it hits the custard
  • Letting the custard soaked bread sit for even 30 seconds before cooking makes a huge difference in texture
03 -
  • A splash of orange zest or almond extract in the custard creates a whole new flavor dimension
  • Letting the finished French toast rest on a wire rack for 1 minute keeps it from getting soggy on the bottom
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