What is the best bread for French toast?

Brioche is the top choice because of its soft, buttery texture and ability to absorb the custard without becoming soggy. Challah and French baguette are great alternatives.

Why is my French toast soggy in the middle?

This usually happens if the bread is too thin or fresh, or if it was soaked in the egg mixture for too long. Use thicker, slightly stale bread and soak briefly.

How do I make French toast crispy?

Cook over medium-low heat, ensuring the pan is preheated. Avoid overcrowding the pan, and use butter or oil for a golden, crispy exterior.

Can I make French toast ahead of time?

Yes, cook it as usual and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 300°F to restore crispness.

The Best French Toast Recipe

Name: The Best French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices Brioche bread; 4 large eggs; 3 tbsp heavy whipping cream; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 tbsp brown sugar, packed; Pinch of salt; ¼-½ tsp cinnamon (optional); Butter or oil for cooking

Description

This easy French toast recipe features thick Brioche slices soaked in a rich vanilla-cinnamon custard, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick breakfast or weekend brunch, this beginner-friendly dish is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and pairs well with fresh fruit, syrup, or powdered sugar.

Ingredients

Scale

8 slices Brioche bread
4 large eggs
3 tbsp heavy whipping cream
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tbsp brown sugar, packed
Pinch of salt
¼–½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
Butter or oil for cooking

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Instructions

Slice the Bread: Cut Brioche into thick slices, about ¾ to 1 inch thick. Slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming too soft.
Prepare the Custard: In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, vanilla extract, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon (if using) until smooth with no visible egg streaks.
Preheat the Pan: Set a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil. Let it fully preheat before adding the bread.
Soak the Bread: Dip each bread slice into the custard for about 15 seconds per side, ensuring even coating without oversaturation. Let any excess drip off before cooking.
Cook the French Toast: Place soaked bread onto the heated pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, flipping once, until golden brown. The center should puff slightly and feel firm when pressed.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy warm with toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Notes

For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with oat, almond, or soy milk.
For extra crispiness, let cooked French toast rest for 1 minute before serving.
To keep warm, place cooked slices in a 200°F oven while preparing the rest.
Best toppings include honey, caramelized bananas, or crushed nuts for added texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Pan-fried
Cuisine: American, French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 slices
Calories: 359
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 326mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 29g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 276mg