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French Toast Recipe - Simple, Cozy, and Perfect for Breakfast

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 thick slices of bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast; day-old is best)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for the pan; add more as needed)
  • Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, sliced bananas, whipped cream, chopped nuts

Method
 

  1. Choose the right bread. Use thick, sturdy slices. Day-old bread is ideal because it soaks up custard without getting soggy.
  2. Make the custard. In a wide bowl, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined. You want no streaks of egg white.
  3. Preheat your pan. Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small pat of butter and let it melt and foam, but don’t let it burn.
  4. Soak the bread. Place a slice of bread in the custard and let it sit for about 10–20 seconds per side. It should absorb the mixture but still hold its shape. Thick brioche may need a little longer.
  5. Cook until golden. Lay the soaked bread on the hot, buttered pan. Cook 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown with crisp edges and a soft center. Add more butter between batches as needed.
  6. Keep warm. If making a larger batch, place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven to stay warm while you finish the rest.
  7. Serve with toppings. Plate warm French toast with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh fruit. Nuts add crunch; a little whipped cream turns it into a treat.