Classic French Toast (Printable Version)

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

# What You Need:

→ Dairy & Eggs

01 - 4 large eggs
02 - 1 cup whole milk
03 - 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)

→ Dry Ingredients

04 - 1 tbsp granulated sugar
05 - 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
06 - 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
07 - Pinch of salt

→ Bread

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

→ For Cooking

09 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter

→ Toppings

10 - Maple syrup, to serve
11 - Powdered sugar, to dust (optional)
12 - Fresh berries or fruit (optional)

# Steps:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream (if using), sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined and smooth.
02 - Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the surface.
03 - Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. Do not oversoak or the bread will become too soggy.
04 - Place soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Add more butter to the pan as needed between batches.
05 - Transfer cooked French toast to a serving plate. Repeat with remaining bread slices. Serve warm topped with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh berries if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • This transforms ordinary bread into something luxurious using ingredients you already have in your fridge
  • The custard ratio creates that perfect restaurant style texture crisp outside creamy inside
02 -
  • Day old bread is not a suggestion it is absolutely essential because fresh bread turns into mush the moment it hits the custard
  • Do not soak the bread for longer than 5 seconds total or you will end up with soggy centers that never cook through properly
03 -
  • Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the custard for a bright citrus note that cuts through the richness
  • Let the cooked French toast rest on a wire rack for 1 minute before serving to maintain that crisp exterior
Go Back