There’s something truly magical about French toast. Whether it’s a cozy weekend breakfast or a special brunch treat, this classic dish always hits the spot. Crispy on the outside, soft and custardy on the inside, with just the right amount of sweetness—French toast is the ultimate comfort food!
And guess what? Making perfect French toast at home is easier than you think! In this post, I’ll share my go-to recipe, along with pro tips, delicious variations, and serving ideas that will take your breakfast game to the next level. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This French Toast Recipe
- Crispy & Fluffy – A golden, crispy exterior with a soft, custardy center.
- Easy to Make – Just a few simple ingredients, and you’re all set!
- Customizable – Add spices, use different types of bread, or top it with your favorite fruits and syrups.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a special brunch with friends, French toast is always a hit!
What Does This French Toast Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a piece of buttery, caramelized toast that’s slightly crisp on the outside but melts in your mouth with its rich, vanilla-infused custard center. The touch of cinnamon adds warmth, while the maple syrup and powdered sugar take it to another level. It’s pure breakfast bliss!
Ingredients for the Best French Toast
To make the perfect French toast, you’ll need:
- 4 slices of thick bread (Brioche, Challah, or Texas Toast work best!)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (whole milk or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (or honey/maple syrup)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter or oil for cooking
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries
- Whipped cream
- Nuts
- Caramel or chocolate drizzle
Tools You’ll Need
- A shallow dish for mixing the egg mixture
- A whisk or fork
- A non-stick pan or griddle
- A spatula
How to Make French Toast (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Let it soak for about 15-20 seconds per side—just enough to absorb the mixture without getting soggy.
Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a little butter. Once melted, place the soaked bread slices in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate, dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with syrup, and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy warm!
The Best Breads for French Toast
Not all bread is created equal when it comes to French toast! Here are my top picks:
- Brioche – Buttery, soft, and slightly sweet—perfect for decadent French toast.
- Challah – Light and fluffy with a slight chewiness that soaks up the custard beautifully.
- Texas Toast – Thick slices that stay sturdy while soaking up the egg mixture.
- French Baguette – If you like a slightly firmer texture, this is a great choice!
💡 Tip: Stale bread works best! Slightly dried-out bread absorbs the custard without falling apart. If your bread is too fresh, let it sit out for a few hours or lightly toast it before dipping.
What to Serve with French Toast
Pair your French toast with:
- Bacon or sausage – The salty-sweet combo is unbeatable!
- Scrambled eggs – A protein-packed side to balance the sweetness.
- Yogurt & granola – Adds a refreshing contrast to the richness.
- Coffee or fresh juice – Because no breakfast is complete without a great drink!
Pro Tips for the Best French Toast
✅ Use thick-cut bread – Thin slices get too soggy and fall apart.
✅ Don’t over-soak – Too much liquid = mushy toast!
✅ Use a mix of butter & oil – Butter adds flavor, while oil prevents burning.
✅ Cook over medium heat – Too high, and it burns; too low, and it gets soggy.
✅ Let it rest for a minute before serving – This helps the flavors settle.
How to Store & Reheat French Toast
To store:
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To freeze:
- Arrange cooled slices on a baking sheet, freeze for an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. Store for up to 2 months.
To reheat:
- Toast in a toaster for crispy results, or warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. You can also microwave, but it won’t be as crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make French toast without eggs?
Yes! Substitute mashed banana, applesauce, or a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan version.
What’s the best dairy-free option?
Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
Why is my French toast soggy?
This happens if the bread is too thin, too fresh, or soaked for too long. Try using day-old, thick-cut bread and soaking just until coated.
Can I make French toast ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it the night before and reheat it in the morning. It also freezes well for a quick breakfast option.
Final Thoughts
French toast is one of those simple but special recipes that never disappoints. With just a few pantry staples and a couple of minutes, you can whip up a breakfast that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to make. Whether you keep it classic or get creative with toppings, one thing’s for sure—this French toast will be a hit!
If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest or share your delicious creations with me on social media. Happy cooking! 🥞✨
Love This Recipe? Try These Too!
🍑 Peach Cobbler French Toast Bake – A fruity twist on a classic!
🍌 Banana Bread Pancakes – Fluffy, sweet, and packed with banana flavor.
🥞 Cinnamon Roll Pancakes – All the flavors of a cinnamon roll in pancake form!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 250 | Carbs: 30g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 10g | Sugar: 8g
(Exact values may vary based on ingredients used.)
Now, who’s ready to make the best French toast ever? 🍽😋