The best French toast ever is also the easiest French toast ever! Made with fluffy bread like brioche or challah, and swimming in sugar and cinnamon — you’ll want to make this yummy breakfast recipe at least once a week!
Whenever we have extra time on a weekend morning, we love to make a big breakfast. Things can be hectic during the week, and we may only have time for a grab an on-the-go breakfast like muffins, or we slurp down a bowl of cereal before rushing out the door.
But when the weekend rolls around…it’s French toast for everyone! We’ve been perfecting this recipe for a while now and can confidently say that this is seriously the best French toast ever.
We like to crank things up a notch by using challah, brioche, or Texas toast rather than plain old white bread. It’s especially delicious when it’s covered in berries, syrup, and whipped cream. Top it with whatever you like, and be prepared to serve up a second batch.
Table Of Contents
Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutions
Let’s explore how each ingredient contributes to the dish and offer alternatives for dietary preferences and flavor variations. This section ensures your French toast is not only delicious but also tailored to suit everyone at your table.
- Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy richness, but for a lighter version, use skim milk or a plant-based alternative.
- Eggs: Essential for binding and richness. For an egg-free version, consider flax eggs, mashed banana, or commercial egg replacers.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor. Honey or maple syrup are good alternatives.
- All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the batter. For a gluten-free version, use a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. Fora healthier version, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Ground Cinnamon: Provides warmth and spice. Nutmeg or pumpkin spice can be used for variation.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances flavor. Almond extract is a nice alternative.
- Salt: Balances sweetness.
- Bread: Challah, brioche, or Texas toast are ideal for their thickness and texture.
Using substitutions may affect final taste and texture.
Visual Guide to Making French Toast
Seasonal Variations
Adapt your French toast to the seasons:
- Fall Flavors: Mix in pumpkin spice or top with caramelized apples.
- Summer Treat: Top with fresh berries, lemon curd, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your French toast with your favorite syrup, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Troubleshooting
- Soggy French Toast: Ensure your pan is hot enough and don’t oversoak the bread.
- Burning: Lower the heat. The pan shouldn’t be too hot.
- Uneven Cooking: Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Bland Flavor: Make sure to use enough vanilla and cinnamon, and adjust sugar to taste.
Tips From the Chef
- Let the bread slices sit out for a bit to dry; slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy.
- Whisk the batter thoroughly to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
- Preheat your pan or griddle to the right temperature before adding the bread.
- For an extra rich taste, try adding a splash of heavy cream to the batter.
Storage, Freezer & Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover French toast in the fridge in an airtight container for 4 to 5 days. Reheat in the toaster or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
To freeze, allow the French toast to cool completely. Then, transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet, stacking the toast as needed by placing parchment paper in between each layer. Freeze until solid before placing into an airtight container to freeze for 1 to 2 months.
The Best French Toast Ever
The best French toast ever is also the easiest French toast ever! Made with fluffy bread like brioche or challah, and swimming in sugar and cinnamon — you’ll want to make this yummy breakfast recipe at least once a week!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 7 large eggs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 16 thick slices Challah, Brioche, or Texas Toast
Instructions
Whisk milk and eggs together in a large mixing bowl.
Add in brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until smooth.
Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium high heat.
Soak bread slices in mixture until saturated. Cook bread on each side until golden brown.
Serve with your favorite toppings. Suggestions include berries, whipped cream, and maple syrup.
Notes
To Freeze: cool french toast completely on a wire rack and then transfer the bread to a parchment paper lined baking sheet. French toast can be stacked with a sheet of parchment paper in between each layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable plastic freezer bag for long term storage.
To Reheat: Microwave on high for about 1 minute per slice until warmed through OR toast in a toaster until heated through for a crispy exterior.
