Classic French Toast
Thick slices of bread are soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla custard, pan-fried until golden, then finished with a buttery sugar crust for crisp edges and soft, custardy centers.
Servings: 4 Servings
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups whole milk (or a mix of milk and cream for richness)
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon orange zest finely grated with a microplane, optional
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 8 slices bread thick slices (Texas toast, brioche, or challah work great)
- Butter or neutral oil, for cooking
- Granulated sugar for caramelizing
Instructions
- In a large shallow dish (a baking dish or pie plate works great), whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and orange zest (if using) until smooth and well combined.
- Dip each slice of bread into the custard, letting it soak for 20–30 seconds per side. Thicker bread like brioche or Texas toast should absorb enough custard to be soft but not soggy.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of butter or oil to coat the surface. Place the soaked slices on the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and lightly crisp.
- Caramelize the sugar: Once both sides are cooked, brush the top with melted butter. Sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar over the buttered surface. Flip once more and cook for 30–60 seconds, until the sugar melts and caramelizes into a glossy golden crust.
- Serve the French toast warm, topped with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
Notes
Bread: Slightly stale bread works best, it soaks up the custard without falling apart.
Dairy options: Use all milk, or swap in half cream for a richer custard.
Make ahead: The custard can be mixed and refrigerated up to 1 day ahead. Just whisk before using.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 310kcal | Carbohydrates: 41g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 175mg | Sodium: 435mg | Potassium: 281mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 17g | Vitamin A: 390IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 211mg | Iron: 3mg
