Perfect French Toast Recipe with Cinnamon and Berries Recipe
Classic French Toast made with thick slices of challah or brioche, soaked in a rich custard of egg yolks, cream, and spices, then pan-fried to a golden caramelized perfection. Served with powdered sugar, fresh berries, and maple syrup for a delicious breakfast treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf challah or brioche bread, thick sliced (1.25-inch thick), or 8-10 thick sliced white bread
Custard Mixture
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1.5 cups heavy cream or half & half
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Pinch nutmeg (optional)
For Frying and Garnish
- Extra tablespoon granulated sugar for caramelizing
- Butter for frying (about 2 tablespoons)
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 1 tablespoon)
- Maple syrup for serving
- Sifted powdered sugar for garnish
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Choose thick slices of challah or brioche, about 1.25 inches thick. If using day-old bread, it will absorb the custard better. Let the slices sit out for a few minutes to dry slightly.
- Make the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, heavy cream (or half & half), granulated sugar, vanilla extract, kosher salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture into a shallow dish. Soak each bread slice for 10 to 20 seconds on both sides, allowing the custard to absorb but not become overly soggy.
- Heat the Pan: Set an electric griddle or skillet to medium-low heat. Add butter and a drizzle of vegetable oil, heating until sizzling but not smoking, to prevent burning.
- Cook the First Side: Place the soaked bread slices on the heated pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the underside is lightly browned. Sprinkle an extra tablespoon of granulated sugar on the cooked side to caramelize.
- Cook the Second Side: Flip the slices carefully, then sprinkle sugar on the side now facing up. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until beautifully caramelized and golden brown.
- Keep Warm: Transfer the cooked French toast to an oven preheated to 170°F (77°C) to keep warm while you cook the remaining slices.
- Serve: Plate the French toast and garnish with sifted powdered sugar, fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. Serve with maple syrup on the side for drizzling.
Notes
- Using day-old bread helps it soak up the custard without falling apart.
- Adjust soaking time based on the bread’s dryness; thicker or drier bread may need longer.
- The combination of butter and oil prevents burning and gives a nice golden crust.
- Sprinkling sugar on each side before caramelizing creates a crisp, sweet crust.
- Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven to serve all at once.
