Name: Custard French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 to 10 slices of thick-cut bread (preferably day-old brioche, challah, or French bread); 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; ½ cup heavy cream; 3 tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); ¼ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for the skillet (plus more as needed); Maple syrup, for serving; Fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream (optional, for topping)

If you think French toast is just bread dipped in egg and pan-fried until golden, get ready to have your breakfast expectations delightfully shattered. Custard French Toast is the elevated, ultra-luxurious cousin of the weekend brunch classic. We’re not just dipping bread into eggs and milk here—we’re soaking thick, pillowy slices in a creamy, rich custard made with eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, and a touch of sugar. What you get is a French toast that’s crisp on the outside, custardy and soft in the center, and absolutely bursting with flavor.

This is the kind of recipe that turns your kitchen into the coziest corner of a Parisian café. It’s Sunday morning comfort, it’s lazy brunch with friends, it’s breakfast-in-bed on a rainy day. Whether you top it with berries, drizzle it in syrup, or dust it with powdered sugar, Custard French Toast always brings that extra something special to the table. One bite and you’ll know—you’re not just having French toast. You’re having an experience.

Why You’ll Love This Custard French Toast

Unbelievably Rich and Creamy Texture: The custard soak takes regular French toast to dreamy new levels. It gives each slice that luscious, almost pudding-like interior without ever feeling soggy.
Golden Crispy Edges: Thanks to a good sear in the pan (hello, butter!), you still get that golden exterior and irresistible bite that contrasts beautifully with the soft center.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Want to impress guests at brunch? Or maybe just treat yourself to something extra on a random Tuesday? This is your go-to. It feels decadent without being difficult.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the custard the night before, soak your bread in the morning, and you’ve got a gourmet breakfast in minutes. It’s also ideal for doubling or tripling for a crowd.
Customizable Toppings: Whether you go the classic route with maple syrup or get creative with caramel sauce, whipped cream, or stewed fruit, Custard French Toast plays well with just about any topping.
Kid and Adult Approved: It’s got that sweet, familiar flavor kids love, but the custard base gives it a richness adults will appreciate.
Great Way to Use Up Bread: Got a loaf of slightly stale challah, brioche, or sourdough? This recipe gives it a new life—and a delicious one at that.
Balanced Flavor: The vanilla, cream, and slight sweetness don’t overpower—it’s elegant and subtle, allowing your toppings to shine.
Versatile Bread Options: You can use thick-cut sandwich bread, artisanal loaves, or even croissants for an ultra-decadent twist.
Elegant but Easy: No fancy equipment, no long prep time. Just mix, soak, and cook. It’s low-effort luxury at its finest.

Preparation Time and Yield

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4 to 6 people (about 8–10 slices)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 320
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 19g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g

Ingredients for Custard French Toast

8 to 10 slices of thick-cut bread (preferably day-old brioche, challah, or French bread)
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for the skillet (plus more as needed)
Maple syrup, for serving
Fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Custard French Toast

Step 1: Make the Custard Base

In a medium mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until smooth. Add the milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Whisk everything together until fully combined and slightly frothy. This is your rich, creamy custard base.

Step 2: Prep the Bread

Lay out your bread slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet or platter. If they’re not already a day old, let them sit out for 15–20 minutes to dry out slightly—this helps them soak up the custard without falling apart.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 15–30 seconds per side depending on the thickness and dryness of the bread. Make sure the slices are fully saturated but not so soaked they fall apart. Place the soaked slices on a clean plate or tray.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

Place a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, swirling it around to coat the surface evenly.

Step 5: Cook the French Toast

Carefully place the soaked bread slices into the skillet, working in batches if needed to avoid crowding the pan. Cook each slice for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp on the outside. Add more butter to the pan between batches if necessary.

Step 6: Keep Warm (Optional)

If you’re cooking for a crowd, keep the finished French toast slices warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the rest. Place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet so they stay crisp.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Plate the French toast while it’s still hot. Drizzle generously with maple syrup, add a dusting of powdered sugar, and toss on some fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream if you like. Now dig in and savor every custardy, crispy bite.

Ingredient Background

One of the most magical parts of Custard French Toast is how a few humble ingredients—many of which are probably already in your kitchen—can come together to create something incredibly indulgent. Each one plays a crucial role in both the flavor and texture of the final dish, and knowing a bit more about them will only deepen your appreciation as you cook.

Let’s start with the bread. While you could technically use any bread, varieties like brioche, challah, or French bread are the real MVPs here. These breads are naturally a little richer and sturdier, meaning they hold up well to soaking and fry up with a perfect golden crust. Brioche, with its buttery crumb, delivers a dessert-like quality. Challah brings an eggy softness that marries beautifully with the custard. Even day-old French bread, with its denser interior, soaks up the custard without falling apart, making it perfect for that signature creamy center.

The eggs and cream are the real stars of the custard base. Eggs provide structure and body, allowing the soaked bread to firm up as it cooks. Whole milk offers balance, but it’s the heavy cream that adds richness and depth, making every bite feel luxurious. The combination of the two creates that dreamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that sets this version apart from your average diner-style French toast.

And then we have the flavor enhancers. Vanilla extract lends warmth and sweetness, wrapping the whole dish in a subtle, bakery-like aroma. A little granulated sugar gives the custard just enough sweetness without overwhelming it. Ground cinnamon is optional, but it adds a cozy spice note that feels like a hug on a cold morning. Lastly, a pinch of salt brings it all together, enhancing every other flavor and making sure the dish isn’t one-dimensional.

Technique Tips for Custard French Toast

Perfecting Custard French Toast is all about striking the right balance between creamy and crisp. While the recipe may seem simple at first glance, there are a few insider tips and tricks that can take your breakfast game from good to unforgettable.

First and foremost, don’t underestimate the power of stale bread. Fresh bread tends to be too soft, which means it can become soggy and fall apart when soaked in the custard. Letting your bread sit out overnight or using day-old slices gives it the strength to hold up to the rich custard while still absorbing all those delicious flavors. The result? French toast with a custardy center and a golden, pan-crisped edge that doesn’t collapse under your fork.

The custard soak time matters too. You want the bread slices to be fully saturated but not waterlogged. About 15 to 30 seconds per side is ideal for most breads, but thicker slices or drier loaves might need a bit more time. If the bread floats or still feels dry in the center after a brief soak, give it a few more seconds. The key is to ensure the custard has penetrated without making the slice floppy or overly delicate.

Cooking temperature also plays a huge role. Medium heat is your sweet spot. Too hot, and the outside will burn before the custard inside sets. Too low, and your toast might turn out pale and rubbery. A nonstick skillet or well-seasoned griddle is ideal, and always cook in butter—it adds flavor, helps with browning, and gives you that signature crispy finish. Let each slice cook undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes per side so it can develop that picture-perfect golden crust.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Custard French Toast is already a stunner on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate the presentation for guests or a special occasion, there are some delightful ways to serve it that go beyond the traditional.

One visually appealing approach is to serve the slices stacked high, almost like a breakfast tower. You can layer thin spreads of mascarpone or whipped cream between each piece, then drizzle the entire stack with warm berry compote and a sprinkle of toasted nuts. The effect is dramatic, delicious, and almost too pretty to eat—almost.

Another elegant option is to cut the cooked French toast slices into thick strips or fingers and serve them upright in a tall glass or mini parfait cup. Alternate layers of fruit and cream or drizzle in some honey or caramel sauce between each strip. This format is perfect for brunch buffets, bridal showers, or just a creative twist on a weekday breakfast that feels totally new.

If you want to take the dessert route, try turning your Custard French Toast into a plated dish reminiscent of a bakery treat. Arrange two triangle-cut slices on the plate with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream in the center. Drizzle with chocolate ganache or berry coulis, and garnish with fresh mint leaves and edible flowers. It’s French toast with fine-dining flair.

Freezing and Storing Custard French Toast

Whether you’ve got leftovers or you’re planning ahead for a busy week, Custard French Toast is surprisingly freezer- and fridge-friendly. With just a little care, you can preserve that rich flavor and texture without sacrificing quality.

If you’re storing leftovers in the fridge, let the French toast slices cool completely before stacking them with parchment paper in between. Place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, a quick toast in a hot skillet or 350°F oven brings back the crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the toast rubbery and unevenly heated.

Freezing is just as easy and great for prepping in bulk. Once the cooked slices have cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 30 minutes. This flash-freezing step helps prevent the slices from sticking together. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment. They’ll keep well for up to two months.

To reheat from frozen, you don’t even need to thaw them. Pop them into a toaster oven, conventional oven, or skillet over medium heat until hot and golden. The toaster is especially handy for busy mornings—just toss in a slice or two and have brunch-worthy French toast in minutes.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Even though Custard French Toast leans toward the indulgent side, there are some clever ways to lighten it up without losing that cozy, satisfying flavor. These tweaks are especially helpful if you’re watching your intake or just want to keep things a bit more balanced.

To start, you can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter dairy option like 2% milk, almond milk, or even oat milk. Keep in mind, the texture may not be quite as rich, but you’ll still get a creamy consistency, especially if you use a thicker plant-based milk. Combining one egg with egg whites can also reduce the overall fat content while still giving structure to the custard base.

Instead of traditional white bread or brioche, consider using whole grain or sprouted grain bread. These choices are higher in fiber and tend to have a lower glycemic index, which means they’ll keep you fuller longer and cause less of a sugar spike. They also add a lovely nutty flavor that pairs well with cinnamon, vanilla, and fruit toppings.

Lastly, if you want to minimize added sugar, reduce the sugar in the custard or skip it entirely and rely on natural sweetness from your toppings. A handful of fresh berries, a spoonful of unsweetened applesauce, or a drizzle of honey can add just enough sweetness without going overboard. A dusting of cinnamon or cocoa powder can also add flavor without extra calories.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Custard French Toast is a showstopper at nearly any gathering, whether you’re throwing a laid-back brunch or planning a special occasion. Its ability to be both rustic and elegant makes it an excellent fit for a wide range of events.

For family brunches or weekend breakfasts, serve the French toast buffet-style with a variety of toppings like fresh fruit, syrups, nut butters, and flavored whipped creams. This allows everyone to build their own perfect plate, and it makes the meal feel interactive and fun. Add some scrambled eggs and turkey sausage on the side, and you’ve got a full spread that feels celebratory without much effort.

If you’re hosting a holiday breakfast or a baby shower, dress it up with presentation. Cut the toast into smaller portions and serve it on platters with decorative toothpicks and individual ramekins of syrup. Mini versions of the toast—almost like French toast bites—can be stacked and skewered for a fancy-yet-finger-food vibe that’s easy to pass around.

For romantic mornings or breakfast in bed, keep it simple but stunning. Two or three perfectly browned slices arranged with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a few fresh berries, and a small carafe of warm syrup create a plate that feels personal and thoughtful. Add a cup of coffee or a fresh mimosa, and you’ve got a breakfast moment that feels straight out of a movie.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Custard French Toast the night before?

Yes! You can prep the custard mixture and soak the bread overnight in the fridge. This makes the interior even creamier. Just cook the slices fresh in the morning for the best texture.

2. What’s the best bread for Custard French Toast?

Brioche, challah, or French bread work best because they’re thick, sturdy, and absorb custard beautifully without falling apart.

3. Can I freeze Custard French Toast?

Absolutely. Cook and cool the slices completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. Reheat in the toaster or oven.

4. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes, use almond milk or oat milk in place of dairy, and skip the cream. The texture will be slightly less rich but still delicious.

5. How do I keep French toast warm for a crowd?

Place cooked slices on a baking rack in a 200°F oven while you finish cooking the rest. This keeps them warm and crisp.

6. Why is my French toast soggy?

It could be due to using very fresh or overly soft bread, or over-soaking. Use slightly stale bread and soak just until saturated.

7. Can I bake this instead of frying?

You can! Arrange the soaked slices on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

8. What toppings go best with Custard French Toast?

Fresh berries, powdered sugar, maple syrup, whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even a dusting of cinnamon sugar all work beautifully.

9. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute with your favorite thick-cut gluten-free bread. Be sure it’s firm enough to soak without disintegrating.

10. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can replace it with additional whole milk or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter texture.

Conclusion

Custard French Toast isn’t just another breakfast recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort, warmth, and indulgence in every bite. It captures the essence of slow, mindful mornings and turns even the simplest ingredients into a luxurious treat that feels like a little culinary hug. Whether you’re preparing it for a special brunch, a quiet morning in, or just because you deserve something extra, this dish never disappoints.

From the golden, crisp edges to the soft, creamy interior, every element is thoughtfully balanced to deliver maximum flavor and texture. It’s adaptable to your favorite breads and toppings, yet always holds onto that nostalgic, soul-warming quality that makes French toast such a timeless favorite. You can dress it up or keep it simple, serve it sweet or even slightly savory—the versatility is part of the fun.

So go ahead, bookmark this recipe and make it a staple in your kitchen. Because once you’ve had Custard French Toast done right, there’s no going back to the ordinary stuff. Your mornings (and your taste buds) will thank you.