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)

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

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.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

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