Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add in the heavy cream and whole milk, whisking until fully combined.
Step 2: Soak the Brioche Slices
- Pour the custard mixture into a shallow baking dish.
- Place the thick brioche slices in the dish, allowing them to soak for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, ensuring they're fully coated but not soggy.
- For an ultra-custardy interior, let them sit a little longer but avoid over-soaking.
Step 3: Preheat & Butter the Griddle
- Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
- Add unsalted butter and spread it evenly across the surface until melted and sizzling.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
- Carefully transfer the soaked brioche slices to the hot griddle.
- Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, or until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip gently and cook the other side.
- Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
- Plate the French Toast slices.
- Top with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, a generous drizzle of maple syrup, and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
- Optional: Add a pat of butter on top for extra indulgence.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezer:
Freeze slices with parchment paper between layers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheating:
Reheat in a toaster oven or griddle for 3–5 minutes until heated through and crispy. 🥄 Variations Stuffed Brioche French Toast: Add a layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two slices before soaking and cooking. Caramelized Banana Topping: Sauté sliced bananas in brown sugar and butter for a rich topping. Savory Brioche French Toast: Skip sugar and vanilla, add herbs and parmesan, and top with a poached egg. Brioche French Toast Casserole: Layer slices in a baking dish, pour custard over, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning. Cinnamon Sugar Crusted: After soaking, coat the slices in cinnamon sugar before cooking for a caramelized crust. Lemon Ricotta French Toast: Spread lemon-infused ricotta on top for a citrusy twist. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed almonds or pecans on top before serving. Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra-decadent treat. Berry Compote Topping: Cook mixed berries with a bit of sugar to create a warm compote. ❓ 10 FAQs Why is brioche the best bread for French Toast?
Brioche is rich, buttery, and soft, making it perfect for absorbing custard without falling apart. Can I use just milk instead of cream?
Yes, but heavy cream adds extra richness and a creamier texture. How thick should the brioche slices be?
About 1-inch thick for the best custardy interior. Do I need to dry out the bread beforehand?
Slightly stale brioche works best, but fresh can be used with a shorter soaking time. Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes, arrange soaked slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. What’s the secret to crispy edges?
Buttering the griddle well and cooking on medium heat ensures crispy golden edges. Can I make this custard mix ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. How do I keep French Toast warm while making batches?
Place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until ready to serve. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze cooked slices for a quick breakfast option anytime. What are the best toppings for brioche French Toast?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, caramelized fruits, or even a drizzle of honey. 🏁 Conclusion This Perfect Brioche French Toast is soft, buttery, and golden crisp on the outside, with a melt-in-your-mouth custardy center. Whether you're impressing brunch guests or indulging in a weekend treat, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper. No pork. No alcohol. Just pure French Toast bliss in every bite.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezer:
Freeze slices with parchment paper between layers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheating:
Reheat in a toaster oven or griddle for 3–5 minutes until heated through and crispy. 🥄 Variations Stuffed Brioche French Toast: Add a layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two slices before soaking and cooking. Caramelized Banana Topping: Sauté sliced bananas in brown sugar and butter for a rich topping. Savory Brioche French Toast: Skip sugar and vanilla, add herbs and parmesan, and top with a poached egg. Brioche French Toast Casserole: Layer slices in a baking dish, pour custard over, refrigerate overnight, and bake in the morning. Cinnamon Sugar Crusted: After soaking, coat the slices in cinnamon sugar before cooking for a caramelized crust. Lemon Ricotta French Toast: Spread lemon-infused ricotta on top for a citrusy twist. Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle crushed almonds or pecans on top before serving. Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and an egg replacer. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra-decadent treat. Berry Compote Topping: Cook mixed berries with a bit of sugar to create a warm compote. ❓ 10 FAQs Why is brioche the best bread for French Toast?
Brioche is rich, buttery, and soft, making it perfect for absorbing custard without falling apart. Can I use just milk instead of cream?
Yes, but heavy cream adds extra richness and a creamier texture. How thick should the brioche slices be?
About 1-inch thick for the best custardy interior. Do I need to dry out the bread beforehand?
Slightly stale brioche works best, but fresh can be used with a shorter soaking time. Can I bake this instead of pan-frying?
Yes, arrange soaked slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. What’s the secret to crispy edges?
Buttering the griddle well and cooking on medium heat ensures crispy golden edges. Can I make this custard mix ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. How do I keep French Toast warm while making batches?
Place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until ready to serve. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze cooked slices for a quick breakfast option anytime. What are the best toppings for brioche French Toast?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, whipped cream, caramelized fruits, or even a drizzle of honey. 🏁 Conclusion This Perfect Brioche French Toast is soft, buttery, and golden crisp on the outside, with a melt-in-your-mouth custardy center. Whether you're impressing brunch guests or indulging in a weekend treat, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper. No pork. No alcohol. Just pure French Toast bliss in every bite.