This Brioche French Toast is luxuriously soft on the inside with a beautifully golden, buttery exterior. Made with a rich custard of eggs, cream, milk, vanilla, and warm cinnamon, each slice absorbs just the right amount of flavor without turning soggy. Using thick-cut brioche or challah bread creates a restaurant-quality French toast that feels indulgent yet comforting—perfect for slow mornings or special brunches.
Who Is This Recipe For?
- Anyone who loves classic breakfast comfort food
- Home cooks looking for fluffy, custard-style French toast
- Weekend brunch hosts
- Families wanting a simple but elevated breakfast
- Anyone craving bakery-style French toast at home
Why It’s Great
- Rich custard creates a soft, creamy center
- Brioche or challah adds natural sweetness and structure
- Balanced flavor—not overly sweet
- Cooks evenly with a crispy golden crust
- Easy to customize with toppings and flavors
- Perfect for both everyday breakfasts and special occasions
Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon orange liqueur or orange juice (optional)
For Assembly
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread (about 1-inch thick)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Fresh berries or powdered sugar (optional garnish)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large shallow bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet or griddle
- Wire rack and baking sheet
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Custard
In a wide, shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and orange liqueur (if using) until smooth and fully combined.
2. Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of bread into the custard, soaking 20–30 seconds per side. The bread should absorb the mixture without falling apart. Place soaked slices on a wire rack while heating the pan.
3. Cook the French Toast
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted and bubbling, add 2–3 slices of bread (do not overcrowd).
Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until deep golden brown and set in the center.
4. Keep Warm
Transfer cooked slices to a baking sheet and keep warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while finishing remaining batches, adding butter as needed.
5. Serve
Serve immediately with warm maple syrup. Garnish with fresh berries or powdered sugar if desired.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store cooked French toast in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze slices between parchment paper for up to 1 month
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet, oven, or toaster oven for best texture
FAQ
What’s the best bread for French toast?
Brioche and challah are ideal due to their richness and structure.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes—use coconut milk or almond milk and dairy-free butter.
How do I avoid soggy French toast?
Use thick bread and don’t oversoak it.
Can I make the custard ahead of time?
Yes, store it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Is orange liqueur necessary?
No—it simply adds subtle brightness and depth.
Conclusion
This Classic Brioche French Toast is the kind of recipe that never goes out of style. Rich, golden, and perfectly custardy, it transforms simple ingredients into a breakfast worth lingering over. Whether you’re hosting brunch or treating yourself on a quiet morning, this French toast delivers warmth, comfort, and timeless flavor in every bite.
