French toast is the perfect weekend indulgence: golden-brown and crisp on the outside, tender and custardy inside, soaked in an egg-and-milk wash and finished with fresh fruit and maple syrup.
French toast is a simple comfort food that feels like a treat. The contrast of a slightly crisp exterior and a soft, egg-soaked interior makes it a favorite for lazy mornings. A drizzle of maple syrup, a pat of butter, and a scattering of fresh berries—blueberries and sliced strawberries, for example—turn ordinary slices of bread into a luxurious breakfast.
A touch of warm spice balances the sweetness. Cinnamon and a small pinch of nutmeg add depth and a cozy, autumnal aroma; use just enough nutmeg to hint at warmth without overpowering the cinnamon.
Although it’s primarily a breakfast or brunch classic, French toast works well any time of day. It’s also highly adaptable: toppings can be sweet or savory, simple or elaborate, depending on your mood.
The best bread for French toast
Brioche is my top pick for French toast. Its rich, buttery, slightly sweet, and cake-like crumb soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart, resulting in a custardy interior and well-browned exterior. Brioche is an enriched dough made with eggs and generous butter, giving it both flavor and structure.
If you don’t have brioche, challah is a very good alternative; it’s also egg-enriched but dairy-free. Stale or day-old bread is actually ideal: slightly dried slices absorb the custard better and won’t become soggy. Using leftover bread is a great way to prevent waste while making excellent French toast.
Ingredients
- Brioche bread – Use fresh brioche if possible; it provides the richest flavor and texture.
- Half and half – A balance between cream and milk for a creamy custard without being too heavy.
- Eggs – The base of the custard; they give structure and richness.
- Vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg – Vanilla adds sweetness, cinnamon adds warmth, and a pinch of nutmeg enhances complexity.
- Orange zest – Adds a fresh citrus note that brightens the flavors.
- Sugar – A small amount to balance spices and add gentle sweetness.
- Salt – Brings out and balances the flavors.
- Butter – For cooking and finishing the toast; it helps achieve a beautifully browned crust.
- Berries – Fresh blueberries and sliced strawberries add color, freshness, and a slightly tart contrast.
Recipe Tips
- Use slightly dry or day-old bread so the slices absorb the custard without becoming mushy. If needed, lightly toast fresh slices to remove some surface moisture.
- For even soaking, use a shallow rectangular dish that fits the slices; lay them flat and let them absorb the mixture for a few seconds per side.
- If working with frozen brioche, allow a bit more toasting time after dipping so the center warms through and the exterior turns golden.
- Cook slices in a hot skillet with butter until each side is golden brown—about a minute or two per side depending on thickness—then flip once to finish.
How to make brioche French toast
This is a straightforward recipe that yields reliably delicious results. The basic method leaves plenty of room for creativity with toppings.
Prep
Whisk together half and half, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, salt, and orange zest in a shallow rectangular dish until thoroughly combined.
Heat a tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat until melted and foamy.
Dip bread and toast
Dip brioche slices into the custard, coating both sides. Let excess drip off, then place in the hot skillet. Cook until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes per side, depending on slice thickness. Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter if necessary.
Serve immediately with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Store leftovers
Refrigerate leftover French toast in an airtight container for up to four days. To freeze, place toasted slices in a single layer separated by parchment paper or wrap individual slices and store in a large freezer bag for up to three months to avoid sticking.
Reheat gently in a skillet to restore crispness, or use the microwave for a quicker option if texture is less important.
Serve with toppings
French toast pairs well with a wide range of toppings. Sweet and savory options both work, making this a highly versatile dish.
- Maple syrup, chocolate, or Nutella – Maple syrup is classic; Nutella and chocolate sauce are popular with kids and for an extra indulgence.
- Fresh fruit – Bananas, blueberries, strawberries, and other fruits add freshness and balance sweetness.
- Nuts – Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans give crunch and depth.
- Cheese – A dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone adds richness for a more luxurious bite.
- Ice cream – For a decadent brunch or dessert-style serving, add a scoop of your favorite ice cream.
Other Breakfast/Brunch Recipe
Brioche French Toast
Ingredients
- 6 slices Brioche Bread
- 1 cup Half & half
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoon Vanilla
- ½ teaspoon Cinnamon
- Pinch of Nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon Orange Zest
- 2 tablespoon Sugar
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 4 tablespoon Butter
- Berries A few blueberries and slices of strawberry to serve on top of toasts.
Instructions
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In a shallow rectangular dish, whisk together half & half, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, salt, and orange zest until smooth.
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Dip each brioche slice in the mixture, coating both sides, and let excess drip off.
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Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the dipped slices until golden brown, about 1–2 minutes per side.
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Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.
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Serve warm topped with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup.