Classic French Toast
A beloved breakfast staple featuring bread soaked in a sweet egg mixture and pan-fried until golden brown. This simple yet satisfying dish transforms ordinary bread into a warm, custardy treat perfect for leisurely mornings.
Ingredients
- •8 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche, challah, or Texas toast)
- •4 large eggs
- •1 cup whole milk
- •2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- •1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- •1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- •1/4 teaspoon salt
- •2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- •Maple syrup (for serving)
- •Powdered sugar (optional, for serving)
Before you start
Equipment You'll Need
Shallow dish or pie plate
Whisk
Large skillet or griddle
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Safety Tips & Important Notes
Follow these for best results and safety.
Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best results as it absorbs the egg mixture better without becoming soggy.
Don't oversoak the bread or it will fall apart; a quick 5-second dip on each side is sufficient.
Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
If cooking for a crowd, keep finished French toast warm in a 200°F oven on a baking sheet while you finish the batch.
Instructions
In a shallow dish or pie plate, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined and smooth.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the pan.
Dip one slice of bread into the egg mixture, letting it soak for about 5 seconds on each side until saturated but not falling apart.
Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side until golden brown.
Flip the bread and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes on the second side until golden brown and cooked through.
Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate and repeat with remaining bread slices, adding more butter to the pan as needed.
Serve immediately topped with maple syrup and powdered sugar if desired.
Chef's Notes
- •French toast is best served immediately while hot and crispy.
- •Leftover French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in a toaster or oven.
- •Popular toppings include fresh berries, whipped cream, sliced bananas, or a dusting of cinnamon sugar.
- •For a richer flavor, substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for some of the milk.
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