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French Toast

Soft and custardy inside with golden, crisp edges, this classic French toast turns simple ingredients into a rich and satisfying breakfast.

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American, French

Diet Vegetarian

Keyword French Toast, sweet french toast, vanilla french toast

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings

Calories 260

Author Erren Hart

Ingredients

4 large eggs
⅓ cup milk
⅓ cup half and half
½ teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg optional
8 slices thick-cut bread like brioche, white, or sourdough – slightly stale is best!
Butter for the pan
Maple syrup for serving

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

In a large shallow bowl or baking dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, half and half, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Make sure it’s smooth and evenly combined.
Place 1–2 slices of bread at a time into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 20–30 seconds per side – you want the bread to absorb the mixture without becoming soggy and falling apart.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a little butter and let it melt and bubble slightly. Place soaked bread slices onto the skillet and cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.
Stack the warm slices on plates, drizzle with real maple syrup, and top with whatever you love – powdered sugar, fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream.

Notes

Erren’s Top Tips

Getting the soak right is everything. Too short and the center stays dry, too long and it falls apart. Aim for that sweet spot where the bread feels saturated but still sturdy.

Cook over medium heat, not high. If the pan is too hot, the outside browns before the inside cooks through.

Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned pan to prevent sticking and tearing.

If your butter starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly and wipe out the pan before adding fresh butter.

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of salt to the custard. It quietly enhances everything else.

Variations & Add-Ins

Add orange zest to the custard for a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with maple syrup.

Swap cinnamon for pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired version.

Stuff two slices with cream cheese or Nutella before dipping for a filled French toast twist.

Top with sautéed apples cooked in butter and brown sugar for a cozy upgrade.

Storage & Freezing

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to bring back the crisp edges.

Freeze cooked slices in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen in the oven or toaster.

Nutrition