There’s something truly magical about the way a few simple ingredients can transform into a breakfast that feels luxurious, indulgent, and downright comforting. Brioche French Toast is a recipe that embodies all of that magic. Imagine buttery, golden-brown slices of brioche, soaked in a luscious vanilla custard and pan-fried to crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside perfection. Whether you’re making this for a relaxed morning at home or wowing a brunch crowd, this dish never fails to impress.
This recipe is extra special for me because it’s one of those meals that can make an ordinary day feel extraordinary. And I promise, it’s simpler than you think to achieve that café-quality French toast in your own kitchen. So, let’s dive in—I’m so excited to share all the tips, tricks, and topping ideas to help you master this timeless breakfast favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Brioche French Toast
If you’ve never had French toast made with brioche bread, you’re in for a real treat. Here’s why this recipe is going to win your heart:
- Irresistible Flavor: Buttery, sweet brioche paired with hints of cinnamon and vanilla makes for a breakfast that’s both decadent and satisfying.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The custard-soaked bread is soft and rich on the inside, with perfectly golden, crispy edges on the outside.
- Customizable Toppings: From syrup and berries to Nutella or whipped cream, the possibilities are endless!
- Great for Gatherings: This recipe is easy to scale up, making it perfect for hosting a brunch or celebrating special mornings.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to making French toast, this recipe is approachable, foolproof, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Brioche French Toast
Let’s take a quick look at what you’ll need to make this classic recipe. Chances are, you already have most of these ingredients in your kitchen!
For the French Toast:
- Brioche Bread (8–10 slices): Slightly stale, thick-cut slices are ideal for absorbing the custard without becoming soggy.
- Eggs (4 large): These provide structure and richness to the custard.
- Milk (1 cup): Whole milk is recommended, but you can use alternatives like almond or oat milk.
- Heavy Cream (½ cup): For a creamy, luxurious texture.
- Vanilla Extract (1 ½ tsp): Adds a warm, sweet aroma.
- Ground Cinnamon (½ tsp): Optional but highly recommended for a hint of spice.
- Sugar (2 tbsp): Just enough to sweeten the custard.
- Butter (for cooking): Ensures crispy, golden edges and enhances the flavor.
Topping Ideas:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- Whipped cream or mascarpone
- Nutella, peanut butter, or almond butter
Necessary Tools
- A shallow bowl or dish for soaking the bread
- A non-stick skillet or griddle
- A whisk
- A spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Brioche French Toast
Making brioche French toast is surprisingly simple! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create this classic breakfast:
1. Prepare the Custard
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using). Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
2. Soak the Brioche
Dip each slice of brioche into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Allow the bread to soak for 15–20 seconds per side, but don’t let it get too soggy.
3. Heat Your Skillet
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a generous pat of butter. Allow the butter to melt and coat the surface.
4. Cook the French Toast
Carefully transfer the soaked slices of brioche to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the cooked French toast to a serving plate. Add your favorite toppings, and enjoy while it’s still warm!
Topping and Serving Suggestions
One of the best things about brioche French toast is how customizable it is. Here are a few topping ideas to inspire you:
- Classic Combination: Maple syrup and a pat of butter.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: Top with sliced bananas, strawberries, or a handful of blueberries.
- Sweet and Crunchy: Sprinkle with powdered sugar and crushed nuts (almonds or pecans are great).
- Chocolate Lovers’ Dream: Drizzle Nutella or melted chocolate over the top.
- Tropical Twist: Add a dollop of coconut cream and some toasted coconut flakes.
To create a full breakfast spread, consider serving your French toast alongside these recipes:
- Mini Pancakes Recipe: Perfect for kids or anyone who loves bite-sized breakfast treats.
- Bacon, Egg, and Cheese Biscuit: A savory option to balance out the sweetness of French toast.
- Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe: If you’re hosting brunch, this smoky, cheesy side dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Making the Best Brioche French Toast
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale brioche holds up better when soaked in custard, preventing soggy slices.
- Preheat the Skillet: Ensure your pan is fully heated before cooking to get that golden-brown crust.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the slices in batches so they brown evenly.
- Keep It Warm: If making multiple batches, keep the cooked slices warm in an oven set to 200°F.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: For extra flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or a pinch of nutmeg to the custard.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers (which might not happen, let’s be honest!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerate: Store the cooled French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Lay slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a toaster oven or skillet to bring back the crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk, and swap heavy cream for coconut cream. Replace butter with a plant-based alternative for cooking.
Can I use bread other than brioche?
Yes! While brioche is ideal for its buttery richness, challah, sourdough, or thick slices of Texas toast also work beautifully.
How do I prevent soggy French toast?
Make sure to use slightly stale bread and avoid oversoaking it in the custard mixture. Also, cook over medium heat to ensure the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the custard mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. You can also pre-soak the bread and refrigerate it overnight for an easy morning cook.
Conclusion
Brioche French Toast is the ultimate breakfast indulgence—soft, custardy, buttery, and oh-so-versatile. It’s a recipe that turns simple ingredients into something truly memorable, whether you’re treating yourself on a lazy Sunday morning or impressing friends at brunch.
Once you give this recipe a try, I’m confident it’ll become one of your favorites. I’d love to see how yours turns out—share your creations with me on Pinterest or in the comments below! And if you’re in the mood to explore more delicious breakfast ideas, check out these recipes:
Happy cooking and even happier eating! 🥞
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 9g
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