Name: Classic French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 11 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 4 slices of bread (brioche, challah, or thick-cut white bread work well); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of nutmeg; 1 tablespoon butter or oil, for cooking; Maple syrup; Optional toppings: fresh fruit, powdered sugar, whipped cream

Introduction

Classic French toast is a beloved breakfast treat that transforms simple bread into a rich, custardy delight. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and vanilla, it’s quick to make and endlessly satisfying.

The image shows a stack of four thick slices of golden brown French toast, each slice slightly crisp on the edges and soft inside. The toast is placed on a simple white plate, with syrup slowly dripping down the side of the stack, creating a shiny amber stream. The background and surface are a white marbled texture, giving a clean and bright look to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 slices of bread (brioche, challah, or thick-cut white bread work well)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg
1 tablespoon butter or oil, for cooking
Maple syrup, for serving
Optional toppings: fresh fruit, powdered sugar, whipped cream

Instructions

Step 1: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
Step 2: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter or oil to coat the surface.
Step 3: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side without becoming too soggy.
Step 4: Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet and cook until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Step 5: Transfer cooked French toast to a plate and keep warm while you cook the remaining slices.
Step 6: Serve immediately with maple syrup and your choice of optional toppings like fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.

Tips & Variations

Use slightly stale bread as it absorbs the custard better and holds together without falling apart.
For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with cream.
Add a splash of orange liqueur or a sprinkle of orange zest to the egg mixture for a citrus twist.
Try cooking in a cast-iron skillet for a nicely caramelized crust.

Storage

French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster or oven to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

A stack of four thick slices of golden-brown French toast sits on a white plate. Each slice has a slightly crispy, caramelized edge with a soft, fluffy inside showing some light texture. A rich layer of syrup slowly drips down the sides of the toast, adding a shiny, sticky coating. The background is a white marbled surface that makes the warm colors of the toast and syrup stand out. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for French toast?

While you can use most breads, thicker, sturdier ones like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best as they soak up the custard without falling apart.

How do I prevent French toast from becoming soggy?

Use slightly stale bread and avoid soaking it too long in the egg mixture. Cooking on medium heat helps create a crispy outside while keeping the inside tender.

Classic French Toast Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 116 reviews

Classic French Toast is a timeless breakfast favorite made with thick slices of bread soaked in a rich mixture of eggs, milk, vanilla, and warm spices, then pan-fried to a golden perfection. Served with maple syrup and optional toppings like fresh fruit or whipped cream, this recipe delivers a comforting and delicious start to any morning.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 11 minutes
Yield: 4 slices (serves 2) 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Frying
Cuisine: French

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

4 slices of bread (brioche, challah, or thick-cut white bread work well)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg
1 tablespoon butter or oil, for cooking

To Serve

Maple syrup
Optional toppings: fresh fruit, powdered sugar, whipped cream

Instructions

Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together the 2 large eggs, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg until well combined. This mixture will flavor and soak into the bread slices.
Soak the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20-30 seconds on each side. Make sure the bread absorbs enough liquid but does not become too soggy to hold its shape.
Heat the pan: Place a non-stick skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter or oil. Let it melt and spread evenly to prevent sticking and to give a golden crust.
Cook the French toast: Place the soaked bread slices in the hot pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until each side is golden brown and slightly crispy. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning.
Serve immediately: Remove the French toast from the pan and serve hot. Top with maple syrup and any optional toppings like fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Notes

Using thick-cut bread like brioche or challah gives the best texture and flavor.
For a richer dish, substitute whole milk with cream or half-and-half.
To keep French toast warm while cooking the rest, place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F).
Add a dash of orange zest or a splash of rum to the egg mixture for a twist in flavor.
Ensure the pan is adequately heated to achieve a crispy exterior without overcooking the inside.

Keywords: French Toast, Breakfast, Easy Breakfast, Sweet Breakfast, Classic Recipe