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🥞 Best Homemade French Toast (Crispy Outside, Soft Inside)

This Best Homemade French Toast delivers the perfect balance of textures — golden and crispy on the outside, soft and custardy on the inside. Made with thick slices of brioche or challah soaked in a rich cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture, this easy breakfast classic comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or whenever you’re craving something warm, sweet, and comforting.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 - 6
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 ½ cups whole milk or half-and-half
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 8 –10 slices thick-cut brioche challah, or Texas toast
  • 2 –3 tbsps butter for cooking

Optional Toppings:

Maple syrup

Powdered sugar

Fresh berries

Whipped cream

Sliced bananas

Nut butter

Method
 

  1. 1️⃣ Prepare the Custard
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined and slightly frothy.
  3. 2️⃣ Soak the Bread
  4. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish. Dip each slice of bread into the custard, soaking for about 15–20 seconds per side. Make sure both sides are evenly coated but not overly soggy.
  5. 3️⃣ Heat the Pan
  6. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add butter and allow it to melt, coating the surface evenly.
  7. 4️⃣ Cook the French Toast
  8. Place soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
  9. 5️⃣ Serve Warm
  10. Transfer to a plate and serve immediately with maple syrup, fruit, powdered sugar, or your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • Best Bread: Slightly stale brioche or challah works best. Fresh bread can become too soft.
  • Extra Crispy Tip: Sprinkle a tiny bit of sugar onto the bread before cooking for a caramelized crust.
  • Make Ahead: Keep cooked slices warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven while finishing batches.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.