A rich, decadent take on classic French toast with a custard-like interior and golden exterior. Perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Custard Soak:
· 3 large eggs
· ¾ cup heavy cream
· ¾ cup whole milk
· 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
· 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract
· ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
· Pinch of salt
· 1 tablespoon orange liqueur or orange juice (optional)
For Assembly:
· 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread (1-inch thick)
· 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
· Maple syrup, for serving
· Fresh berries or powdered sugar, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the custard mixture by whisking together eggs, heavy cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and orange liqueur, if you are using it, in a large shallow bowl until everything is well combined.
Soak the bread by dipping each slice into the custard mixture. Allow it to rest for about twenty to thirty seconds per side so it fully absorbs the liquid without becoming too soggy. Place the soaked slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet while you heat the pan.
Cook the French toast in a large skillet or griddle placed over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, add two or three slices of bread, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook each side for three to four minutes, until the toast is a deep golden brown and the center feels set when you gently press it.
Keep the cooked slices warm by transferring them to a baking sheet placed in an oven set to two hundred degrees Fahrenheit while you cook the remaining batches. Use additional butter for the pan as needed.
Serve the French toast immediately, accompanied by warm maple syrup and fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar if you like.
Tips for Success
· Use day-old bread for better absorption without falling apart
· Don’t rush the soaking—proper absorption ensures creamy interior
· Maintain medium heat to cook through without burning
· For extra richness, add a tablespoon of cream cheese to the custard mixture
· Try with cinnamon sugar or lemon zest for variation
Variations
The classic richness of this French toast is a perfect canvas for creative flavors. For a warm, spiced variation, consider incorporating the zest of one orange and half a teaspoon of cardamom into the custard mixture, replacing the cinnamon. This brightens the dish with a fragrant, citrusy aroma.
For a truly indulgent dessert-for-breakfast option, prepare a batch of salted caramel sauce for serving. A drizzle over the golden toast, paired with toasted pecans and sliced bananas, creates a decadent experience.
Alternatively, for a nutty and cozy twist, substitute the granulated sugar in the custard with pure maple syrup and add two tablespoons of finely ground toasted pecans or almonds to the soak, which will toast further as the bread cooks, adding a wonderful depth of texture and flavor.
How to Store
Leftover cooked French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best texture, place parchment paper between slices to prevent them from sticking together.
While the custardy interior will remain soft, the beautifully crispy exterior will soften upon storage. For longer preservation, freezing is an excellent option.
Arrange cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment.
They can be stored frozen for up to two months, providing a convenient and delicious breakfast option ready at a moment’s notice.
How to Reheat
To recapture the delightful contrast of textures, avoid the microwave, which will steam the toast and leave it uniformly soft.
Instead, reheat refrigerated slices directly in a toaster, toaster oven, or skillet over medium heat until warmed through and the exterior is re-crisped.
For frozen slices, there is no need to thaw; simply cook them in a buttered skillet over medium-low heat for a few minutes per side, covering briefly to ensure the center is thoroughly heated.
This method effectively revives the golden exterior and warm, creamy interior, making your French toast taste nearly as splendid as when it was first made.
Enjoy this luxurious breakfast treat that’s crispy outside and creamy inside!