Easy French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the custard mixture

• Crack 4 room temperature eggs into a large bowl.
• Add 3/4 cup whole milk.
• Add 2 tablespoons sugar.
• Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
• Add 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
• Add a pinch of salt.
• Whisk all ingredients together until smooth and silky.

Step 2: Prepare the bread

• Use thick slices of brioche bread or your preferred bread (challah, milk bread, potato bread, or sourdough).
• You can use fresh or stale bread; stale bread will absorb more custard.

Step 3: Soak the bread

• Dip each bread slice into the custard mixture for a few seconds on each side for a lighter soak.
• For a richer, custard-like interior, soak each side for about 5 seconds.

Step 4: Cook the French toast

• Heat a pan over medium heat.
• Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of butter per batch and let it melt.
• Place soaked bread slices into the hot pan.
• Cook for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
• If your stove runs hot, mix butter with vegetable oil to prevent burning.

Step 5: Keep cooked French toast warm

• Preheat your oven to 200°F (about 93°C).
• Place cooked French toast on a baking sheet with a wire rack.
• Keep in the oven to stay warm while cooking the remaining batches.
• Do not leave in the oven for more than 30 minutes to avoid drying out.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish with maple syrup, fresh berries, and whipped cream as desired.
• Enjoy warm.

Additional Tips

• The custard mixture can be prepared the night before and refrigerated for convenience.
• For extra indulgence, substitute milk with cream or half and half.
• You can customize flavors by adding orange zest, brandy, or other preferred flavorings.
• French toast freezes well; freeze between parchment layers in a sealable bag and reheat by air frying or baking.