French toast is a beloved breakfast classic that has been enjoyed for generations. With its golden-brown exterior and soft, custardy interior, this dish is a perfect way to start your day. This recipe for classic French toast is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. Whether you’re making it for a weekend brunch or a special occasion, this French toast will impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Classic French Toast
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 8 thick slices of bread (brioche, challah, or French bread)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Fresh berries, for serving (optional)
How to Make Classic French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
- Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream until well combined. The combination of milk and cream creates a rich, velvety custard that soaks into the bread beautifully.
- Add the Flavorings: Add the granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the egg mixture. Whisk until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The vanilla and spices give the French toast its characteristic warm and inviting flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Choose the Bread: For the best French toast, use thick slices of bread like brioche, challah, or French bread. These types of bread absorb the custard well without becoming too soggy.
- Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are evenly coated. Allow the bread to soak for about 20-30 seconds on each side. This ensures the bread absorbs enough custard to become soft and flavorful.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Allow the butter to melt and coat the bottom of the pan. The butter adds a delicious richness and helps to create a golden-brown crust.
- Cook the Toast: Place the soaked bread slices in the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through. Repeat with the remaining bread slices, adding more butter to the pan as needed.
Step 4: Serve the French Toast
- Plate the French Toast: Arrange the cooked French toast slices on a serving platter or individual plates. For an extra touch of sweetness, you can dust the French toast with powdered sugar.
- Add Toppings: Serve the French toast with warm maple syrup and fresh berries. The syrup adds a sweet, sticky finish, while the berries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, custardy toast.
About the Main Ingredients
Eggs
Eggs are the foundation of the custard mixture for French toast. They provide structure and help the bread to firm up during cooking. The protein in the eggs also contributes to the golden-brown color and slightly crispy texture of the finished dish.
Whole Milk and Heavy Cream
The combination of whole milk and heavy cream creates a rich and creamy custard that soaks into the bread. Whole milk provides the necessary moisture, while heavy cream adds extra richness and a velvety texture. This blend ensures that the French toast is both moist and indulgent.
Vanilla Extract and Spices
Vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg are essential for flavoring the custard. Vanilla adds a sweet, aromatic note, while cinnamon and nutmeg provide warmth and depth. These spices give French toast its characteristic flavor and make it a comforting and delicious breakfast treat.
Bread
The choice of bread is crucial for making excellent French toast. Thick slices of brioche, challah, or French bread are ideal because they absorb the custard well without becoming too mushy. These types of bread have a slightly sweet flavor and a sturdy texture that holds up well during cooking.
Butter
Butter is used to cook the French toast and adds a rich, savory flavor. It also helps to create a golden-brown crust on the outside of the toast. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Maple Syrup and Toppings
Maple syrup is the classic topping for French toast, adding sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor. Fresh berries, powdered sugar, and other toppings can be added for extra flavor and visual appeal. These toppings complement the rich, custardy toast and make the dish even more enjoyable.
This delicious classic French toast recipe is perfect for a satisfying breakfast or brunch. With its rich custard, warm spices, and golden-brown exterior, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the process of making this delightful dish, and savor the delicious results with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this French toast will bring a touch of comfort and indulgence to your morning.
