This recipe delivers restaurant-quality French toast at home with minimal effort. Brioche bread absorbs the custard beautifully without becoming soggy, resulting in a creamy center and delicate texture. It’s versatile, customizable with toppings, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
brioche bread
eggs
milk or cream
granulated sugar
vanilla extract
ground cinnamon
salt
butter or oil for cooking
maple syrup or powdered sugar for serving
Directions
Slice the brioche bread into thick slices.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
Dip each slice of brioche into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak briefly on both sides.
Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Use orange zest for a citrus-flavored twist.
Add nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
Make it dairy free with plant-based milk and oil.
Stuff slices with cream cheese or chocolate spread.
Top with fresh fruit for a lighter option.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, in the oven, or briefly in the microwave. French toast can also be frozen for up to 2 months and reheated directly from frozen.
FAQs
What makes brioche ideal for French toast?
Its rich, buttery texture absorbs custard well without falling apart.
Can I use fresh brioche?
Slightly stale brioche works best, but fresh bread can still be used.
Should I soak the bread for a long time?
No, brioche only needs a brief soak to avoid becoming too soft.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it can be cooked and reheated before serving.
Can I bake brioche French toast?
Yes, it can be baked in a dish for a hands-off option.
What toppings work best?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fruit, or whipped cream are popular.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, the sugar can be reduced or omitted if desired.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mildly sweet and easy for kids to enjoy.
Can I make it gluten free?
Use gluten free brioche-style bread if available.
How do I know it’s cooked through?
The center should feel set and no longer wet.
Conclusion
Brioche French toast is a timeless breakfast favorite that feels luxurious yet approachable. With its soft interior, golden crust, and endless topping options, this recipe is a reliable choice for turning any morning into something special.
Brioche French Toast
Brioche French toast is rich, buttery, and soft on the inside with a lightly crisp golden exterior. Made with thick slices of brioche soaked in a spiced custard, it’s a luxurious yet simple breakfast perfect for brunch or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 slices brioche bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter or oil for cooking
- Maple syrup or powdered sugar, for serving
Instructions
- Slice the brioche bread into thick slices if not already sliced.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil.
- Dip each slice of brioche into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak briefly on both sides.
- Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet.
- Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or your favorite toppings.
Notes
Slightly stale brioche absorbs the custard better than fresh slices.Don’t soak the bread too long or it may become too soft to handle.Add orange zest or nutmeg for extra flavor.Can be made dairy free with plant-based milk and oil.Leftovers freeze well and can be reheated in a toaster or oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 170mg

