Luxurious Brioche French Toast

This brioche French toast transforms ordinary mornings into something special. The buttery, thick-cut slices soak up a sweet egg custard creating a breakfast that feels luxurious yet comes together in just 25 minutes. Perfect for weekend brunches or whenever you need a little extra comfort on your plate.

I first made this brioche French toast for a holiday breakfast and now my family requests it nearly every weekend. The way the crisp exterior gives way to that custardy center never fails to bring smiles around the table.

Ingredients

• Eggs: create the foundation of your custard mixture for rich flavor and golden color
• Whole milk: adds creaminess that thinner milks simply cannot match
• Sugar: balances the eggy flavor with just the right touch of sweetness
• Vanilla extract: brings warmth and depth to the custard
• Butter: provides that irreplaceable golden crust and rich flavor
• Brioche bread: with its tender crumb and buttery flavor makes all the difference
• Pure maple syrup: the real stuff elevates this dish beyond ordinary breakfast
• Fresh berries: add bright flavor and a touch of elegance to the finished dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Custard:

Whisk eggs in a shallow dish like a pie plate or use a 13 x 9 inch baking dish if you want to dip multiple slices at once. Add milk, sugar, and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is completely uniform with no streaks of egg white remaining. The shallow dish allows for even coating of the bread.

Melt the Butter:

Add one tablespoon butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Wait for the butter to completely melt and begin to foam slightly before adding bread. This temperature ensures immediate sizzle when bread touches the surface, creating that perfect golden exterior.

Dip and Cook:

Submerge a slice of brioche into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 10 seconds per side. When butter is foaming, add the soaked bread to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bottom develops a rich golden color, then flip with a thin spatula and cook another 3 to 4 minutes until both sides are evenly browned.

Keep Warm and Repeat:

Transfer cooked slices to a warm platter or place in a 200 degree oven to keep warm. Wipe skillet clean with a paper towel between batches to prevent burning. Add fresh butter and continue cooking remaining slices until all bread and custard mixture are used.

Serve Immediately:

Arrange warm French toast on plates, drizzle with warmed maple syrup, and scatter fresh berries over the top. Serving promptly ensures the perfect contrast between the crisp exterior and tender interior.

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My favorite part of this recipe is watching the brioche transform in the pan. The moment when the custard puffs slightly and the edges turn golden always reminds me of Sunday mornings with my grandmother who taught me that good bread makes all the difference in French toast.

Make Ahead Options

While French toast is best enjoyed fresh from the skillet, you can prepare components ahead of time. Mix the egg custard the night before and refrigerate in a covered container. You can even dip the bread and arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply cook as directed. The pre-soaked bread will cook up beautifully with an even more custardy center.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover French toast can be refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. To reheat, avoid the microwave which can make it soggy. Instead, place pieces on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes, or use a toaster oven on medium setting. For a make-ahead breakfast option, fully cook the French toast, cool completely, and freeze stacked with parchment paper between slices in a freezer bag for up to 1 month.

Perfect Pairings

Transform this brioche French toast into a complete breakfast experience by serving it alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory contrast. A simple fruit salad with mint brings freshness to balance the richness. For special occasions, offer a topping bar with whipped cream, various fruit compotes, chopped nuts, and different syrups. A dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds an elegant touch without additional sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make the custard mixture?

Simply whisk together eggs, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract in a shallow dish until fully combined.

→ What type of bread is best for this dish?

Brioche is highly recommended due to its tender texture and rich flavor, making it ideal for this preparation.

→ How do I prevent the slices from becoming soggy?

Ensure your skillet is properly preheated and cook the brioche slices in batches without overcrowding for even browning.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

Top it with fresh berries, warm maple syrup, or even a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

While it's best served immediately, you can keep it warm in a 200°F oven for a short time before serving.