Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf Challah or Brioche Bread (cut into thick slices, preferably stale or day-old)
Custard Mixture
- 2 cups Half-n-Half or Heavy Cream
- 4 large Eggs
- 1/4 cup Sugar
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
For Cooking
- Salted Butter (for cooking)
Instructions
- Slice the Bread: Start by cutting the challah or brioche loaf into thick slices. Using stale or day-old bread is ideal as it is sturdier and absorbs the custard mixture better without falling apart.
- Prepare the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the half-n-half or heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon thoroughly. For a smooth custard with evenly distributed cinnamon, you may use an immersion blender or regular blender to mix the ingredients completely.
- Soak the Bread: Dip each bread slice into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak both sides fully for about 20 seconds. Then lift the bread out and let the excess custard drip off to avoid sogginess while cooking.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a skillet or frying pan over medium-low heat. Adding butter to the pan before cooking will help create a perfect golden-brown crust while adding flavor.
- Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet. Cook each side slowly for about 3 to 5 minutes, ensuring the heat is low enough so the interior cooks through without burning the exterior. Adjust heat as needed if browning too quickly.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the French toast hot from the skillet, topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, additional butter if desired, and real maple syrup for a classic finish.
Notes
- Using stale or day-old bread is recommended for the best texture as it absorbs the custard mixture better without falling apart.
- Cooking on medium-low or low heat ensures the custard inside fully cooks without burning the exterior.
- Adding butter to the pan creates a richer flavor and crispy crust.
- You can substitute half-n-half with heavy cream for a richer custard or use whole milk for a lighter version, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the custard mixture.
- Serve with fresh fruits, whipped cream, or nuts for added texture and taste variations.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
