Brioche French Toast is a luxurious take on a breakfast classic. The thick, buttery slices soak up a rich vanilla-cinnamon custard, then are pan-fried to golden perfection before finishing in the oven. Topped with nutty brown butter and a drizzle of maple syrup, it’s the ultimate morning indulgence. Perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between crispy and custardy. Whether paired with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of honey, this dish will elevate your breakfast game effortlessly.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 4 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons white sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (for pan-frying, more as needed)
- 6 slices of dry brioche bread (1-inch thick)
- ¼ cup butter (for browning)
- 6 tablespoons maple syrup (or more if preferred)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and salt to make the custard.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Melt 1 ½ teaspoons of butter.
- Dip each slice of brioche into the custard mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Place the soaked bread into the skillet and pan-fry each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Add more butter if needed.
- Transfer the cooked slices onto a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes.
- While the toast is baking, melt ¼ cup of butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir continuously for 3-5 minutes until it browns.
- Drizzle the browned butter over the baked French toast and serve with maple syrup.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 3 servings
Why Brioche Bread is the Best for French Toast
The type of bread you choose for French toast can make or break the dish. While standard sandwich bread can work, brioche is by far the superior choice for several reasons:
- Rich and Buttery Flavor – Brioche is an enriched bread made with eggs and butter, giving it a naturally sweet, rich taste that pairs perfectly with the custard mixture.
- Perfect Absorption – Unlike regular bread, brioche has a sturdy yet soft crumb, meaning it soaks up the milk and egg mixture without becoming too soggy or falling apart.
- Golden Crisp Exterior – When pan-fried, brioche develops a beautiful, golden-brown crust that locks in the creamy custard interior, creating the ideal texture contrast.
- Versatile & Elegant – Brioche not only enhances the flavor but also makes the dish feel more sophisticated and restaurant-worthy.
The Secret to Perfect Brioche French Toast
Achieving the best French toast requires a little more than just dunking bread in eggs and frying it. Here are some key secrets to making it restaurant-quality every time:
1. Use Slightly Stale Brioche
Fresh bread is too soft and will easily fall apart when soaked in the custard mixture. For the best results, use day-old brioche or dry the slices in the oven at 275°F for about 10 minutes before dipping them in the custard.
2. Balance the Custard Mixture
The custard should be rich but not overly thin. Using whole milk or even a mix of heavy cream and milk creates a luxurious texture. Adding a touch of vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar enhances the flavor.
3. Don’t Soak for Too Long
Let the brioche absorb the mixture, but don’t oversaturate it. 10-15 seconds per side is usually enough. If soaked for too long, the bread may become too delicate and break apart.
4. Cook on Medium Heat
Cooking at too high a temperature will brown the outside before the inside is fully cooked. A medium heat setting allows for an even cook, crisping the exterior while keeping the inside soft and creamy.
5. Bake for the Perfect Finish
After pan-frying, finishing the toast in the oven for 8-10 minutes helps set the custard, ensuring the interior is fully cooked and extra fluffy. This step is crucial for thick slices of brioche.
Best Toppings for Brioche French Toast
One of the best parts about French toast is customizing it with delicious toppings. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:
Classic Toppings:
- Maple Syrup & Butter – A timeless favorite that enhances the rich flavor of the brioche.
- Powdered Sugar – A simple dusting adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness.
- Fresh Berries – Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries bring a fresh and tangy contrast.
Gourmet Twists:
- Brown Butter Drizzle – Enhances the nuttiness and adds an irresistible caramel-like flavor.
- Honey & Greek Yogurt – For a lighter, protein-packed breakfast with natural sweetness.
- Nutella & Banana Slices – A chocolatey, indulgent take with extra creaminess.
- Caramelized Apples & Cinnamon – A cozy fall-inspired version.
Crunchy Add-Ons:
- Toasted Nuts (Pecans, Walnuts, or Almonds) – Adds a satisfying crunch.
- Granola or Crushed Graham Crackers – For extra texture.
- Shredded Coconut – A tropical twist for those who love coconut flavors.
Variations of Brioche French Toast
Want to experiment? Here are some delicious variations to try:
1. Stuffed Brioche French Toast
Take your French toast to the next level by stuffing it with cream cheese, mascarpone, peanut butter, or Nutella. Simply spread the filling between two slices of brioche before dipping them in the custard.
2. Overnight Brioche French Toast Casserole
For a make-ahead option, assemble your French toast in a baking dish, let it soak overnight, and bake it in the morning for a no-fuss breakfast.
3. Savory Brioche French Toast
Skip the sugar and vanilla and opt for a savory version by adding cheese, herbs, and a touch of salt. Serve with crispy bacon, avocado, or smoked salmon for a unique brunch dish.
4. French Toast Sticks
Cut brioche into thick strips and cook them as bite-sized French toast sticks. These are great for kids and can be dipped into maple syrup or chocolate sauce.
The History of French Toast
Did you know that French toast wasn’t actually invented in France? The concept of soaking bread in eggs and milk before frying it dates back to ancient Roman times. The dish was originally a way to use up stale bread and prevent food waste.
The French version, known as “pain perdu” (meaning “lost bread”), became popular for turning old bread into a delightful meal. Today, French toast is enjoyed all over the world, with countless regional variations and creative twists.
Pairing Ideas for the Perfect Breakfast
To make Brioche French Toast part of a well-rounded meal, pair it with:
- Freshly brewed coffee or cappuccino – The bitterness balances the sweetness.
- Crispy bacon or sausage – A salty contrast to the sweet toast.
- Scrambled eggs or omelets – Adds protein for a balanced breakfast.
- Fresh fruit smoothies or mimosas – A refreshing, fruity pairing.
Conclusion:
Brioche French Toast is more than just a breakfast dish it’s a decadent experience that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying meal. The combination of buttery brioche, creamy custard, and golden crispiness makes it an unforgettable treat, perfect for special occasions or cozy weekend mornings.
With endless toppings and variations, Brioche French Toast can be tailored to suit any taste preference. Whether you enjoy it classic with maple syrup, stuffed with sweet fillings, or as a savory twist, this dish is a must-try for all breakfast lovers.