Classic French Toast

French toast combines rich custard-soaked bread with warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom, creating a comforting and flavorful treat.

Overhead Shot of Slices of French Toast on a Blue Plate with Fruit

Slices of French Toast on a Blue Plate with Fruit

Classic French Toast With Upgraded Flavors

I love making French toast—it’s one of the first things I ever learned to cook as a child, and I have such fond memories of those early attempts. Back then, the custard was simple: just cinnamon, eggs, and milk. Over time, I’ve explored flavors and spices, discovering how they complement one another. This recipe features vanilla and almond extract for a subtly nutty depth, with nutmeg adding a touch of warmth. Cardamom lends a slightly citrusy note that ties all the flavors together beautifully. Top it with a dusting of powdered sugar and warm pure maple syrup and you have an at home recipe with restaurant quality taste.

Here’s why I love this dish!

  • It’s a delicate balance of flavors and spices that harmonize beautifully.
  • A classic taste, now with a sophisticated twist.
  • Sweet brioche bread enhances the richness and adds a buttery depth.
  • Warm spices and fragrant extracts elevate this timeless dish.

If you love french toast, I have a couple recipes that you should try. Loaded Pineapple French Toast Casserole: Challah bread soaked in custard, topped with caramelized pineapple, whipped cream, toffee sauce, cinnamon sugar and gingerbread cookies. Its so good. And then there’s my Christmas morning go-to, Easy Brioche French Toast Casserole. Its this recipe in overnight french toast fashion.

Georgie B Signature

Visual Process for Making French Toast

Make The Custard

Whisk together eggs, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract (adds nutty flavor),  cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom (adds a citrusy note that is highly recommended).

Ingredients in French Toast Custard
Soak Brioche Bread

You can use whatever bread you want as long as it can hold up to the soaking, but I LOVE brioche. Soak for at least 30 seconds a side.

French Toast Soaking in Custard
Fry French Toast

Fry the custard soaked bread 3-4 minutes per side.

French Toast Frying in Pan
Serve!

My favorite toppings are blueberries, strawberries, a dusting of powdered sugar and warm maple syrup.

Overhead Shot of Slices of French Toast on a Blue Plate with Fruit

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Overhead Shot of Slices of French Toast on a Blue Plate with Fruit

Classic French Toast

French toast combines rich custard-soaked bread with warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom, creating a comforting and flavorful treat.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 226 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices thick-cut brioche bread
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon cardamom
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
  • Powdered sugar and maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, ½ cup whole milk, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon almond extract, 1 tbsp ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg and ½ teaspoon cardamom until smooth.
  • Place the brioche slices into the custard mixture, ensuring each slice is fully submerged. Allow to soak for about 30 seconds on each side so the bread absorbs the flavors.
    French Toast Soaking in Custard
  • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 2 tbsp unsalted butter. Once bubbling, add the soaked brioche slices to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
    French Toast Frying in Pan
  • Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. For extra flair, garnish with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.
    Overhead Shot of Slices of French Toast on a Blue Plate with Fruit
Substitutions
Brioche, challah, and sourdough are some of the best breads for French toast due to their texture and ability to absorb the custard without falling apart.
Nutrition
Calories: 226kcalCarbohydrates: 23gProtein: 8gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 141mgSodium: 192mgPotassium: 147mgFiber: 2gSugar: 9gVitamin A: 409IUVitamin C: 0.2mgCalcium: 114mgIron: 2mg
french toast
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Frequently Asked Questions

French toast becomes soggy if the bread is too thin or if it’s over-soaked in the custard. Using thick-cut bread and controlling the soaking time can help. I personally like using Texas toast style bread, challah or brioche.

Popular toppings include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruits, whipped cream, and nut butter. For a unique twist, try caramelized bananas or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

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