Name: Brioche French Toast
Prep time: PT-486891H47M27S
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 slices brioche bread (preferably day-old); 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; Butter or oil for frying; Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how the brioche transforms into a soft, custard-like center with crisp, golden edges. It’s a step up from basic French toast, thanks to the buttery richness of the bread and the creaminess of the custard. It’s also endlessly customizable — I can top it with whatever I have on hand, from fresh berries to a dusting of powdered sugar. And best of all, it’s quick and easy enough to make on a sleepy morning.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 slices brioche bread (preferably day-old)
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
Butter or oil for frying
Optional toppings: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream

directions

I start by whisking together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a large mixing bowl until the custard is smooth and well combined.
I heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter or oil.
Then I dip each slice of brioche into the custard, soaking each side for 10 to 15 seconds so it absorbs just the right amount without getting soggy.
I let any excess drip off before placing the slice onto the hot skillet.
I cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, adjusting the heat if needed to avoid burning.
I repeat the process with the remaining slices, adding more butter as needed between batches.
Finally, I serve the French toast warm and top it with whatever I’m craving — a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a handful of berries.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 3 generous servings and takes about 25 minutes total — 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. It’s perfect for a relaxed breakfast or an elegant brunch that doesn’t take much effort.

Variations

Sometimes I add a bit of orange zest or almond extract to the custard for a twist on flavor.
If I don’t have brioche, I use challah or Texas toast as a solid substitute.
For a dessert-style version, I stuff the brioche slices with cream cheese or Nutella before dipping them.
I turn this into a baked French toast casserole by layering the slices in a dish and baking the custard over them.

storage/reheating

If I have leftovers, I let them cool and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them in the toaster oven or skillet for a few minutes — this brings back that crisp exterior without drying them out. I avoid the microwave when I want to keep the texture just right.

FAQs

Can I use fresh brioche instead of day-old?

I can, but I prefer day-old because it soaks up the custard better without falling apart. If I only have fresh, I toast it lightly first.

What’s the best way to keep French toast warm while I cook batches?

I place the cooked slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while I finish the rest. It keeps everything warm without drying it out.

Can I make the custard ahead of time?

Yes, I often mix the custard the night before and keep it in the fridge. I give it a quick stir before using it in the morning.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Absolutely. I use almond milk or oat milk and swap the cream with coconut cream. I also fry in dairy-free butter or neutral oil.

What toppings go best with brioche French toast?

I like classic maple syrup, but fresh berries, whipped cream, cinnamon sugar, or even caramelized bananas are all amazing choices.

Conclusion

Brioche French Toast is one of those timeless recipes that I can always count on to bring a little comfort and joy to my morning. With its rich custard flavor and buttery crisp texture, it’s simple to make but feels like a special treat. Whether it’s a lazy weekend breakfast or a beautiful brunch spread, this is a dish I always come back to.

Brioche French Toast