There’s something magical about The Perfect Brioche French Toast—its golden, crispy edges give way to a custardy, melt-in-your-mouth center. The rich, buttery brioche soaks up the velvety egg mixture, creating a symphony of textures that’s both indulgent and comforting. With just 20 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, this dish transforms your morning into a luxurious escape.
Every bite is a celebration of flavors, from the subtle sweetness of the bread to the warm notes of vanilla and cinnamon. Topped with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s a breakfast that feels like a hug. Perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions, this French toast is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for The Perfect Brioche French Toast
- 2 ½ cups (20fl oz/565ml) full-fat milk (or substitute with almond milk for a lighter option)
- ½ cup (4fl oz/115ml) heavy cream (or use half-and-half for a less rich version)
- 5 large egg yolks (save the whites for another recipe!)
- ½ cup (4oz/115g) sugar (granulated or brown sugar works)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (use pure vanilla for the best flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated is ideal)
- 10 thick slices of brioche (about 1 inch thick, homemade or store-bought)
- Butter for the skillet (unsalted is preferred)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Place a few slices of brioche in the egg mixture. Let them soak for 2-3 minutes, then gently flip to soak the other side.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Generously butter the skillet to prevent sticking.
- Add the soaked brioche slices to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat the soaking and cooking process with the remaining brioche slices.
- Serve warm with maple syrup, cream, and fresh berries for a delightful finish.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a buttered skillet or in the microwave for 1 minute.
Elevate Your French Toast with These Topping Ideas
Take your brioche French toast to the next level with creative toppings! Drizzle with warm maple syrup or honey, or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of color and freshness. For a decadent twist, sprinkle with powdered sugar or a handful of toasted nuts like almonds or pecans.
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Breakfast
Serve your French toast with a side of crispy bacon or savory sausage for a sweet-and-salty combo. Pair it with a refreshing fruit salad or a smoothie for a lighter option. Don’t forget a hot cup of coffee or tea to round out your meal. For a brunch crowd, set up a topping bar with syrups, fruits, and spreads so everyone can customize their plate.
Quick Tips for Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm slices in a buttered skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side until crispy. Alternatively, microwave for about 30 seconds per slice, though the skillet method will keep the texture perfect. Avoid freezing, as the custard-soaked bread can become soggy when thawed.
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Mornings
Prep the custard mixture the night before and store it in the fridge—just give it a quick whisk before soaking the brioche. Use store-bought brioche to skip the baking step, or slice your homemade brioche in advance. If cooking for a crowd, keep finished slices warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you prepare the rest.
Equipment You’ll Need for Success
A large, nonstick skillet is ideal for even cooking and easy flipping. Use a shallow, wide bowl for soaking the brioche slices to ensure they’re fully coated. A whisk is essential for blending the custard mixture smoothly. If you’re serving a group, a baking sheet in the oven will keep your French toast warm and ready to serve.
The Perfect Brioche French Toast
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups full-fat milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 5 large egg yolks
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 10 slices thick brioche about 1 inch
- butter for the skillet
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk milk, cream, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Place a few slices of my brioche recipe (or store-bought) in the egg mixture. After 2-3 minutes, gently flip the slices in the mixture to soak the other side.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Generously butter the skillet and add your soaked slices of brioche. Cook 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat the soaking and cooking with the remaining slices of brioche.
- Serve warm with maple syrup, cream, and fresh berries.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Rewarm on a buttered skillet on the stove or microwave for a minute.
