7 Secrets to the Best French Toast Recipe

If you're craving golden, custardy French toast that's crispy on the outside and tender in the center, you're in the right place. In this recipe, I’m sharing the 7 secrets that make French toast truly unforgettable — and perfect for serving a hungry table of six. Whether it’s a cozy weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, this dish brings everyone to the table with smiles.

Growing up, French toast was a Saturday morning ritual in our kitchen. My mom would dip thick slices of challah into a creamy egg mixture spiced with cinnamon and vanilla. The scent would float through the house, drawing us to the kitchen in our pajamas. That memory still inspires how I make this classic dish today — but with a few modern tweaks to elevate flavor and texture.

French toast might seem simple, but small details make a big difference. From choosing the right bread to adjusting heat at just the right moment, these are the little things that transform your average French toast into something extraordinary. Below, I’ll walk you through the full recipe — plus my personal tips, helpful swaps, and a delicious idea for what to try next.

And if you're already thinking ahead to weekend brunch plans, be sure to bookmark our Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole — it's a great make-ahead version that lets you sleep in.

Why This French Toast Works

This French toast recipe balances rich flavor with a light, fluffy interior. The mixture of whole eggs, milk, and a touch of cream gives it just the right amount of indulgence, while cinnamon and vanilla provide a warm, inviting depth. Using day-old bread ensures each slice soaks up the custard without falling apart, and cooking in butter adds that irresistible golden edge.

It’s also a great base recipe to customize — top it with fresh fruit, swap in dairy-free milk, or turn it into a decadent dessert with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and whipped cream. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and hard to mess up.

Let’s dive in — your best-ever French toast awaits.

Equipment Needed:

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Large skillet or griddle
• Spatula
• Measuring cups & spoons

French Toast Recipe

Servings: 6

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cookie time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 12 slices day-old brioche or challah
• Butter for cooking
• Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries

Instructions

1. Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
2. Preheat the pan: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter and swirl to coat the surface.
3. Dip the bread: One at a time, dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture for about 5–10 seconds per side. Let the excess drip off.
4. Cook the toast: Place soaked slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. Add more butter between batches as needed.
5. Serve warm: Stack and serve immediately with your favorite toppings — we love fresh strawberries, blueberries, a dusting of powdered sugar, and warm maple syrup.

Tips & Substitutions

• Bread Matters: Use day-old brioche or challah for the best texture. Stale bread holds the custard better without becoming soggy.
• Dairy-Free: Swap milk and cream for almond milk or oat milk. Use vegan butter or coconut oil for the pan.
• Flavor Boost: Add a touch of orange zest or a splash of bourbon for extra dimension.
• Feeding a Crowd: Keep cooked slices warm in a 250°F oven while you finish the batch.

Notes

• Let the cooked slices sit for a minute before serving — they’ll firm up slightly, making for a better bite.
• If you love texture, consider lightly toasting your bread before dipping it in the custard.
• Want to get a little fancy? A spoonful of mascarpone or a side of caramelized bananas turns this into a brunch showstopper.

Storage & Meal Planning

• Storage: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked and cooled slices between parchment paper layers for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet over low heat to preserve crispiness.
• Meal Prep Tip: Make the custard the night before and keep it chilled. Dip and cook in the morning for faster prep.

There’s something magical about gathering around the table with a warm plate of homemade French toast. It’s comforting, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. I hope these tips help you master the art of French toast and bring joy to your breakfast table.

Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out. And don’t forget to explore our Easy Overnight French Toast Casserole if you're planning brunch for a crowd!