Description
Make classic cinnamon French toast with eggs, milk, sugar, and warm spice. This recipe yields golden slices with crispy edges and a tender, custardy center, perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch fine salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 slices thick bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast, slightly stale)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries for serving
Instructions
- Preheat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter to melt.
- In a shallow dish, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and the cinnamon is evenly dispersed.
- Dip one slice of bread into the custard for 10–20 seconds per side for fresh bread or 30–40 seconds per side if slightly stale, until the slice is saturated but not falling apart.
- Lift and let excess custard drip off, then place on the hot, buttered pan. Repeat to fill the pan without crowding.
- Cook 2–3 minutes until the bottom is deep golden and edges look set; the surface will look slightly dry and steam will rise.
- Flip and cook 1–2 minutes until the second side is golden and the center feels springy when pressed.
- Transfer to a warm plate. Add more butter to the pan as needed and repeat with remaining slices.
- Serve immediately with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and berries.
Notes
- Use day-old thick bread to prevent sogginess and get a custardy center.
- Whisk vigorously so cinnamon doesn’t float; a smooth custard coats evenly.
- Adjust heat as needed; medium to medium-low prevents scorching before the center sets.
- Keep finished slices warm in a 200°F oven on a wire rack so they stay crisp.
- For dairy-free: use almond, oat, or soy milk and cook with plant butter or neutral oil.
- Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster or 350°F oven.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Pan Fry
- Cuisine: American