Brioche French Toast is an indulgent twist on the classic breakfast favorite. With its buttery soft texture, custardy interior, and perfectly crisp edges, this dish turns simple ingredients into a luxurious morning treat. Whether you’re making it for a lazy weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, brioche French toast is guaranteed to impress.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich and Buttery Flavor: Brioche brings an unmatched richness and sweetness to the dish.
Perfectly Custardy Center: The egg mixture soaks beautifully into the bread, creating a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Versatile Toppings: From fresh fruits and syrup to whipped cream and nuts, you can customize it endlessly.
Easy to Prepare: Simple pantry staples and easy steps make this a go-to breakfast option.
Ingredients List
To make this recipe, you’ll need:
1 loaf brioche bread, sliced ¾-inch thick
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for the skillet)
Optional Toppings:
Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Whipped cream
Toasted nuts
Chocolate chips
Timing & Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Instructions for Brioche French Toast
Step 1: Slice the Brioche
Use a serrated knife to slice the brioche loaf into even slices, about ¾-inch thick. Let the slices sit out for 30 minutes or lightly toast them to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Place the brioche slices into the custard mixture, allowing them to soak for about 20–30 seconds per side. Do not oversoak, or the bread may fall apart.
Step 4: Heat the Skillet
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a bit of butter and let it melt, coating the surface evenly.
Step 5: Cook the French Toast
Place the soaked brioche slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crisp.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Serve the brioche French toast hot with your choice of toppings like maple syrup, berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
What is Brioche Bread?
Brioche is a type of French bread that’s enriched with eggs and butter, giving it a soft, tender crumb and a subtly sweet flavor. It’s ideal for French toast because it soaks up the custard mixture beautifully without becoming mushy or falling apart.
Tips for Best Results
Choose Day-Old Brioche
Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better than freshly baked slices, ensuring a custardy center without sogginess.
Don’t Oversoak
Just a quick dip is enough. Too much soaking and the bread can fall apart when transferred to the skillet.
Use a Nonstick Pan or Griddle
It ensures even cooking and prevents sticking, especially when working with sugar in the custard.
Serve Immediately
French toast is best served hot off the skillet for the ultimate texture and taste.
Topping Ideas
Classic
Butter and maple syrup
Fruity
Fresh berries, banana slices, or caramelized apples
Nutty
Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almond slivers
Indulgent
Whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or Nutella drizzle
Variations You Can Try
Stuffed Brioche French Toast
Add a layer of cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves between two slices for a stuffed version.
Dairy-Free Option
Use almond milk or oat milk and substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream.
Savory Twist
Omit sugar and cinnamon, and instead use herbs and shredded cheese for a savory version.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or heat in a toaster oven or skillet until warmed through.
Make-Ahead Instructions
If you’re preparing this for a crowd or holiday brunch, you can soak the brioche slices in the custard mixture the night before and refrigerate. The next morning, simply cook them fresh for an easy and stress-free breakfast.
What to Serve with Brioche French Toast
Pair your brioche French toast with:
Scrambled eggs or omelet
Crisp bacon or breakfast sausage
Fresh fruit platter
Coffee, tea, or freshly squeezed juice
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread?
Yes. Challah or Texas toast are good alternatives, but brioche provides the richest flavor and texture.
Is it okay to use milk instead of cream?
Yes. Whole milk alone works fine, but using part cream adds extra richness.
Can I bake French toast instead of frying it?
You can. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes per side.
How do I make it extra crispy?
Use clarified butter or a mixture of butter and oil for frying, and let it cook undisturbed until golden.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: 340
Protein: 9g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Note: Nutrition may vary based on toppings and exact ingredient choices.
Conclusion
Brioche French Toast is more than just a breakfast recipe—it’s an experience. The buttery bread, the velvety custard, the crispy golden crust, and your favorite toppings all come together in a dish that feels decadent yet approachable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe turns any morning into something memorable.