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The Ultimate Fluffy & Crispy Classic French Toast Guide

Close-up of two thick slices of golden brown french toast stacked on a white plate, drizzled with syrup.
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Follow this guide to make the best classic French toast with crispy edges and a custardy center using simple techniques.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 thick slices day-old bread (Challah or Brioche recommended)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
  2. Soak the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture. Allow it to soak for about 30 seconds per side, ensuring the bread absorbs the liquid without becoming fully saturated and falling apart. Use slightly stale bread for the best texture.
  3. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add half of the butter and let it melt until it foams slightly. Cooking low and slow helps achieve a custardy interior.
  4. Cook the toast: Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until the French toast is golden brown and crisp on the exterior.
  5. Keep warm: Transfer cooked slices to a wire rack set over a baking sheet and keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F) while you cook the remaining slices, adding more butter to the pan as needed.
  6. Serve immediately with your preferred toppings.

Notes

  • Using day-old or slightly stale bread prevents the bread from breaking apart when soaking in the custard.
  • For extra richness, substitute some of the milk with half-and-half or use only heavy cream in the custard base.
  • If you want a caramelized top, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar over the surface during the last minute of cooking on each side.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingzenith.com/best-classic-french-toast-recipe-tips/