Sweet Mornings
Classic French Toast
Custardy in the middle, caramelized at the edges. Day-old bread is the move, and a splash of vanilla makes it sing.
Ingredients
- 8 thick slices day-old brioche or challah
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter, for the pan
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar, to serve
Method
- Whisk the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon and salt in a wide, shallow dish.
- Soak each slice 20–30 seconds per side — enough to drink up the custard without falling apart.
- Melt butter in a nonstick pan over medium heat.
- Cook the slices 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden and set in the center.
- Dust with powdered sugar and pour over the maple syrup. Serve right away.
Cook's notes
- Stale bread soaks better. Fresh bread? Dry the slices in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes first.
- Keep the heat at medium — too hot and the outside burns before the custard sets.
- Add a tablespoon of orange zest to the custard for a brighter flavor.
More breakfast ideas
Pancakes & Waffles
Fluffy Buttermilk Pancakes
Tall, cloud-soft pancakes with crisp golden edges. The buttermilk and a rested batter do all the heavy lifting.
Eggs
The Perfect Cheese Omelette
Soft, just-set, and folded around a melty middle. Low heat and constant motion turn three eggs into something French-bistro good.
Make-Ahead
5-Minute Overnight Oats
Stir it tonight, grab it tomorrow. A creamy, no-cook base you can flavor a dozen ways for the whole week.