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The Absolute BEST French Toast Recipe: Crispy Edges and Custardy Center

A close-up stack of thick, golden brown french toast dusted generously with powdered sugar.
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Discover the secrets to making the best French toast, achieving that perfect balance of a golden, crispy exterior and a rich, soft, custardy center every time. This classic French toast recipe uses simple ingredients and proven techniques for an indulgent breakfast.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices thick-cut bread (Brioche or Challah recommended)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare your bread: If your bread is not slightly stale, lightly toast the slices for about 5 minutes to help them absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
  2. Create the custard batter: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar until completely combined. This mixture creates the creamy French toast center.
  3. Soak the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 20 to 30 seconds per side. You want the bread saturated but not falling apart.
  4. Heat the cooking surface: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add half of the butter and let it melt until it foams slightly.
  5. Cook the French toast: Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the edges are golden brown and slightly crisp.
  6. Achieve the perfect finish: Reduce the heat slightly if the exterior browns too quickly before the inside cooks. For extra caramelized edges, you can briefly increase the heat at the very end.
  7. Serve immediately: Transfer the cooked French toast to plates. Serve warm with your preferred toppings like maple syrup and fresh berries.

Notes

  • Using thick-cut bread like Brioche or Challah is the key to a custardy French toast center. Thin bread will become soggy.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream in the batter.
  • If you are making a large batch, keep cooked French toast warm on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while you finish the rest.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/best-french-toast-crispy-edges-custardy-center/