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This hearty French toast recipe has been my breakfast joy for years, transforming ordinary weekend mornings into special occasions with minimal effort. The combination of custardy bread with crisp edges creates the perfect bite every time, while the hint of orange zest elevates it beyond the basic versions you might have tried before.
I first made this French toast during a lazy Sunday when I wanted to impress overnight guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The looks on their faces when they took their first bites convinced me this would become my signature breakfast dish.
Ingredients
- Challah or brioche bread: These enriched breads with their pillow soft texture absorb the custard beautifully without falling apart
- Whole eggs and extra yolks: The additional yolks create a richer custard that coats the bread perfectly
- Whole milk: Provides the perfect balance of richness without being too heavy like cream
- Orange zest: Adds a subtle brightness that wakes up all the flavors
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the custard mixture
- Brown sugar: Offers caramel notes and helps create that golden crust
- Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
- Butter and oil combination: The oil prevents the butter from burning while still providing that irreplaceable butter flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the bread:
- Place sliced bread in a 250°F oven for about 15 minutes to slightly dry the surfaces which helps them absorb more custard without becoming soggy
- Create the custard:
- Whisk together eggs, egg yolks, milk, orange zest, vanilla, brown sugar, and salt until completely combined with no streaks of egg visible
- Soak the bread:
- Immerse bread slices in the custard mixture for 4 to 5 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even absorption without oversaturating
- Cook to perfection:
- Heat a combination of butter and oil in a large skillet over medium heat then cook soaked bread for 2 to 3 minutes per side until deeply golden brown with crisp edges
- Keep warm:
- Transfer cooked slices to a sheet pan in the warm oven while finishing the remaining batches so everyone can enjoy hot French toast together
- Serve:
- Present on warmed plates with maple syrup, fresh seasonal fruits, and a small pat of butter melting on top
The orange zest is my secret weapon in this recipe. Most people can't quite identify what makes this French toast special, but that subtle citrus note brightens everything without overpowering. My daughter now requests "sunshine toast" whenever we have special breakfast gatherings.
Make-Ahead Options
This French toast can be partially prepared the night before for busy mornings. Mix the custard and refrigerate overnight. You can even slice and dry out the bread in advance. In the morning, just soak and cook. For bigger batches, you can make the entire recipe ahead and reheat. Place cooled French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Perfect Pairings
While maple syrup is the classic topping, consider creating a toppings bar for guests with options like fresh berries, sliced bananas, whipped cream, chopped nuts, or warm fruit compotes. For a decadent twist, try adding a spread of mascarpone cheese topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon before adding syrup. Balance the sweetness with savory sides like crisp bacon or breakfast sausage to create a complete brunch experience.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The most common French toast problem is sogginess. If your slices are coming out soggy in the middle, your bread might be too fresh or cut too thick. Try drying it longer in the oven before soaking. Another issue can be burning before the center cooks through. In this case, lower your heat and cook more slowly. Remember that the temperature of your pan when you start is crucial. Let it heat fully before adding the first batch for that perfect golden exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread is best for French Toast?
Challah or brioche bread are ideal choices as they are soft, slightly sweet, and absorb the egg mixture well.
- → How do I keep French Toast from being soggy?
Drying the bread slightly in the oven before soaking helps achieve the perfect texture without getting soggy.
- → Can I make French Toast ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare batches ahead of serving and keep them warm in a low oven at 250°F.
- → What toppings go well with French Toast?
Maple syrup, fresh fruit, powdered sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon are popular choices for enhancing the flavors.
- → Do I need to use butter and oil for frying?
Using both provides optimal browning and prevents the butter from burning during cooking.