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Crispy Brioche French Toast Thick Cut Recipe Easy Perfect Breakfast

crispy brioche french toast - featured image

This recipe delivers crispy edges and a soft, custardy center using thick-cut brioche and a special custard batter with cornstarch for extra crispiness. Perfect for a quick, comforting breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 thick slices brioche bread (¾ to 1 inch thick)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (can substitute almond or oat milk)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter for frying
  • Optional toppings: maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, whipped cream

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk 4 large eggs until smooth.
  2. Add 1 cup whole milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until fully combined and slightly frothy (about 3 minutes).
  3. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and let it melt, coating the surface evenly.
  4. Dip each thick-cut brioche slice into the custard mixture, soaking about 15 seconds per side, allowing the bread to absorb custard without becoming soggy.
  5. Place dipped slice onto the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and aromatic.
  6. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
  7. Adjust heat as needed to ensure a crisp crust and soft center.
  8. Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter as needed (total about 3 tablespoons).
  9. Place cooked slices on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to avoid sogginess.
  10. Serve warm with optional toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.

Notes

Let brioche bread sit out or use day-old bread for better custard absorption without sogginess. Cook at medium heat to avoid burning crust before center cooks. Flip only once to keep crust intact. Cornstarch in batter helps create a crispy shell. Reheat leftovers in toaster oven or broiler to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast, brioche, breakfast, brunch, crispy, easy recipe, custard, cinnamon, vanilla