Here’s a rich and creamy custard French toast recipe that’s perfect for a luxurious breakfast or brunch. This recipe uses a custard-style batter to soak thick slices of bread, resulting in a crispy outside and a soft, creamy inside.
🥞 Creamy Custard French Toast Recipe (Serves 4)
✅ Ingredients:
For the Custard Batter:
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4 large eggs
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1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
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1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
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2 tbsp granulated sugar
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
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Pinch of salt
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Zest of 1/2 an orange or lemon (optional, for brightness)
For the Toast:
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6–8 slices of thick bread (Brioche, Challah, or Texas Toast are ideal – about 3/4″ to 1″ thick)
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Butter or neutral oil, for the pan
For Serving:
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Maple syrup
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Powdered sugar
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Fresh berries or fruit
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Whipped cream (optional)
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread
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If using fresh bread, let it sit out uncovered for a few hours or lightly toast it to dry it out slightly. Slightly stale bread soaks up custard better without falling apart.
2. Make the Custard Batter
In a medium bowl or shallow dish (wide enough for dipping the bread), whisk together:
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Eggs
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Milk
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Heavy cream (if using)
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Sugar
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Vanilla extract
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Cinnamon
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Salt
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Citrus zest (optional)
Whisk until completely smooth and well combined.
3. Soak the Bread
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Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture.
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Let each side soak for 20–30 seconds (or longer if the bread is very thick or dry).
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Make sure the bread is fully coated but not falling apart.
4. Cook the French Toast
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Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat.
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Add a little butter or oil.
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Cook the soaked bread slices for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
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Lower the heat if browning too quickly — the goal is to let the custard cook slowly so the inside sets without burning the outside.
💡 Optional: Finish the French toast in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–10 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked inside, especially with thick slices.
5. Serve Immediately
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Plate the French toast warm.
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Dust with powdered sugar.
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Top with maple syrup, berries, and whipped cream if desired.
🧑🍳 Tips for Perfect Custard French Toast
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Bread choice is key: Brioche and challah are soft, eggy breads that pair beautifully with custard.
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Don’t rush the soak: Letting the bread absorb the custard fully gives it a creamy center.
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Low and slow cooking: Keeps the exterior crisp without undercooking the middle.
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Want a deeper flavor? Add a splash of dark rum or bourbon and a pinch of nutmeg to the custard.