Brioche French Toast Recipe

Brioche bread: A rich, buttery bread that is perfect for making French toast.

Eggs: Essential for creating the custard-like mixture that coats the bread.

Milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture, helping to soak the bread thoroughly.

Vanilla extract: Provides a sweet, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Butter: Used for cooking the French toast, giving it a golden, crispy exterior.

To achieve a perfectly golden and crispy French toast, make sure to use day-old brioche bread. This slightly stale bread will absorb the egg mixture more effectively without becoming too soggy. Additionally, let the bread slices sit in the egg mixture for a few seconds to ensure they are fully saturated. When cooking, maintain a consistent medium heat to avoid burning the butter and ensure even browning.

• brioche bread - Substitute with challah bread: Both have a similar texture and slightly sweet flavor, making them ideal for French toast.

• brioche bread - Substitute with Texas toast: This thick-cut bread can absorb the egg mixture well and has a neutral flavor that works well for French toast.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• large eggs - Substitute with mashed bananas: Use ¼ cup of mashed bananas per egg. This adds a slight banana flavor and works well as a binder.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: This is a dairy-free alternative that still provides a creamy texture.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: This adds a slight coconut flavor and is a good dairy-free option.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: This provides a different but complementary flavor profile.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Adds sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: This is a good dairy-free option that adds a slight coconut flavor.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: This is a non-dairy alternative that provides a similar texture and flavor for cooking.

• Allow the brioche French toast to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation from making the toast soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the cooled slices in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, arrange the cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the slices to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a toaster or toaster oven until warm and crispy.
• For a quick microwave option, place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking for desired warmth.
• Serve reheated brioche French toast with your favorite toppings like fresh berries, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brioche French toast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the toast's crispy exterior and soft interior.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the French toast slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This method keeps the toast crispy and adds a fresh buttery flavor.

• Microwave Method: Place the French toast slices on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway through. This method is quick but may result in a softer texture.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast slices directly on the rack or on a baking sheet. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is great for maintaining a crispy texture.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy. This method is quick and ensures a delightful crunch.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.

• Whisk: A utensil used to blend the egg mixture smoothly.

• Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used to cook the brioche slices.

• Spatula: A tool used to flip the bread slices to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.

• Measuring cup: A cup used to measure the milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Spoons used to measure the vanilla extract and butter accurately.

• Plate: A dish to serve the cooked French toast.

• Knife: A tool to spread butter on the skillet if needed.

Prepare the egg mixture in advance: Whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract the night before and store in the fridge.

Use a large skillet: Cooking multiple brioche bread slices at once will save you time.

Preheat the skillet: Ensure the butter melts quickly and the skillet is ready for cooking.

Use a shallow dish: Dipping the bread in a shallow dish allows for quicker coating.

Serve with prepped toppings: Have your favorite toppings like syrup, fruit, or whipped cream ready to go.