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Crispy Classic French Toast Recipe with Easy Cinnamon Sugar Topping

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A crispy, cinnamon-kissed French toast recipe that combines a crunchy exterior with a soft, custardy center, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 thick slices of day-old brioche or challah bread
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or half-and-half (almond or oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (divided; part for custard, part for topping)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Cinnamon sugar topping: 2 tablespoons granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt until smooth and slightly frothy (about 2-3 minutes).
  2. Preheat a 10-inch non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and let it melt, swirling to coat the pan evenly. The butter should foam but not brown (about 2 minutes).
  3. Lightly sprinkle both sides of each bread slice with a little cinnamon sugar from the topping mix.
  4. Dip each bread slice into the custard mixture for about 20 seconds per side, soaking but not oversoaking.
  5. Place the soaked bread slices in the hot skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3 minutes. Adjust heat as needed.
  6. Transfer cooked toast to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate. While still warm, sprinkle the remaining cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the slices.
  7. Serve immediately with butter, maple syrup, or fresh fruit as desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread for best texture. Do not oversoak the bread to avoid sogginess. Control heat to prevent burning the cinnamon sugar. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar before and after frying for extra crunch. Reheat leftovers in toaster oven or regular oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast, crispy French toast, cinnamon sugar, breakfast, brunch, easy recipe, classic French toast