Brioche French Toast Recipe

Brioche bread: A rich, buttery bread that adds a luxurious texture and flavor to the French toast.

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

Milk: Helps to create a smooth and creamy custard mixture.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the custard.

Ground cinnamon: Provides a warm and spicy note that complements the sweetness of the dish.

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

When preparing brioche bread for French toast, ensure that the bread is slightly stale. Fresh bread can become too soggy when dipped in the egg mixture. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out by placing the slices in a low oven (around 200°F) for about 10 minutes. This will help the bread absorb the custard mixture without falling apart, resulting in a perfectly textured French toast.

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

• brioche bread - Substitute with Texas toast: Thick slices absorb the egg mixture well and provide a similar fluffy texture.

• 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.

• eggs - Substitute with silken tofu: Blend ¼ cup of silken tofu per egg. It provides a similar texture and is a good vegan option.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: A non-dairy alternative that works well for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Adds a rich, creamy texture and a slight coconut flavor, which can be a nice twist.

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

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Adds sweetness and a hint of maple flavor, which pairs well with French toast.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Contains cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Provides a warm, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: A dairy-free alternative that adds a slight coconut flavor and works well for frying.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: A non-dairy option that provides a similar texture and flavor for cooking.

• Allow the brioche French toast to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents condensation and sogginess.
• Once cooled, place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step ensures that the slices freeze individually and don't stick together.
• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the French toast freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until the slices are firm.
• After the slices are frozen, remove them from the baking sheet and place them in a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container. Be sure to label the bag or container with the date.
• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the slices in a toaster or toaster oven until warm and crispy.
• For a quicker option, microwave the frozen slices on high for about 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method may result in a softer texture compared to baking or toasting.
• Store any leftover French toast in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or oven for the best texture.
• If you prefer to store the French toast in the refrigerator instead of freezing, place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.

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

• Toaster Oven Method: Set your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast slices directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don't burn. This method is quick and keeps the toast crispy.

• 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 seconds to 1 minute, checking for warmth. This method is the fastest but may result in a softer texture.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet. Place the French toast slices in the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until heated through. This method helps to restore some of the original crispiness.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives a nice, crispy texture similar to freshly made French toast.

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

• Whisk: A utensil used to blend the egg mixture until smooth and well combined.

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

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

• Measuring cups: Tools used to measure the milk accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon accurately.

• Butter knife: A knife used to spread the butter onto the skillet.

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

• Serving utensils: Tools like forks and knives used to enjoy the French toast.

Prepare the egg mixture ahead: Mix the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon the night before and store in the fridge.

Pre-slice the bread: Slice the brioche bread in advance and keep it in an airtight container.

Use a large skillet: Cook multiple slices at once to save time.

Mise en place: Have all ingredients and utensils ready before you start cooking.

Quick toppings: Use ready-to-eat toppings like syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for faster serving.