Classic French Toast

Golden, custardy French toast with crisp edges and soft centers, finished with butter and warm maple syrup.

Prep: 10 min · Cook: 15 min · Yield: 4 · Method: Stovetop

Ingredients

• 8 slices thick-cut brioche or white bread
• 4 large eggs
• 0.75 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 0.5 cup maple syrup

Cooking instructions

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. (about 3 min)
2. Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the butter and let it melt without browning. (about 2 min) — Medium heat
3. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture for about 5 seconds per side, turning once. Let excess custard drip back into the bowl. (about 3 min)
4. Cook the soaked bread in batches, without crowding the pan, for 2 to 3 minutes per side, adding more butter as needed. The toast should be deeply golden outside and the center should be hot and set, with no wet egg mixture visible. (about 15 min) — Medium heat
5. Serve immediately with maple syrup and additional butter if desired. If checking with a thermometer, the center should reach at least 160°F. (about 2 min)