Classic French Toast 

This classic French Toast recipe delivers perfectly golden, custard-soaked slices with a crisp exterior and a tender, fluffy interior. Ideal for a leisurely weekend breakfast or brunch, it’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The key to success lies in using slightly stale, thick-cut bread and a rich egg mixture that includes extra yolks for added richness. Finishing the toasts in the oven ensures they stay warm and the custard sets beautifully. Top with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar for a delightful treat.

Ingredients

For the French Toast:

• 6 large eggs
  
  

• 2 large egg yolks
  
  

• 1 cup whole milk (or any milk of choice)
  
  

• 1/4 teaspoon salt
  
  

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  
  

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
  

• 1 tablespoon warm honey (or granulated sugar)
  
  

• 1 lb thick-sliced bread (e.g., Challah, Brioche, Texas Toast)
  
  

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, for sautéing
  
  

Directions

1. Prepare the Bread: Slice the bread into 3/4-inch thick slices. If time permits, arrange the slices on a wire rack for 1–2 hours to dry out slightly, which helps them absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
   
   

2. Make the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, milk, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and warm honey until well blended. Pour the mixture into a casserole dish that fits your bread slices.
   
   

3. Preheat the Skillet: Set a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-low heat and melt in 2 tablespoons of butter.
   
   

4. Soak the Bread: Dip 4 pieces of bread into the egg mixture at a time, soaking each side for 30–40 seconds, depending on the thickness of the bread. Allow any excess to drip back into the dish.
   
   

5. Sauté the Toast: Place the soaked bread slices into the hot skillet and sauté for 3–4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Transfer the cooked slices to a baking sheet and place them in the preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) to keep warm while you cook the remaining slices.
   
   

6. Finish in the Oven: Once all slices are sautéed, bake them in the oven for an additional 10–15 minutes to set the custard center and ensure they are cooked through.

7. Serve: Serve the French Toast warm with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
   
   

Nutrition (per slice)

• Calories: Approximately 220 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 30 g
  
  

• Protein: 7 g
  
  

• Fat: 9 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 3 g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 70 mg
  
  

• Sodium: 180 mg
  
  

• Potassium: 150 mg
  
  

• Fiber: 1 g
  
  

• Sugar: 7 g