Dessert

Custard French Toast (Challah or Brioche) Recipe

ByElena Hart December 19, 2025December 19, 2025

Introduction

Custard French Toast made with challah or brioche offers a rich, tender, and custardy breakfast treat that’s easy to prepare. This recipe uses a smooth custard soak that creates beautifully golden slices perfect for a weekend brunch or special occasion.

Two slices of golden-brown French toast are placed side by side on a white plate sitting on a white marbled surface. Each slice has a small square pat of pale yellow butter on top, beginning to melt slightly from the heat. A light drizzle of amber-colored syrup glistens over the toast and pools gently around them on the plate, adding shine and warmth to the texture. The toast shows a crispy, unevenly browned crust with a soft, fluffy interior visible at the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 large eggs
3 large egg yolks

3 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 cups whole milk

1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

8 slices challah or brioche, 1-inch thick (about 1 large loaf)
6 tablespoons butter
Maple syrup, for serving

Additional butter, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt until completely combined with no streaks. For extra smoothness, you can blend the mixture with a stand or immersion blender. Transfer the custard to a wide, shallow bowl or baking dish.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 to 3 tablespoons of butter, coating the pan evenly. Working in batches, dip two slices of bread into the custard, soaking each side for 15-20 seconds. Shake off any excess custard gently and place them in the hot skillet.

Step 3: Cook the bread slices until golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer finished slices to plates.
Step 4: Serve the French toast warm topped with maple syrup and a pat of butter. If needed, keep cooked slices warm by placing them in a 200°F oven while you finish cooking the rest.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old challah or brioche for better custard absorption and less sogginess.

For extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon or nutmeg into the custard mixture.
Try topping with fresh berries, whipped cream, or powdered sugar for variety.
If you prefer a dairy-free version, swap whole milk for almond or oat milk with the same soaking method.

Storage

Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to retain crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.

How to Serve

Two slices of golden brown toasted bread with a crispy, slightly uneven texture and a few darker char spots are placed side by side on a silver wire rack. The rack sits on a slightly worn silver baking sheet with some marks and discoloration. The whole setup is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread besides challah or brioche?

Yes, thick slices of white sandwich bread or sourdough can work, but challah and brioche provide the best texture and richness for custard French toast.

How long can I soak the bread in the custard?

Soak the bread just long enough to absorb the custard, about 15-20 seconds per side. Soaking longer can cause the bread to become too soggy and fall apart during cooking.