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A stack of perfectly golden cinnamon french toast on a white plate, with maple syrup being drizzled over a melting pat of butter.

Cinnamon French Toast Recipe (Perfectly Crispy & Custardy)

This easy cinnamon French toast recipe delivers perfectly custardy centers and a crisp, golden-brown cinnamon-sugar crust. A foolproof guide to the ultimate weekend breakfast or brunch.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 385
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast
  • 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread About 3/4 to 1-inch thick, preferably a day old.
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream Can substitute with more whole milk.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Divided
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar Divided
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For cooking
For Serving (Optional)
  • Maple syrup
  • Powdered sugar
  • Fresh berries

Equipment

  • 1 Large shallow dish Like a pie plate, for dipping the bread.
  • 1 Large non-stick skillet or griddle
  • 1 Whisk

Method
 

  1. In a large shallow dish (like a pie plate), whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla, 1 teaspoon of the ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of the granulated sugar, and salt until well combined and smooth.
  2. In a small, separate bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Set aside.
  3. Working one slice at a time, briefly dip the bread into the egg custard, allowing it to soak for about 15-20 seconds per side. The bread should be fully saturated but not falling apart. Let any excess drip off.
  4. Immediately after dipping, lightly sprinkle one side of the wet bread with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  5. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick skillet or on a griddle over medium-low heat. Place the bread slices in the skillet, cinnamon-sugar side down. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and the center is cooked through. Sprinkle the top side with more cinnamon-sugar before flipping.
  6. Repeat with the remaining bread, adding more butter to the pan as needed. Serve immediately with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries.

Notes

Tip 1: For the best texture, use day-old bread. It's drier and soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
Tip 2: Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches to ensure each slice gets a beautiful, even golden-brown crust.
Tip 3: Keep cooked slices warm on a wire rack in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you finish the rest.