Make this classic French toast on the stovetop for a quick breakfast that results in golden, fluffy slices with a soft, custardy center and lightly crisp edges. This simple recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and is ready in under 20 minutes.
Author:sarahmiller
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:20 min
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Breakfast
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 slices thick bread (Brioche or Texas Toast recommended)
4 large eggs
1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter, for the skillet
Instructions
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined to create the egg custard.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add half of the butter and let it melt until it coats the surface.
Dip one slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 15 to 20 seconds per side. You want the bread saturated but not falling apart.
Place the soaked bread onto the hot, buttered skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the cooked French toast from the skillet and keep it warm while you cook the remaining slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
Serve your homemade French toast immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup and powdered sugar.
Notes
For the best texture, use slightly stale or thick-cut bread; this prevents sogginess and helps achieve a custardy center.
If you prefer a sweeter crust, sprinkle a small amount of granulated sugar directly onto the butter in the skillet just before placing the bread down to encourage caramelization.
This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast, but you can easily double or triple the ingredients for a weekend brunch crowd.