Creamy Custard French Toast
Creamy Custard French Toast is the ultimate indulgent breakfast—thick slices of bread soaked in a rich egg-and-milk custard, then cooked slowly until the outside turns golden and the inside stays soft, creamy, and almost pudding-like. This is the old-school café-style French toast, not dry or eggy, but luxuriously tender with warm vanilla and cinnamon in every bite. Perfect for weekend brunch, special mornings, or when you want a comforting, satisfying start to the day.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Soaking Time: 10–15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Custard
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (or ¾ cup milk + ¼ cup heavy cream for extra richness)
¼ cup heavy cream (optional but recommended for creamy center)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp nutmeg (optional)
Pinch of salt
For the French Toast
6–8 thick slices brioche, challah, or Texas toast
2–3 tbsp butter (for cooking)
For Serving (Optional)
Maple syrup
Powdered sugar
Fresh berries
Whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Custard
In a wide bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well combined. The mixture should look creamy, not foamy.
Soak the Bread
Place bread slices into the custard and let soak for 5–7 minutes per side. Thick bread needs time to absorb the custard for that creamy center—don’t rush this step.
Heat the Pan
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add butter and let it melt gently without browning.
Cook Slowly
Place soaked bread onto the pan and cook 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown. Lower heat if needed so the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
Rest Briefly
Transfer cooked French toast to a plate and rest for 1–2 minutes. This allows the custard center to fully set.
Serving Suggestions
Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with warm maple syrup
Top with fresh strawberries or blueberries
Add whipped cream for a dessert-style finish
Serve with crispy bacon or sausage for balance
Tips for Perfect Creamy Custard French Toast
Use day-old bread—it absorbs better without falling apart
Cook on medium-low heat for a creamy interior
Don’t overcrowd the pan
Add a splash of cream if the custard feels too thick
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Custard French Toast is soft, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth—everything classic French toast should be. It’s simple enough for everyday comfort but elegant enough for a special brunch. One bite and it feels like a cozy café breakfast made right at home.