Ingredients

1 medium loaf of bread (about 16 ounces)

1 ½ cups whole milk

3 egg yolks

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon fine salt

For serving: maple syrup, butter, fresh berries or berry compote, whipped cream or Greek yogurt, powdered sugar

Instructions

Step 1: Cut the bread into ¾-inch thick slices, yielding about 8 large or 12 medium slices. If the bread is fresh and soft, preheat the oven to 300°F. Place the slices on a rimmed baking sheet with a cooling rack and bake for 8 minutes. Flip and bake another 4 to 8 minutes until the bread feels dry but not crispy. Let cool.

Step 2: Warm the milk gently until just warmer than room temperature. This prevents the melted butter from clumping later. Set aside.

Step 3: Separate the yolks from three eggs and whisk in a medium bowl. Add the warmed milk, melted butter, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until combined. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 4: Preheat an electric skillet to 350°F if using. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, soaking one side until about ¼-inch deep, then flip to soak the other side similarly. Place the soaked slices on a baking sheet.

Step 5: Whisk the egg mixture again to redistribute the cinnamon and repeat soaking with any remaining slices in batches.

Step 6: If not using an electric skillet, heat a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat until a drop of water sizzles. No additional butter or oil is needed because the batter contains butter.

Step 7: Cook the soaked bread slices until golden on the bottom, about 3 to 4 minutes. Flip and cook the other side. Adjust heat if slices brown too quickly before cooking through. Transfer cooked toast to a cooling rack or serving platter. Repeat with remaining slices.

Step 8: Serve the French toast warm with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or powdered sugar. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Using slightly stale bread helps the slices absorb the custard without falling apart. If your bread is very fresh, dry it gently in the oven before soaking.

Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest to the custard for a flavor twist.

For a richer custard, use half-and-half instead of whole milk.

Thicker or denser breads like brioche or challah also work beautifully for an indulgent French toast.

FAQs

Can I use whole eggs instead of just yolks?

Yes, you can use whole eggs, but using only yolks creates a richer, custard-like texture. If using whole eggs, try 2 whole eggs plus 1 extra yolk for balance.

What if I don’t have a cooling rack for baking the bread?

If you don’t have a cooling rack, you can place the bread slices directly on a baking sheet, flipping halfway through. Just watch closely to avoid crisping the bread too much.