I had originally planned to post this recipe at Christmas, but let’s be honest, a great French toast recipe is timeless, so here we are.

Growing up, making French toast wasn’t really a tradition in my home, but every chance I had to try it, I absolutely loved it and knew I wanted to make it a tradition in my own family.

That’s the beauty of life, isn’t it? We have the power to change things up, to create and recreate the life we want. Sometimes, all it takes is a little desire (though, I know, it’s not always that simple).

What you need to make your french toast

French toast is a beloved dish known for its simplicity and versatility. Here’s what you’ll need for a homemade version that promises to become a new tradition in your family:

• Brioche Bread: Thick slices of slightly stale brioche bread absorb the egg mixture well without falling apart.
• Eggs: The base of the soak that gives French toast its rich texture.
• Sugar: Sweetens the egg mixture, balancing the flavors.
• Milk: For creaminess. Whole milk is preferred for the richest taste.
• Orange: A bit of citrus zest transforms the dish with a fresh burst.
• Orange Liqueur (optional): Adds a sophisticated flavor, perfect for adult brunches.
• Cinnamon: A classic spice that warms up the dish.
• Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all the flavors.
• Butter: For frying, giving the French toast a crispy, golden exterior.
• Fruits or Jam for Serving: Fresh fruits or a dollop of jam make perfect toppings.

How to make french toast

1. Prep the Bread: If not already stale, you can dry out your brioche slices slightly in a warm oven.
2. Mix: Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, a pinch of salt, and cinnamon. Stir in finely grated orange zest and, if using, a splash of orange liqueur.
3. Soak: Dip each slice of bread in the egg mixture, allowing it to soak up the flavors.
4. Cook: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry each soaked bread slice until golden brown, then sprinkle sugar on each side while cooking for a caramelized finish.
5. Serve: Serve hot with your choice of fruits or a light spread of jam.

The french toast mix

The secret to irresistible French toast lies in the mix. While eggs, milk, and sugar are staples, the addition of orange zest and optional orange liqueur can elevate the ordinary into something extraordinary. Avoid condensed milk, as its heaviness isn’t necessary for achieving the perfect texture.

To finish

No doubt, topping French toast with a mix of sugar and cinnamon is one of the best parts. In this case, I love serving it with bananas or a simple banana jam. For this recipe, I made a chunky berry compote, a delightful topping that paired wonderfully with the rich flavors of the toast.

I’ve always cherished the cozy moments spent around the breakfast table, and through this recipe, I invite you to create similar memories with your loved ones. This isn’t just a dish; it’s a moment to be shared.

Whether it’s a lazy Sunday morning or a special holiday brunch, French toast brings a touch of sweetness to any day. And who knows? Maybe it’ll become a new tradition in your home too.

If you have any questions or want to share your experience, just drop a comment below or hit me up on Instagram. And don’t forget to tag me if you make it. I’d love to see it! @casacaroba,

Glau ❤︎

French Toast

---

• Author: Glau Machado

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 eggs
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 3/4 cup whole milk or half milk and half fresh cream
• 1 tablespoon Cointreau (orange liqueur)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or 1/2 teaspoon vanilla essence)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (+ extra for finishing, if desired)
• A pinch of salt
• Zest of 1 orange
• 3 tablespoons butter (for frying)

Cook Mode Prevents your screen from going dark.

---

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, milk, Cointreau, vanilla extract, cinnamon, salt, and orange zest. Whisk together using a fork.
2. Slice a loaf of brioche bread or another firm, day-old bread into 6 slices, each about 2cm thick.
3. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, letting it soak for about 30 seconds on each side. Be careful not to let the bread get too soggy.
4. Lightly dust each side of the soaked bread slices with sugar through a sieve. This helps create a caramelized crust when fried.
5. Heat the butter in a frying pan over medium-low heat and add the bread slices. Cook until golden brown on one side, then flip and repeat on the other side.
6. Remove the French toast from the pan and optionally sprinkle with a mix of sugar and cinnamon. Serve immediately on a warm plate.
7. For a twist, instead of the sugar-cinnamon mix, try serving with a berry compote and a dusting of powdered sugar.
8. Tip: If making a large batch, preheat your oven to about 80-100°C (176-212°F). As you cook each batch of French toast, place them on a baking tray and keep them warm in the oven while you cook the rest.