Rich and custardy brioche French toast infused with warm vanilla bean and cinnamon, served with fresh berries and maple syrup. This decadent breakfast is perfect for a cozy Mother’s Day morning or any special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Luxuriously rich and custardy – Brioche bread soaks up the vanilla-infused custard for a soft, creamy texture.
Delicate vanilla bean flavor – The addition of vanilla bean paste elevates the taste.
Quick and easy to make – Ready in under 20 minutes with simple ingredients.
Beautiful presentation – Topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, it’s both delicious and elegant.
Perfect for special occasions – Ideal for Mother’s Day, brunch gatherings, or weekend breakfasts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 loaf brioche bread, cut into ¾-inch thick slices (best if 1-2 days old)
3 eggs
1 ½ cups whole milk
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)
½ tsp cinnamon
Small pinch of salt
Unsalted butter for cooking

For Serving:

Fresh whipped cream
Fresh berries (strawberries, blackberries, raspberries)
Warm maple syrup

Directions

Prepare the Custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla bean paste, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Heat the Pan: Place a nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt a little butter.
Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of brioche into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated but not overly soaked.
Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread onto the heated skillet and cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Repeat: Continue cooking the remaining slices, whisking the custard occasionally to redistribute the vanilla bean and cinnamon.
Serve: Plate the French toast and top with fresh whipped cream, berries, and a drizzle of warm maple syrup. Enjoy immediately!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per serving: 320 kcal

Variations

Stuffed French Toast: Spread a layer of cream cheese and jam between two slices before dipping in the custard.
Chocolate French Toast: Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder to the custard mixture for a chocolatey twist.
Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped pecans or almonds for added texture.
Coconut French Toast: Substitute coconut milk for whole milk and top with toasted coconut flakes.
Savory French Toast: Omit the sugar and vanilla, then serve with bacon and a poached egg.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Freeze cooked French toast slices in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in a toaster, oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or microwave for 30 seconds.

FAQs

What type of bread is best for French toast?

Brioche is ideal, but challah or thick-cut white bread also works well.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, soak the bread in custard overnight and cook fresh in the morning.

How do I keep my French toast from getting soggy?

Use slightly stale bread and avoid oversoaking in the custard.

Can I use a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, substitute whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.

How do I get crispy edges?

Cook on medium heat and finish with a quick broil in the oven for 1-2 minutes.

Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, but vanilla bean paste adds a stronger and more aromatic flavor.

What can I serve with French toast?

Serve with crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, or a side of Greek yogurt.

How do I prevent the custard from being too eggy?

Ensure the egg mixture is well-whisked and balanced with enough milk.

Can I cook this in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes, arrange soaked slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

How do I make this recipe sugar-free?

Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or omit the sugar entirely.

Conclusion

Vanilla Bean French Toast is a rich, custardy, and indulgent breakfast that’s easy to make yet feels luxurious. With its warm vanilla and cinnamon flavors, buttery brioche, and fresh berry topping, it’s the perfect dish for Mother’s Day or any special morning. Try this recipe today and elevate your breakfast game!

Vanilla Bean French Toast