Ingredients:

  • 8 slices Thick-Cut Brioche or Challah (approx. 1-inch thick, slightly stale is best)
  • 4 Large Eggs
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk (full fat)
  • 1/4 cup Heavy Cream (Double Cream)
  • 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (for cooking)
  • 1 tablespoon Neutral Cooking Oil (Grapeseed or Canola)

Instructions:

  1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a shallow baking dish, whisk the eggs lightly until just combined.
  2. Add Enrichments: Gradually whisk in the whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is uniform and slightly frothy, ensuring all sugar is dissolved.
  3. Prepare the Bread: Lay out the thick slices of brioche or challah. Ensure the bread is slightly day-old for optimal absorption.
  4. Heat the Pan: Place a large non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium-low heat. This low-and-slow approach is crucial for cooking the interior without burning the crust.
  5. Add Fat: Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1/2 tablespoon of neutral oil to the pan. Swirl the pan until the butter is melted and the fat mixture is sizzling slightly (The Dual-Fat Method prevents scorching).
  6. The Quick Soak: Dip one slice of bread into the custard mixture. Press down gently and allow it to soak for no more than 30 seconds per side. Lift the bread and let any excess custard drip off briefly.
  7. Cook the Toast: Place the soaked bread immediately into the preheated pan. Do not crowd the pan; cook in batches of two slices at a time.
  8. Fry until Golden: Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula near the end. The exterior should be deeply golden brown and the center should feel set (not jiggly).
  9. Repeat and Keep Warm: Transfer the cooked French Toast to a wire rack or a baking sheet in a warm 100°C/225°F oven while you cook the remaining batches, adding more butter and oil as needed.
  10. Slice and Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup and fresh berries.