brioche french toast recipe
The Best brioche french toast recipe
I also love how versatile it is. You can make it for a fancy weekend brunch with fresh berries and a drizzle of maple syrup, or keep it simple with just a little powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It’s great for meal prep too—slice it ahead, soak it in the egg mixture the night before, and bake it fresh in the morning. And the health benefits? Well, brioche is made with whole wheat or enriched flour, so it’s got a little more fiber and protein than white bread. The eggs add protein and healthy fats, and if you use a little honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar, it’s still a balanced way to start the day. Plus, it’s just so satisfying—there’s nothing like that first bite of warm, buttery brioche French toast to make you feel good. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels like a little celebration every time you make it.
Classic Brioche French Toast
A rich, fluffy French toast made with brioche dough, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Topped with a savory tomato-garlic sauce for a delightful twist.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup raisins (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy. -
2
In another bowl, whisk flour, salt, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Gradually add the yeast mixture, mixing until smooth. If using raisins, fold them in. -
3
Let the dough rest in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size. -
4
Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Lightly brush with butter. Pour about 1/4 cup of dough into the pan, spreading evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden on one side. Flip and cook another 2-3 minutes. -
5
While the brioche is cooking, heat olive oil in a small pan over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in parsley if using. -
6
Mix eggs, milk, and melted butter for the egg wash. Brush over cooked brioche slices. -
7
Place brioche slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy. Serve warm with the tomato-garlic sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Stand mixer or hand mixer (optional)
- Large skillet or griddle
- Oven (for baking if desired)
- Pastry brush
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra richness, add 1 tbsp heavy cream to the dough.
- Substitute raisins with chopped nuts or dried cranberries for variety.
- Make ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate. Bake and brush with egg wash the night before, then reheat in the oven.
Variations
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced flavor.
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.
Watch Video Of How Classic Brioche French Toast Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Brioche French Toast
What is the secret to achieving a perfectly moist and tender brioche French toast?
The secret lies in using fresh, high-quality brioche dough that’s properly rested and slightly underproofed. Soaking the brioche slices in a mixture of warm milk, eggs, and a touch of vanilla or cinnamon helps retain moisture, while baking at a moderate temperature (around 350°F/175°C) ensures a soft, tender texture without burning. Additionally, brushing the toast with melted butter before baking adds richness and helps create a slightly crisp exterior.
Can I make brioche French toast without using traditional brioche dough?
Yes! You can use store-bought brioche rolls (cut into slices) or even homemade brioche dough made with a mix of bread dough and brioche ingredients like eggs and butter. For a quicker version, try using a mix of 1 cup of brioche dough and 1 cup of regular bread dough, or even a simple white bread dough enriched with a little butter and egg for extra tenderness.
Why does my brioche French toast turn out dry or crumbly?
Dry or crumbly brioche French toast often happens due to overproofing the dough, baking too long, or not soaking the slices properly. To fix this, ensure your dough is fresh and slightly firm before slicing. Soak the slices in a well-mixed egg-milk mixture (with a splash of cream or heavy cream for extra moisture) for at least 10 minutes. Bake at the right temperature (350°F/175°C) and cover the pan with foil if needed to prevent over-browning. Also, avoid overhandling the dough to prevent excessive dryness.
What are some great toppings and fillings to pair with brioche French toast?
Brioche French toast pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings! Classic options include fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. For savory variations, try smoked salmon with cream cheese, poached eggs, or a simple hollandaise sauce. Other favorites include Nutella or peanut butter for a sweet twist, or a mix of powdered sugar, whipped cream, and a splash of almond extract. Don’t forget warm maple syrup, fresh fruit compote, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic touch.
How long can I store leftover brioche French toast, and can I reheat it?
Leftover brioche French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it in a toaster, oven (at 350°F/175°C for 5–7 minutes), or microwave (30–45 seconds on medium power), brushing with a little melted butter or syrup to restore moisture. For extra crispiness, lightly toast it again before serving. If you want to freeze it, slice it thinly, wrap tightly in plastic, and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen by baking at 350°F/175°C for 10–12 minutes.
