challah french toast recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best challah french toast recipe

Challah French toast has been a staple in our house for years, and it’s not just because it’s delicious—it’s because it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold morning. I love how the soft, pillowy bread soaks up the sweet, buttery custard, turning into something almost like a dessert but still satisfying enough for breakfast. My kids adore it too, especially when we make it with extra cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup. It’s that kind of recipe that’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but also feels special when you’re hosting guests or treating yourself to a treat. Plus, the health benefits are pretty nice—it’s got whole wheat bread if you use it, which gives you a good dose of fiber and nutrients, and the eggs and milk add protein and calcium. It’s that balance of indulgent and nourishing that makes it a favorite for all of us.
Challah French Toast

Challah French Toast

4.7 from 1738 votes

A delicious twist on traditional French toast using sweetened challah bread, perfect for breakfast or brunch. The soft, pillowy texture and rich flavor make it a crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough
  • 1 loaf (16 oz) sweet challah bread, sliced into ½-inch thick pieces
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2% for richness)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
For the Topping
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • Optional: Fresh berries or powdered sugar for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an oven-safe griddle or baking tray.
  2. 2
    In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
  3. 3
    Dip each challah slice into the egg mixture, coating evenly. Place on the preheated griddle or tray.
  4. 4
    Cook over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
  5. 5
    While frying, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in a small bowl. Spread evenly over each piece of French toast.
  6. 6
    Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, until bubbly and caramelized.
  7. 7
    Optional: Garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve warm with maple syrup.

🔧Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Non-stick skillet (8-inch)
  • Oven-safe griddle or baking tray
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 10❤️Cholesterol: 120🧂Sodium: 750🌾Total Carbs: 55🥦Dietary Fiber: 3🍬Sugars: 12🥩Protein: 12

📝Notes

  • For extra richness, use whole milk instead of 2%. Adjust cinnamon to taste.
  • Make ahead: Prepare the egg mixture in advance and refrigerate. Cook French toast just before serving.
  • Substitute: Use brioche or challah rolls for a different texture.

Watch Video Of How Challah French Toast Works

This challah French toast recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without being too heavy, and the soft, slightly sweet bread soaks up the maple syrup and cinnamon so well that it feels like a comforting centerpiece for breakfast or brunch. It doesn’t require fancy ingredients or last-minute stress—just a little prep, and it comes together in one pan, making it perfect for when you need something quick but still feels special for guests. Plus, the way the golden, fluffy texture holds up to the syrup and toppings means it’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it with fruit compote or just plain butter.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Challah French Toast

What is the best way to prepare the dough for challah french toast?

To make the best challah french toast dough, start by mixing 4 cups of warm milk (about 110°F/43°C) with 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. In a separate bowl, combine 2 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes before using.

—

How do I ensure the challah french toast stays soft and moist?

For tender french toast, brush the challah slices with a mixture of melted butter and a little milk or egg wash (1 egg + 2 tbsp milk) before cooking. Avoid overcooking—pan-fry on medium-low heat until golden (about 3-4 minutes per side). For extra moisture, brush with a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated) after cooking and serve warm.

—

Can I use pre-made challah bread instead of making it from scratch?

Yes! Using store-bought challah works perfectly—just slice it thinly (about ¼-inch) and ensure it’s fresh. Lightly coat the slices in egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp milk) before frying to prevent drying. For best results, use a slightly stale loaf to mimic the texture of homemade dough.

—

What are some creative ways to customize the flavor of challah french toast?

Enhance your french toast with these flavor twists:
– Cinnamon & Nutella: Brush with cinnamon sugar and top with Nutella after cooking.
– Caramelized Onions & Cheese: Sauté onions with butter, layer with shredded cheddar, and pan-fry until bubbly.
– Coffee & Chocolate: Mix 1 tbsp instant coffee into the batter and drizzle with melted dark chocolate.
– Herb & Garlic: Add minced garlic and fresh rosemary to the egg wash for a savory twist.

—

Why does my challah french toast turn out dry or crumbly?

Dry or crumbly french toast usually happens due to these common mistakes:
1. Overcooking: Remove from heat immediately when golden (3-4 minutes per side). Let it rest 1 minute before serving.
2. Too much flour: Stick to the recipe’s ratio—excess flour makes it dense. Use a fine-mesh sieve to aerate the dough if needed.
3. Cold pan: Use a non-stick skillet preheated to medium-low. Cold pans cause uneven cooking.
4. Skipping the rest: Let the dough sit for 30 minutes to hydrate properly before slicing.
Fix: Brush with extra egg wash or syrup to restore moisture.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts