Classic Fluffy French Toast with a Golden Crust

This classic French toast recipe delivers everything you want from a perfect breakfast: a crisp, lightly golden exterior and a soft, fluffy center. The secret lies in a simple pantry ingredient that transforms the custard into a lightly coated batter, giving the bread a delicate crust while keeping the inside tender and rich.

Ideal for relaxed weekend mornings or quick weekday breakfasts, this French toast pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, honey, or maple syrup and comes together in just minutes using basic ingredients.

Why This French Toast Works

Lightly crisp outside with a soft, custardy interior
Balanced sweetness with warm cinnamon flavor
Works well with many types of bread
Easy to prepare and cook in batches

Ingredients

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
A small pinch of salt
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
10–12 ounces French or Italian bread, sliced about 2 cm thick
Butter, for cooking

Instructions

In a wide, shallow dish such as a pie plate, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
Add the eggs and whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Take your time here to ensure the flour is fully incorporated.
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, whisking until the custard is well blended and slightly thick.
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt and lightly coat the surface.
Dip one slice of bread into the custard, turning it to coat both sides. Let excess batter drip off, but do not soak the bread for too long.
Place the bread onto the hot skillet. Repeat with additional slices, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until the French toast is golden brown and set through the center.
Transfer the cooked slices to a plate and repeat with the remaining bread, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
Serve immediately while warm.

Helpful Tips

Whisk the custard again between batches, as the flour can settle at the bottom.
Slightly stale bread works best, as it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy.
Keep cooked French toast warm by placing it in a low oven while finishing the remaining slices.

Serving Suggestions

Maple syrup or honey
Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices
A dusting of powdered sugar
Greek yogurt or lightly sweetened cream

Storage and Reheating

French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, toaster, or oven until warmed through.