If there’s one breakfast that never fails to make my mornings extra special, it’s Challah French Toast. Thick slices of pillowy challah are soaked in a creamy, cinnamon-kissed custard, then pan-fried until perfectly golden and crisp on the outside—yet so tender and buttery within. Every bite is luxuriously soft and rich, making this the ultimate treat on weekends or whenever you crave something soul-nourishing. Whether you’re new to making French toast or want a breakfast that genuinely impresses, Challah French Toast will earn a top spot in your brunch rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This classic breakfast comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients—yet each one plays an important role in creating that iconic Challah French Toast magic. Think rich creaminess, warm spice, and the signature eggy crumb only challah offers.
- Challah Bread (6 slices): The star of the show! Its soft, slightly sweet, and golden interior soaks up the custard beautifully without falling apart.
- Eggs (3): They bind the custard and give your French toast that lovely, rich texture.
- Milk or Cream (1 cup): For a silkier, more indulgent custard—use cream if you’re feeling decadent, or milk for a lighter finish.
- Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds warmth and depth, creating that classic French toast flavor everyone loves.
- Cinnamon (1/2 tsp): A must for a cozy aroma and gentle spice in every bite.
How to Make Challah French Toast
Step 1: Whisk Your Custard
Start by combining your eggs, milk or cream, vanilla, and cinnamon in a shallow dish that’s wide enough to fit your challah slices. Whisk enthusiastically! You want everything well blended and the cinnamon evenly dispersed, which makes your Challah French Toast taste wonderfully consistent from edge to edge.
Step 2: Dip the Challah
Now, lay a slice of challah into the custard and let it soak for about 20 seconds on each side. Challah is absorbent but sturdy, so it’ll soak up plenty without turning mushy. Repeat with each slice—make sure each one gets a generous dip, allowing that custard to work its magic.
Step 3: Time to Fry
Heat a generous pat of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once sizzling, lay in your soaked challah slices. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the surface but still soft inside. Challenge yourself not to sneak a bite as their aroma fills the kitchen!
How to Serve Challah French Toast
Garnishes
This is where you can let loose! A dusting of powdered sugar creates a snowy finish, fresh berries add tartness and color, while a drizzle of real maple syrup brings out the richness of your Challah French Toast. If you’re feeling playful, try a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture.
Side Dishes
Balance your Challah French Toast with something fresh—like a bright fruit salad, or something savory, such as crisp bacon or sausage. For a classic brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs, letting all the flavors mingle on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering your French toast with sweet ricotta and berries for a stackable, dessert-style brunch. For a fun twist, cut the slices into sticks for dunking, or cut them into cubes for a decadent French toast “panzanella” with fruit and syrup drizzled on top. There’s no shortage of ways to inspire excitement at your breakfast table with Challah French Toast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have extra Challah French Toast, simply let the slices cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days, making your weekday breakfasts a treat.
Freezing
For longer storage, lay the cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Stack them with parchment between each slice, then slip them into a zip-top bag. Your future self will thank you every time you crave Challah French Toast at a moment’s notice!
Reheating
When ready to serve, reheat French toast slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until warmed through and slightly crisped. Avoid the microwave for best texture. It’ll taste just as fresh as when you first made it!
FAQs
Can I use stale challah for this recipe?
Absolutely! Slightly stale challah actually works better since it absorbs more custard without falling apart. Day-old bread is perfect for making the best Challah French Toast.
What’s the best thickness for the challah slices?
Go for about 3/4 to 1-inch thick slices. This thickness allows the bread to soak in enough custard while still holding its shape and developing a crisp, golden crust.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the milk or cream for a rich unsweetened non-dairy milk like almond, oat, or coconut. Use a plant-based margarine or oil for frying to keep it totally dairy-free.
Why is my French toast soggy?
If your Challah French Toast is turning out soggy, it might be soaking too long, or the pan isn’t hot enough to sear the outside quickly. Be sure to soak briefly and cook in a nicely heated skillet for the ideal texture.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! Just multiply the custard ingredients and use a large griddle or two pans. Keep cooked slices warm in a 200°F oven on a wire rack until they’re all ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably joyful about digging into homemade Challah French Toast, whether you’re serving it for family brunch or savoring a solo treat. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—once you do, it’ll become your new go-to for a breakfast that feels like a real celebration!
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Challah French Toast Recipe
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 4
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Rich challah bread makes for soft, custardy French toast.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 6 slices challah bread
Egg Mixture:
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Mix eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon. Combine the eggs, milk or cream, vanilla, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Dip challah slices. Dip each slice of challah bread into the egg mixture, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Fry until golden. Serve warm. Fry the dipped challah slices in a pan until golden brown on both sides. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 5m
- Cook Time: 10m
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: French
