There’s something magical about a leisurely Sunday morning spent savoring a plate of golden-brown French toast. When that French toast is made with luscious, sweet challah bread, it transforms into a breakfast experience that’s truly unforgettable. This Challah French Toast is fluffy on the inside, crisp on the outside, and absolutely divine when drizzled with maple syrup. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a brunch dish that will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the world of Challah French Toast!

The Upside of Challah French Toast

Challah French Toast is not just a culinary delight; it’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover bread. The rich, eggy texture of challah makes it ideal for soaking up the custard-like mixture of eggs and cream, resulting in a dish that is both decadent and satisfying. This recipe is adaptable, allowing you to add your favorite spices or toppings, and it’s perfect for any occasion—from a cozy breakfast at home to a festive brunch gathering. Plus, the aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen will be sure to bring everyone to the table!

Ingredient Checklist

6 large eggs – The foundation of your custard mix.
1 cup low-fat milk – For a lighter texture while still providing creaminess.
1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness and depth to the flavor.
2 tablespoons honey – Natural sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A must for that warm, comforting flavor.
2 teaspoons cinnamon – For a cozy, spiced aroma.
Heaping 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
1 loaf day-old challah – Sliced into 1-inch (2-cm) thick pieces.
Unsalted butter – For frying and adding richness.
Vegetable oil – Helps to prevent sticking when frying.
Maple syrup – For serving, because no French toast is complete without it!

Tools of the Trade

Large mixing bowl – For whisking together your custard ingredients.
Whisk – To combine the eggs, milk, cream, and flavorings evenly.
Skillet or griddle – For frying the French toast to perfection.
Spatula – For flipping the toast without ruining its beautiful shape.
Serving plates – To present your delicious creation.

Cook Challah French Toast Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs. Add in the 1 cup low-fat milk, 1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, and the heaping 1 teaspoon salt. Whisk everything together until fully combined and frothy.

Step 2: Slice the Challah

Take your day-old challah loaf and slice it into 1-inch (2-cm) thick pieces. The thickness is important as it allows the bread to soak up the custard without falling apart.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of challah into the custard mixture, making sure to coat both sides generously. Allow the bread to soak for a few seconds, ensuring it absorbs the flavors.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet

In a skillet or griddle, heat a combination of unsalted butter and vegetable oil over medium heat. Using both helps achieve a perfect golden brown color.

Step 5: Fry the Challah

Once the skillet is hot, add the soaked challah slices in a single layer. Fry each slice for about 3-4 minutes on one side or until golden brown, then flip and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, transfer the French toast to serving plates. Drizzle with maple syrup, and feel free to add toppings like fresh berries, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Swap Guide

Milk – Use almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Heavy cream – Substitute with coconut cream for a lighter alternative.
Honey – Maple syrup or agave nectar can work well if you prefer a different sweetener.
Cinnamon – Nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

Over-soaking the bread can lead to a soggy texture. A quick dip is usually sufficient.
Not using enough fat in the skillet can lead to sticking, so be generous with the butter and oil.
Cooking on too high heat can cause the outside to burn while leaving the inside uncooked. Medium heat is key.
Using fresh challah instead of day-old can result in less absorption, so plan ahead!

Make-Ahead & Storage

If you want to get a jumpstart on your breakfast, you can prepare the custard mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Simply soak and cook the challah in the morning. Leftover Challah French Toast can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet before serving for best results.

That’s a Wrap

Now that you have all the tips and steps, it’s time to bring this Challah French Toast recipe to life in your kitchen. With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect combination of flavors and textures that will transport you to a cozy café or a sunny brunch gathering. Whether you’re treating yourself or hosting a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy a delightful breakfast that celebrates the simple joys of good food. Happy cooking!