Skip to main content

Diner-Style French Toast

4.6

(11)

Image may contain Food Bread Cutlery Fork Toast French Toast Dish and Meal
Photo by Chelsea Kyle, Prop Styling by Alex Brannian, Food Styling by Rhoda Boone

Diner cooks know three things about French toast: 1. Thick-cut challah is crucial. 2. Cinnamon and vanilla shouldn't be skimped on. 3. Syrup is welcome—but if you do it right, a dusting of powdered sugar is all you really need.

Cooks' Note

If you don't have a griddle or 2 skillets, use 1 skillet to cook the French toast.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    20 mintues

  • Yield

    Serves 4

Ingredients

3 large eggs
1 1/4 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
4 teaspoons vegetable oil, divided
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, divided
8 (3/4–inch-thick) slices challah or other rich, dense bread
Powdered sugar and maple syrup (for serving)

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Whisk eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.

    Step 2

    Heat a large griddle or 2 cast-iron or nonstick skillets over medium. Brush with a thin coating of oil, then a thin coating of butter.

    Step 3

    Working in batches, dip each slice of bread into egg mixture. Cook, flipping halfway through, until golden brown on each side, about 2 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining bread, brushing griddle with remaining oil and butter as needed. Dust French toast with powdered sugar just before serving. Serve with maple syrup alongside.

Read More
Like hot honey chicken with peaches and a dirty martini spritz.
A crowd-friendly, crisp-edged chicken and vegetable rice from chef José Andrés.
Tender, buttery breakfast pastries with crisp caramelized edges, a fragrant cinnamon-orange filling, and a crackly sugar topping.
With dramatic choux layers and fruit-rippled cream, it’s the drag queen of Polish desserts.
Rotisserie chicken makes quick work of these no-cook rolls with a spicy peanut sauce.
Like carrot farro salad and chicken paella.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Filberts, goobers, scaly bark nuts: Explore the world beyond almonds in this guide.