French Toast Recipe

Make the batter

In a shallow wide bowl or pie dish, crack the 3 large eggs and whisk until combined. Add 3 tablespoons whole milk and 3 tablespoons heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Stir in 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk again until sugar is dissolved and mixture is homogeneous.

Prepare to dip

Pour the batter into the shallow dish so it is wide enough to lay a slice of bread flat and deep enough to soak about 1/4"–1/2". Let the batter rest 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

If the Texas bread slices are very fresh and soft, let them sit uncovered for 5–10 minutes to firm slightly (this helps them absorb batter without falling apart). Keep slices whole (do not trim crusts).

Working one at a time, lay a slice into the batter and let it soak 10–15 seconds per side (longer if bread is thick or slightly stale). Lift and let excess batter drip back into the dish for 5 seconds; you want the slice evenly coated but not glued with excess batter.

Heat the pan

Place a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and let it melt and foam but not burn. Tilt the pan to coat the surface.

Cook the first slice: lay the soaked bread onto the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed 2½–3 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and set. Add the second tablespoon of butter to the pan (if needed) before flipping or after first slice is removed, then flip the slice and cook the other side 2–3 minutes until golden and cooked through. Adjust heat down slightly if browning too quickly.

Repeat with remaining slices: re-butter the pan as needed and cook each soaked slice the same way, finishing with golden-brown surfaces on both sides and a slightly custardy interior. Total cooking time per slice ~5–6 minutes.

Keep warm and serve

If making all three before serving, place finished slices on a sheet pan in a single layer and keep in a 200°F (95°C) oven to stay warm. To serve, stack or fan the three slices on a plate. Add 1 tablespoon additional butter on top so it melts into the hot toast. Drizzle ~6 tablespoons maple syrup evenly over or serve on the side. Optionally dust with 1 teaspoon confectioners' sugar. Serve immediately.