Cinnamon Sugar French Toast is a sweet and cozy breakfast treat that takes the classic French toast to a new level. I soak thick slices of brioche in a rich egg and half-and-half custard, then fry them until golden and crispy on the outside while still soft and custardy inside. The final touch—a generous coating of cinnamon sugar—adds just the right amount of spice and crunch. It’s warm, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.
Why I’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe balances indulgence and simplicity. It’s easy to make, but the flavor is rich and satisfying. The warm cinnamon aroma fills my kitchen, and each bite has a crispy, sugary edge with a soft center. Whether I’m treating myself or making breakfast for family or friends, it always feels special without being difficult or time-consuming.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For The Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For The French Toast:
4 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 cups half-and-half
1 loaf brioche bread, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
Directions
In a small bowl, I combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to make the cinnamon sugar. I set it aside for later.
In a large shallow dish, I whisk together the eggs and half-and-half until fully combined.
I dip each slice of brioche into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak on both sides. I let it absorb the custard for a few minutes without letting it get too soggy.
In a large skillet or frying pan, I heat about 1 inch of oil over medium-high heat.
Once the oil is hot, I carefully add the soaked bread slices and fry them in batches, cooking each side for about 2 to 3 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
I transfer the cooked slices to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
While the French toast is still warm, I coat each slice generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture, either by dipping or sprinkling.
I serve immediately with maple syrup, honey, or any toppings I enjoy.
Servings And Timing
This recipe makes about 6 to 8 slices of French toast, depending on the size of the bread slices. Prep time is approximately 30 minutes, and cooking time takes about 15 minutes, totaling around 45 minutes from start to finish.
Variations
I sometimes substitute the half-and-half with whole milk to make it a bit lighter.
For a deeper flavor, I swap white sugar with light brown sugar in the cinnamon mixture.
When I don’t have brioche, challah or thick French bread makes a great alternative.
Instead of dipping in cinnamon sugar, I just sprinkle it over the top for a lighter coating.
For added aroma, I mix a pinch of nutmeg or a bit of orange zest into the custard.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
I don’t recommend freezing it, as the texture becomes too soft when thawed.
To reheat, I place the slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) until they’re warmed through and slightly crisp on the outside.
FAQs
How Do I Keep The Bread From Getting Too Soggy?
I use thick slices of brioche and avoid soaking them for too long. Day-old bread also helps, as it’s firmer and soaks up the custard without falling apart.
Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?
Yes, but I prefer to make it fresh for the best texture. If I need to prepare in advance, I cook the French toast and refrigerate it for a day, then reheat in the oven before serving.
What Are The Best Toppings To Use?
Maple syrup is a classic, but I also enjoy honey, fruit preserves, or even whipped cream. A few fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a nice finishing touch.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Bread?
Absolutely. While brioche is my favorite for its richness, challah, French bread, or even thick white sandwich bread all work well.
Is There A Way To Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes. I can replace half-and-half with a creamy plant-based milk like oat or cashew milk. I make sure the texture is rich enough so the custard still sets nicely when cooked.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar French Toast is a comforting and delicious breakfast that feels like a treat every time I make it. It’s simple enough for a regular morning but special enough to serve for guests or weekend brunch. I love how the crispy cinnamon sugar contrasts with the soft, creamy interior of the toast. This recipe has become one of my favorites, and I know I’ll keep coming back to it whenever I want something sweet, warm, and satisfying.
