While my blog often features an array of tempting dessert recipes, my heart truly belongs to a good breakfast – especially one that feels fancy and utterly satisfying. Think lavish spreads of fluffy pancakes, crisp waffles, or, as we have here, incredible French toast. This buttermilk French toast recipe embodies the kind of decadent brunch you might dream of enjoying at a charming, old inn nestled in Vermont (an experience I’ve cherished, though they famously guarded their gingerbread cake recipe!). It’s a culinary escape, right in your own kitchen.

The inspiration for this buttermilk rendition struck me after perfecting an amazing heavy cream French toast recipe from King Arthur. That experience sparked a thought: what other ingredients could elevate French toast to new heights? Given that I’m constantly developing new cake recipes, I always have a supply of buttermilk on hand. It was a natural progression to incorporate its unique tangy richness, and the results were simply sublime, creating a French toast that’s both tender and incredibly flavorful.

If you’re eager to explore more sophisticated breakfast and brunch options, be sure to check out some of my other celebrated recipes. You absolutely must try my Overnight French Toast Casserole, which is perfect for make-ahead convenience, my delightful Apple Waffles that bring a touch of autumn to your plate, the irresistibly aromatic Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls, and my wonderfully soft Sweet Cream Pancakes. Each recipe promises a memorable start to your day.

Why You’ll Adore This Buttermilk French Toast Recipe!

This buttermilk French toast isn’t just another breakfast item; it’s a game-changer for your morning routine or special brunch occasions. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making it again and again:

• Incredibly Simple Ingredients: Forget complicated grocery lists! This classic French toast recipe calls for only 7 readily available ingredients, ensuring you can whip up a batch without any fuss. You likely already have most of them in your pantry and fridge, making it a perfect spontaneous treat. The beauty lies in the quality of these simple components coming together to create something extraordinary.
• A Universal Crowd Favorite: French toast is universally adored, and this buttermilk version takes that love to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family breakfast, a holiday brunch, or feeding a larger gathering, this recipe is easily scalable to serve a crowd. Its inviting aroma and comforting flavor profile guarantee smiles all around, making it an ideal choice for celebrations like Christmas morning, Mother’s Day, or any special occasion.
• Effortlessly Easy to Prepare: Don’t be intimidated by the impressive results – making this French toast is remarkably straightforward. The process involves just a few easy steps: prepare your luscious egg and buttermilk mixture, dip the bread to soak up all the flavors, fry it until perfectly golden in a skillet, and then keep it warm in the oven while you finish the rest. It’s so simple, you can easily prepare this dish even before your first cup of coffee has fully kicked in, ensuring a stress-free start to your day.

Gather Your Essential Ingredients for Perfection

The secret to exceptional buttermilk French toast lies in selecting the right ingredients and understanding their role. Here’s what you’ll need to create this fluffy, flavorful masterpiece:

• Large Eggs: These are absolutely essential for any French toast! The eggs form the foundational base for our rich custard batter, coating each slice of bread to create that signature soft, tender texture and beautiful golden crust when cooked. They act as the primary binder and contribute significantly to the overall richness.
• Buttermilk: This is the star ingredient that sets our recipe apart. I’ve extensively tested this recipe with buttermilk, and it consistently delivers a subtle yet distinct tanginess to the custard base. This tang beautifully complements the sweetness and spices, creating a more complex and satisfying flavor profile than French toast made with regular milk. It also helps tenderize the bread, ensuring an incredibly soft interior.
• Ground Cinnamon: A warm spice that is a must-have in my French toast! Cinnamon infuses the dish with a comforting, aromatic warmth that is simply irresistible. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of maple syrup and enhances the overall cozy breakfast experience, especially during cooler months or holidays.
• Vanilla Extract: Just a dash of pure vanilla extract significantly deepens the flavor of the custard base. It adds a layer of sweet, fragrant warmth that rounds out the spice and tang, elevating the French toast from good to truly gourmet. Don’t skip this for an extra aromatic boost.
• Granulated Sugar: A small amount of granulated sugar is added to sweeten the buttermilk mixture, balancing the tang of the buttermilk and promoting a lovely caramelization on the exterior of the toast as it cooks. This contributes to the golden-brown crust and a perfectly balanced taste.
• Brioche Bread: For the ultimate fluffy French toast, I wholeheartedly recommend using brioche bread, especially day-old or slightly stale bread. Stale brioche is perfect because it’s slightly drier, allowing it to soak up more of the flavorful buttermilk mixture without becoming soggy. Brioche loaves are typically sliced thicker, which provides a substantial piece of toast that remains wonderfully tender on the inside while achieving a crisp exterior. Its inherent richness also adds an extra layer of indulgence.
• Ground Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg, though not explicitly listed in the initial 7 ingredients but included in the recipe card, adds a fragrant, warm undertone that complements the cinnamon beautifully. It enhances the overall spice profile without overpowering it.
• Kosher Salt: A tiny bit of kosher salt (also in the recipe card) is crucial for balancing the sweetness and other flavors in the custard, making everything taste more vibrant and well-rounded. It’s a flavor enhancer that you won’t taste directly but will notice if it’s missing.

Creative Substitutions & Flavorful Additions

While this buttermilk French toast recipe is perfect as is, it’s also incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with these substitutions and additions to tailor it to your taste or what you have on hand:

• Bread Varieties: If brioche isn’t available, or you’re looking for a different flavor profile, you have several excellent options. You could swap out plain sliced brioche bread for a delightful chocolate chip brioche bread for an extra sweet twist. Challah bread is another fantastic choice, offering a similar rich, eggy texture that soaks up the custard beautifully. In a pinch, a good quality regular sliced sandwich bread or thick-cut white bread will work, though the texture might be slightly less luxurious. For a heartier option, Texas toast or even sourdough can provide a wonderful base. Just ensure the bread is at least a day old to prevent sogginess.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Granulated sugar works perfectly, but for a deeper, more molasses-like flavor, feel free to swap it out for light brown sugar. You could also incorporate a touch of maple syrup directly into the batter for an all-encompassing maple flavor, or a spoonful of honey for a different kind of sweetness. Adjust the amount to your preference, keeping in mind that the French toast will be served with additional syrup.
• Spice Exploration: Cinnamon is classic, but don’t limit yourself! Swap out the cinnamon for a fragrant pumpkin spice blend for a seasonal twist, or embrace other warm spices like a touch of cardamom, a pinch of allspice, or even a hint of ginger. A little orange zest can also add a bright, citrusy note that complements the spices beautifully.
• Buttermilk Alternatives: While it wouldn’t technically be “buttermilk” French toast, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can still achieve a delicious result. Use an equal amount of heavy cream for an incredibly rich and indulgent French toast (be aware it makes it super decadent!). Alternatively, regular whole milk can be used for a lighter version. You can also make a quick homemade buttermilk substitute: add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a liquid measuring cup, then fill it up to the ½ cup mark with milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it curdles, then stir and use.
• Elevated Flavor with Bourbon: For a grown-up twist, kick up the flavor a notch by adding 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite bourbon to the custard mixture. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a wonderfully complex, subtle warmth that pairs exceptionally well with the sweet and spicy notes.
• Other Flavor Enhancers: Consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty depth, or a touch of orange or lemon zest for a bright, fresh aroma. A sprinkle of cocoa powder can also be mixed into the batter for a chocolatey French toast, especially if using chocolate chip brioche.

1. Step 1: Prepare Your Station. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°Fahrenheit (200°C). This oven will be used to keep your cooked French toast warm while you fry the remaining slices. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. In a shallow dish or wide bowl (a pasta bowl works wonderfully), whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until the mixture is completely smooth and well combined. Ensure there are no streaks of egg white remaining.

2. Step 2: Prepare the Pan and Soak the First Side. Place a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of butter or a generous spray of cooking spray and allow it to melt and shimmer without burning. Now, carefully place one slice of brioche bread into the buttermilk mixture. Let one side of the bread soak for approximately 20 seconds. This ensures the bread absorbs a good amount of the delicious custard, making it incredibly tender.

3. Step 3: Soak the Second Side. Using tongs or your fingers, gently flip the piece of toast in the French toast batter. Allow the other side to soak for another 20 seconds. This consistent soaking time on both sides is key to achieving a uniformly moist and flavorful interior. Once soaked, lift the bread and let any excess liquid drip off back into the bowl before transferring it to the hot skillet.

4. Step 4: Fry Until Golden Brown. Carefully place the saturated eggy bread into the hot skillet. Cook until it reaches a beautiful golden brown color, which usually takes about 2 minutes per side. The sugar in the batter will help with caramelization, creating a slightly crisp exterior. Keep a close eye on the heat; you might need to adjust it to prevent burning.

5. Step 5: Keep Warm and Continue Cooking. Once a slice is perfectly golden brown on both sides, transfer the cooked French toast to the prepared baking sheet in the preheated oven. This keeps the toast warm and slightly crisp while you continue frying the remaining pieces. It’s crucial for serving everyone a hot and fresh breakfast.

6. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! After all the pieces of French toast have been cooked to perfection and are warm from the oven, it’s time to serve! Arrange them beautifully on plates and complete your masterpiece with a generous pour of warm maple syrup and a scattering of fresh fruit like raspberries, blueberries, or sliced strawberries. Get ready to savor every delicious bite!

My Essential Tips for Flawless French Toast

Achieving perfectly golden, fluffy French toast every time is easier with these expert tips:

• Monitor Pan Temperature Closely: It’s crucial to keep a vigilant eye on your skillet’s temperature as you cook successive batches of French toast. The pan tends to heat up over time, and if it gets too hot, subsequent slices might burn before cooking through. Don’t hesitate to lower the heat to medium-low after the first few pieces to maintain an even cooking temperature and prevent scorching. A consistent medium heat is generally ideal.
• Dip One Slice at a Time for Optimal Saturation: For the best results, always dip one slice of bread into the custard mixture at a time. Allow it to truly soak for a full 20 seconds on each side. This ensures that the thick slices of brioche bread are fully saturated with the flavorful buttermilk custard, leading to an incredibly tender and moist interior. Don’t rush this step, as proper saturation is key to the French toast’s signature texture.
• Let Excess Liquid Drip Off: After each slice has had its thorough soak, lift it gently from the bowl and allow any excess liquid to drip off back into the batter. This simple step prevents the pan from becoming too wet, which can lead to steaming instead of frying, and helps achieve that desirable golden, slightly crispy exterior.
• Utilize a Shallow Bowl for Easy Dipping: The right equipment makes a difference! Using a shallow bowl, such as a wide pasta bowl or a pie dish, will make it significantly easier to fully immerse and flip the bread without making a mess or breaking the slices. The wider surface area allows for quick and even coating.
• Use Day-Old or Stale Bread: While fresh brioche is delicious, day-old or slightly stale bread is actually preferred for French toast. It’s drier and firmer, meaning it will absorb the custard more effectively without falling apart or becoming mushy, resulting in a superior texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook French toast in batches, giving each slice enough space in the skillet. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature and can lead to steamed, rather than properly fried, French toast. Give each piece room to achieve that beautiful golden crust.
• A Touch of Oil with Butter: While butter adds amazing flavor, it can burn easily. Try using a mixture of butter and a neutral oil (like canola or grapeseed oil) in your skillet. The oil will raise the smoke point of the butter, allowing it to brown nicely without burning, giving your French toast a beautiful golden hue and rich flavor.

Delightful Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal

This buttermilk French toast is a versatile canvas for a variety of delicious toppings and accompaniments. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

• A Perfect Fall Breakfast Treat: Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn by serving this fluffy buttermilk French toast alongside a warm pumpkin spice latte. You can easily create your own with my homemade pumpkin sauce for coffee recipe. The combination of warm spices and creamy pumpkin will perfectly complement the tang and sweetness of the French toast, making for an unforgettable seasonal meal.
• Bursting with Fresh Fruit: One of my absolute favorite ways to enjoy French toast is with an abundance of fresh fruit. Bright, juicy berries like raspberries, blueberries, and sliced strawberries add a wonderful freshness and slight tartness that cuts through the richness of the toast. For an extra pop of flavor, grate a little lemon zest over the berries before serving – the zing will awaken your palate! A simple fruit compote (like berry or peach) is also a fantastic addition.
• The Ultimate Breakfast Spread: If you’re planning a grand breakfast or brunch spread, this buttermilk French toast is an ideal centerpiece. Pair it with other indulgent favorites for a truly spectacular feast. Consider serving it alongside my Apple Waffles for another fruity element, decadent Chocolate Cinnamon Rolls for a sweet indulgence, and my aromatic Brown Butter Cinnamon Rolls for a truly comforting experience. A savory side of crispy bacon or sausage would complete the spread.
• Your Favorite Toppings Galore: While warm maple syrup is, for me, an absolute non-negotiable must-have, don’t stop there! Explore a variety of toppings to customize each bite. A dollop of unsalted butter melting into the warm toast adds extra richness. A cloud of freshly whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance and sweetness. Fruit jams, preserves, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce are also fantastic choices. For a little crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts or granola.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

While this French toast is truly best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, you can certainly store leftovers or prepare it in advance for convenience:

I highly recommend savoring the French toast immediately after cooking for the optimal taste and texture. However, if you have leftovers, allow the French toast to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Place the cooled slices in an airtight container and refrigerate for 2-3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave for a quick warm-up, though the texture might be slightly softer. For a crispier result, reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, or toast it in a toaster oven until warmed through and lightly crisped. Alternatively, you can pop them back into a preheated oven (around 350°F/175°C) for 5-10 minutes until heated.

For longer storage, French toast freezes beautifully. Once completely cooled, arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until firm. Then, transfer the partially frozen slices to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat them directly from frozen in a toaster, toaster oven, or conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and warmed through. This makes for a perfect make-ahead breakfast option!

Explore More Delicious Breakfast Recipes!

If you’ve enjoyed this buttermilk French toast, you’ll love these other fantastic breakfast and brunch recipes from my kitchen. Each one is crafted to bring joy to your morning:

If you’ve made this incredibly delicious buttermilk French toast recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about it! Make sure to leave a ⭐️ rating and a thoughtful review below to share your experience and tips with other home cooks. Your feedback is invaluable and truly brightens my day. I love seeing when you bring my recipes to life in your own kitchen, so please tag me on Instagram @alpineella so I can admire your beautiful creations! You can also stay connected and follow along for more culinary inspiration on Pinterest, Facebook, and TikTok!

Easy Buttermilk French Toast with Brioche Bread

Ella Gilbert

Nutrition