The Story & Intro
The first time I made Brioche French Toast with Custard Center, it was one of those slow, golden mornings where the house is quiet and the coffee smells extra comforting. Back home in Crete, my grandmother always said breakfast should feel like a gentle hug, never rushed, always made with care. She didn’t make French toast like this exactly, but the spirit was the same using simple ingredients, turning them into something that feels special enough to gather everyone at the table.
Hi, I’m INAYA, 38, from the beautiful island of Crete in Greece. Cooking has been part of my life since childhood, learning beside my grandmother as she stirred, tasted, and smiled. Food, to me, is about warmth, especially for women who want to share love through cooking. This Brioche French Toast with Custard Center is one of those recipes that feels indulgent but still cozy, fancy yet familiar.
What makes this Brioche French Toast with Custard Center unforgettable is that soft, creamy surprise inside. The custard melts into the buttery brioche, creating a texture that’s almost like dessert but totally acceptable for breakfast. I love serving Brioche French Toast with Custard Center when family visits or when I want to turn an ordinary weekend into something memorable. Yes, my kitchen gets messy, but that’s half the fun. Cooking is about stories, laughter, and making memories and this recipe does exactly that.
🛒 Ingredients
| 🛒 Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| 🥖 Brioche loaf (thick slices) | 8 slices |
| 🥚 Large eggs | 4 |
| 🥛 Whole milk | 1 ½ cups |
| 🍦 Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| 🍬 Granulated sugar | ⅓ cup |
| 🧂 Salt | Pinch |
| 🧈 Unsalted butter | For frying |
| 🍮 Prepared vanilla custard (or homemade) | 1 cup |
| 🍓 Fresh berries (optional) | For serving |
| 🍯 Maple syrup | For serving |
| 🍬 Powdered sugar | For dusting |
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brioche
Slice the brioche thick about 1½ inches. If it’s very fresh, let it sit out for 30 minutes. Slightly dry bread absorbs custard better without falling apart.
Step 2: Add the Custard Center
Using a small knife, carefully cut a pocket into each slice. Spoon the vanilla custard inside, filling gently without overstuffing. Press lightly to seal.
Step 3: Make the Egg Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Dip with Care
Dip each stuffed brioche slice into the egg mixture. Let it soak for about 10 seconds per side. You want it coated, not soggy.
Step 5: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each slice 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp outside.
Step 6: Rest & Serve
Transfer to a plate, let rest 1 minute, then dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm with berries and maple syrup.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This Brioche French Toast with Custard Center shines on its own, but you can elevate it even more:
- Serve with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for balance
- Add caramelized bananas or sautéed apples
- Pair with Greek yogurt and honey
- Drizzle with berry compote instead of syrup
- Serve alongside espresso or cappuccino for café vibes
Perfect for brunch parties, Mother’s Day, holidays, or when you just want to spoil yourself a little.
📋 Recipe Card
⏱️ Time
| ⏱️ Prep | ⏱️ Cook | ⏱️ Total |
|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 15 mins | 30 mins |
🛒 Ingredients
| 🛒 Item | ✔️ |
|---|---|
| Brioche bread | ✔️ |
| Vanilla custard | ✔️ |
| Eggs & milk | ✔️ |
| Sugar & vanilla | ✔️ |
| Butter | ✔️ |
👩🍳 Instructions
| Step | 👩🍳 Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Slice and pocket brioche |
| 2 | Fill with custard |
| 3 | Whisk egg mixture |
| 4 | Dip bread |
| 5 | Cook until golden |
📝 Notes
| 📝 Tip |
|---|
| Don’t oversoak the bread |
| Medium heat prevents burning |
| Chill custard if too soft |
| Use day-old brioche if possible |
🍽️ Nutrition (Approx.)
| 🍽️ Per Serving |
|---|
| Calories: 420 |
| Protein: 10g |
| Fat: 22g |
| Carbs: 45g |
Conclusion
Every bite of Brioche French Toast with Custard Center feels like slowing down and savoring the moment. It reminds me of mornings in Crete, where food wasn’t rushed and love was always the main ingredient. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe turns an ordinary breakfast into something warm and unforgettable. Cooking isn’t about perfection it’s about joy, messes, and memories shared around the table.
