The Best Challah French Toast Recipe: Rich, Fluffy & Delicious

The Perfect Challah French Toast Recipe for a Rich and Fluffy Breakfast

Introduction to Challah French Toast

What Makes Challah Bread Special for French Toast?

Challah bread is the ideal choice for French toast because of its rich, egg-enriched dough and tender crumb. This traditional Jewish bread has a soft, fluffy texture that absorbs the custard mixture beautifully without falling apart. Unlike standard white bread, challah’s structure holds up when dipped in eggs and milk, ensuring every bite is perfectly soft and custardy on the inside while achieving a golden, crispy crust when cooked.

Its subtle sweetness also complements the flavors of a classic French toast recipe—like cinnamon, vanilla, and syrup—enhancing the dish without overpowering it. Challah’s versatility makes it the perfect bread to take your breakfast from basic to gourmet.

The History and Origins of French Toast

The concept of French toast dates back thousands of years, with variations found in many cultures. The dish originated as a creative way to use leftover or stale bread, transforming it into a delicious meal.

Ancient Romans are credited with the earliest version of French toast, soaking bread in milk and eggs before frying it. In France, the dish became known as pain perdu, or “lost bread,” as it was a way to repurpose stale bread. The name “French toast” emerged later, likely coined by English or American cooks in the 17th century.

Today, French toast is a global breakfast favorite, and using challah bread has taken the dish to new heights. Its rich, golden slices make this classic even more irresistible.

Why This Recipe Is a Family Favorite

This challah French toast recipe is beloved for its perfect balance of flavor, texture, and simplicity. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for any cook, beginner or experienced.
Rich and Fluffy: The egg custard mixture and challah bread create a golden, crispy exterior while remaining soft and rich on the inside.
Customizable: You can add flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla, and serve it with toppings like syrup, berries, or powdered sugar.
Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether for a family brunch, holiday breakfast, or a cozy weekend morning, this recipe creates moments worth savoring.

This dish is more than just breakfast—it’s comfort food that brings families together at the table.

Essential Ingredients for Challah French Toast Recipe

Selecting the Best Challah Bread

The key to outstanding French toast lies in selecting high-quality challah bread. Here’s what to look for:

Fresh or Day-Old Bread: While fresh challah works well, slightly stale challah is ideal as it absorbs the custard without getting soggy.
Thick Slices: Cut the challah into slices about 1-inch thick to ensure the perfect texture—crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Braided Loaf: A traditional braided challah not only looks beautiful but also provides sturdy slices for soaking up the custard.

Key Ingredients for the Egg Custard Mixture

The custard mixture is what gives French toast its rich, velvety texture. For the perfect balance, use the following ingredients:

Eggs: The base of the custard mixture, eggs provide structure and richness. Use large eggs for best results.
Milk or Cream: Whole milk or heavy cream adds creaminess to the custard. For an extra indulgent version, try half-and-half.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor, giving the French toast a warm, aromatic touch.
Sugar: A small amount of sugar adds a touch of sweetness and helps caramelize the exterior.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

While the classic custard mixture is delicious on its own, a few optional ingredients can take your French toast to the next level:

Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice, pairing perfectly with challah bread.
Nutmeg: A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg provides a subtle, aromatic depth to the custard.
Orange Zest: For a refreshing twist, add a bit of orange zest to brighten the flavors.
Maple Extract: A small drop of maple extract intensifies the classic pairing of French toast and maple syrup.

By selecting the right challah bread and perfecting the custard mixture, you’ll create a French toast recipe that’s rich, fluffy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you keep it simple or add extra spices, this dish promises to be a morning favorite for years to come.

The Best Kitchen Tools for French Toast

Must-Have Equipment: Skillet, Whisk, and Mixing Bowl

To create the perfect challah French toast, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more efficient:

Skillet: A skillet or frying pan is essential for cooking French toast evenly. Look for a pan that distributes heat well to achieve a golden-brown crust without burning.
Whisk: A whisk is necessary for blending the custard mixture. It ensures the eggs, milk, and flavorings are thoroughly combined for a smooth and lump-free texture.
Mixing Bowl: A medium-to-large mixing bowl allows ample space to prepare the custard. Choose a bowl that’s wide and shallow enough for dipping the challah slices.

These basic tools are the foundation for making consistently great French toast every time.

Non-Stick Pans vs. Cast Iron for Cooking

When it comes to cooking French toast, your choice of pan can make a significant difference in the results:

Non-Stick Pans: These are great for beginners because they prevent the bread from sticking to the surface. Non-stick pans also require less butter or oil, making cleanup easier. However, they may not achieve the same level of browning as a cast-iron skillet.
Cast Iron Skillet: A well-seasoned cast iron skillet is ideal for achieving a crispy, golden crust. It retains heat evenly, ensuring each slice is cooked to perfection. While it may require a little more butter or oil to prevent sticking, the flavor and texture are worth it.

For best results, either pan works, but a cast iron skillet will give you that classic golden-brown finish.

Why Bread Knives Make a Difference

Using a bread knife is crucial for cutting challah bread into even slices without crushing or tearing the loaf. A serrated bread knife allows you to:

Cut Clean, Even Slices: The sawing motion of a bread knife prevents flattening the soft texture of challah. Aim for slices about 1 inch thick for optimal custard absorption.
Preserve the Bread’s Structure: Uneven cuts can result in over-soaked, soggy French toast. A sharp bread knife ensures consistent thickness for even cooking.

Investing in a good bread knife will improve the quality of your French toast and other bread-based dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Challah French Toast

Preparing the Bread: Thickness and Freshness

Slice the Bread: Use a bread knife to cut the challah into slices approximately 1 inch thick. Thicker slices will absorb the custard mixture without becoming too soft or soggy.
Day-Old Bread Works Best: Slightly stale challah is ideal because it holds its shape and absorbs custard more evenly. If using fresh bread, let the slices sit out for 15-20 minutes to dry out slightly.

Mixing the Perfect Custard Mixture

The custard mixture is the heart of French toast. Follow these steps for a smooth, flavorful custard:

Crack 3-4 large eggs into a wide mixing bowl.
Add 1 cup of whole milk or cream for richness.
Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1-2 tablespoons of sugar.
For added flavor, whisk in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg.
Add a small pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and the eggs are fully incorporated.

A well-mixed custard ensures even soaking and a consistent flavor throughout each slice.

Dipping the Challah: Tips to Prevent Sogginess

To avoid soggy French toast, follow these dipping tips:

Quick Dips: Dip each slice of challah into the custard mixture for 2-3 seconds per side. Letting the bread sit too long in the mixture will cause it to absorb too much liquid.
Let Excess Custard Drip: After dipping, gently lift the slice and let any excess custard drip off before placing it in the skillet.
Work in Batches: Dip and cook a few slices at a time so they don’t sit too long before hitting the pan.

Cooking Techniques for Golden-Brown Results

For perfectly cooked challah French toast:

Preheat the Pan: Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add butter or a combination of butter and oil to prevent sticking.
Cook Each Side: Place the dipped challah slices into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the slices in batches to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature and lead to soggy toast.
Keep Warm: Place cooked slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm while finishing the rest of the batch.

By following these steps and using the right tools, you’ll achieve a golden-brown, fluffy, and delicious challah French toast every time. Serve with your favorite toppings—like maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries—for a breakfast that feels special yet easy to prepare.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Challah French Toast

How to Avoid Over-Soaking the Bread

Over-soaking challah can lead to soggy, mushy French toast. To prevent this:

Quick Dips: Submerge each slice of bread into the custard for no more than 2-3 seconds per side. The goal is to coat the bread evenly without oversaturating it.
Wider Mixing Bowl: Use a shallow, wide bowl to quickly dip the slices, ensuring they get a light but thorough coating.
Test a Slice: If you’re unsure, try cooking a single slice first to check the custard absorption before proceeding with the rest.

Managing Heat for Crispy Edges and a Soft Center

Achieving the perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, custardy center requires proper heat management:

Medium Heat: Start with medium heat to allow the bread to cook evenly without burning.
Butter Control: Melt butter in the pan, but don’t let it brown before adding the bread. If needed, adjust the heat down to prevent the butter from scorching.
Flip Carefully: Use a spatula to gently flip the toast after 2-3 minutes on one side. The toast should be golden-brown before flipping.
Monitor Temperature: If the outside browns too quickly while the center remains raw, lower the heat and cook a bit longer.

Using Day-Old Bread for the Best Texture

Day-old challah bread is ideal for French toast because it strikes the perfect balance between firmness and absorbency:

Why Day-Old Works: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture more slowly, preventing it from becoming too soggy. Fresh bread can absorb too much liquid and fall apart.
Quick Drying Method: If you only have fresh challah, slice it and let it sit out for 15-20 minutes to dry slightly. Alternatively, bake the slices in a 250°F oven for 5-10 minutes to firm them up.

By using day-old challah and controlling soaking time, you’ll get French toast with the ideal texture—crispy outside and soft, custardy inside.

Delicious Variations of Challah French Toast

Classic Cinnamon Sugar Challah French Toast

For a timeless twist, enhance your French toast with cinnamon and sugar:

Ingredients: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of sugar to the custard mixture.
Finishing Touch: After cooking, sprinkle the toast with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for an extra layer of flavor. Serve with maple syrup or whipped cream.

Stuffed Challah French Toast: Cream Cheese and Berries

Take your French toast up a notch with a creamy, fruity filling:

Ingredients:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
How to Make It:

Cut a small pocket into each challah slice without cutting all the way through.
Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar, then spread it inside the pocket. Add a few fresh berries.
Dip the stuffed slices into the custard mixture and cook as usual.

Serving Tip: Top with additional berries, powdered sugar, and a drizzle of syrup for a decadent treat.

Chocolate-Stuffed Challah French Toast

Indulge your sweet tooth with this rich, chocolatey version:

Ingredients:
Chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella) or chocolate chips
How to Make It:

Slice challah bread and spread a generous layer of chocolate hazelnut spread between two slices. Alternatively, add chocolate chips inside a bread pocket.
Dip the stuffed slices into the custard mixture and cook until golden-brown on both sides.

Serving Tip: Dust with powdered sugar and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate.

Savory Version with Cheese and Herbs

If you prefer a savory twist on French toast, try this flavorful version:

Ingredients:
½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, gruyère, or mozzarella)
Fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make It:

Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs to the custard mixture.
Dip challah slices into the savory custard and cook until golden.
Top each slice with shredded cheese and let it melt slightly in the pan.

Serving Tip: Serve with a side of sautéed mushrooms, avocado, or a fried egg for a hearty, savory breakfast.

These creative variations ensure that challah French toast can suit any taste, from sweet and indulgent to savory and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a cozy morning or a special brunch, these ideas will turn a simple breakfast into something extraordinary.

Creative Toppings for Challah French Toast

Traditional Toppings: Maple Syrup and Powdered Sugar

The timeless combination of maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar enhances the rich, buttery flavor of challah French toast. Drizzling warm maple syrup over golden-brown slices adds a hint of earthy sweetness, while the powdered sugar creates an elegant and classic finishing touch.

Fruit Toppings: Fresh Berries, Bananas, and Apples

For a fresh and vibrant twist, top your challah French toast with an assortment of fruits:

Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries offer bursts of color and a tangy contrast to the sweet toast.
Bananas: Sliced bananas pair beautifully with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Caramelized Apples: Cook sliced apples with a bit of butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for a warm and comforting topping perfect for fall mornings.

Indulgent Toppings: Nutella, Caramel, and Whipped Cream

Take your challah French toast to dessert-worthy levels with indulgent toppings:

Nutella: Spread a layer of Nutella on each slice or drizzle it over the top for a chocolate-hazelnut delight. Add a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts for extra texture.
Caramel Sauce: A rich, buttery caramel drizzle brings a decadent, gourmet feel to the dish. Top with a pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel variation.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream balances the dense texture of challah French toast and pairs perfectly with fruits, syrups, or chocolate toppings.

Challah French Toast for Special Occasions

Holiday Brunch Ideas: Christmas, Easter, and Mother’s Day

Challah French toast can serve as a show-stopping centerpiece for any special brunch:

Christmas: Add a festive touch with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cranberry compote, along with a garnish of powdered sugar to resemble fresh snow.
Easter: Use pastel-colored toppings like fresh fruits or edible flowers to reflect the light and cheerful spring season. A touch of lemon zest adds brightness to the dish.
Mother’s Day: Serve with delicate toppings like fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and a drizzle of honey to create a simple yet elegant breakfast for moms.

Presentation Tips for Serving to Guests

Slice your challah French toast into triangles or thick strips for a unique look.
Serve it on white or neutral-toned plates to make the colors of the toppings pop.
Stack slices slightly askew to add height and visual interest. A final drizzle of syrup or sauce cascading down the stack creates a restaurant-style presentation.

Adding Festive Garnishes for a Beautiful Plate

Complete your dish with thoughtful garnishes to elevate its appearance:

Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves add a vibrant green accent and a subtle herbal note.
Edible Flowers: Use flowers like violets, pansies, or nasturtiums to enhance the festive, upscale look.
Candied Nuts: Sprinkle chopped candied pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a crunchy texture and sweet finish.

With these creative toppings, special occasion ideas, and presentation tips, challah French toast transforms from a simple breakfast to a stunning centerpiece that is both delicious and visually impressive.

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Breakfast

Beverage Pairings: Coffee, Tea, or Fresh Juice

The right beverage can elevate your challah French toast experience, balancing its rich flavors:

Coffee: A strong, freshly brewed coffee—like a French press or espresso—pairs beautifully with the custardy sweetness of the toast. Try flavored coffees like vanilla, hazelnut, or cinnamon for an extra treat.
Tea: For a lighter pairing, opt for black tea or chai. Chai’s warming spices complement the cinnamon and nutmeg in the toast, while green tea adds a refreshing contrast.
Fresh Juice: Freshly squeezed orange juice or a mixed berry juice adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish. For a festive brunch, consider a mimosa (orange juice and champagne) or sparkling water with lemon.

Protein Sides: Bacon, Sausages, and Scrambled Eggs

Adding protein-rich sides balances the sweetness of challah French toast and creates a hearty, satisfying meal:

Crispy Bacon: The savory, smoky flavor of bacon perfectly contrasts the sweet, soft texture of French toast. Serve it crispy for maximum enjoyment.
Sausages: Breakfast sausages—whether pork, chicken, or vegetarian—add a rich, spiced complement to the dish. Maple-glazed sausages pair especially well with the toast.
Scrambled Eggs: Light, fluffy scrambled eggs provide a neutral, protein-packed side that balances the dish. Season them simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of fresh herbs like chives.

These savory additions turn your breakfast into a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Light Sides: Yogurt, Granola, or Smoothies

For a lighter, fresher pairing, try these nutritious options:

Yogurt: A bowl of Greek yogurt topped with honey and fresh berries provides a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet French toast. The probiotics also make it a healthy addition.
Granola: Sprinkle granola over yogurt or serve it on the side for an added crunch. The nutty, toasted flavor of granola complements the buttery challah.
Smoothies: A fruit smoothie—like a banana and berry blend—adds a refreshing and nutritious element to your breakfast. For extra protein, add a spoonful of nut butter or a scoop of protein powder.

These light sides keep the meal balanced and energizing without being overly heavy.

How to Store and Reheat Challah French Toast

Storing Leftovers: Refrigerator and Freezer Methods

To save leftover challah French toast for later, follow these simple storage methods:

Refrigerator: Place cooled French toast slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, layer cooled slices with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date for easy tracking.

Best Ways to Reheat: Skillet, Oven, or Air Fryer

Reheating French toast properly ensures it retains its texture and flavor:

Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of butter. Reheat each slice for 1-2 minutes per side until warm and crisp. This method preserves the toast’s golden crust.
Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and warm for 8-10 minutes. For extra crispness, flip the slices halfway through.
Air Fryer: Place slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, checking for crispiness. This method is quick and produces great results.

Avoid microwaving French toast, as it can make the slices soggy.

Preparing Challah French Toast Ahead of Time

For busy mornings or special occasions, prepare your challah French toast in advance:

Make the Custard the Night Before: Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, and spices, then refrigerate in a covered container. This saves time during the morning rush.
Soak and Store Overnight: For a baked French toast casserole, layer challah slices in a baking dish, pour the custard over the top, and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning for an effortless breakfast.
Cook and Store: Fully cook the French toast ahead of time, let it cool, and store it in the fridge or freezer. Reheat using the skillet, oven, or air fryer methods for quick, fresh-tasting results.

Preparing ahead allows you to enjoy a stress-free breakfast while serving delicious, golden-brown challah French toast.

By pairing your French toast with complementary sides, mastering the art of storage and reheating, and preparing in advance, you’ll always have a rich, fluffy, and satisfying meal ready to impress. Whether it’s a weekday treat or a festive brunch, challah French toast will be the star of your breakfast table!

Nutritional Information for Challah French Toast

Macronutrient Breakdown: Calories, Carbs, Fats, and Protein

Challah French toast is a rich, indulgent dish, and its nutritional profile reflects its ingredients:

Calories: On average, one serving (2 slices) contains 300-400 calories, depending on the thickness of the bread and the amount of butter or oil used for cooking.
Carbohydrates: A serving typically provides 35-45 grams of carbs, mainly from the challah bread. Toppings like syrup or fruit can add more.
Fats: With whole milk or cream and eggs in the custard, fat content ranges from 10-15 grams per serving. Cooking with butter adds additional fat.
Protein: Each serving offers 10-12 grams of protein, coming from the eggs and milk in the custard.

While it’s an indulgent dish, it also provides energy and essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and B vitamins from the bread and eggs.

Healthier Adjustments: Low-Fat Milk and Sugar Substitutes

For a lighter version of challah French toast, try these adjustments:

Milk Options: Use low-fat milk or plant-based alternatives like almond, oat, or skim milk to reduce fat and calories. For a creamier texture, combine a small amount of low-fat milk with almond milk.
Egg Whites: Replace half of the whole eggs with egg whites to lower cholesterol and fat while maintaining protein content.
Sugar Substitutes: Replace refined sugar in the custard with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia. Use sparingly to keep the sweetness balanced.
Butter Alternatives: Cook with a light coating of coconut oil or non-stick spray instead of butter to cut down on saturated fat.

These changes keep the dish flavorful while making it lighter and healthier.

Using Whole Wheat Challah for Added Nutrition

Whole wheat challah is an excellent alternative for added fiber and nutrients:

More Fiber: Whole wheat challah contains higher amounts of dietary fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
Nutrient Boost: Whole wheat flour provides more vitamins and minerals, like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, compared to traditional white flour.
Flavor and Texture: While denser than regular challah, whole wheat challah still absorbs custard well and offers a slightly nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the richness of French toast.

By making these substitutions, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of challah French toast without sacrificing taste or texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Challah French Toast

Using Bread That Is Too Fresh

Fresh challah is soft and airy, which makes it more likely to fall apart or become mushy when dipped in custard:

Solution: Use day-old bread or slightly stale challah. If your challah is fresh, slice it and let it sit out for 20-30 minutes, or bake the slices in a 250°F oven for 5-10 minutes to dry them out.

Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture evenly and retains its structure when cooked.

Over-Soaking or Under-Soaking the Challah

Getting the perfect custard absorption is key to great French toast:

Over-Soaking: Leaving the bread in the custard for too long causes it to absorb too much liquid, resulting in a soggy texture.
Fix: Dip each slice for 2-3 seconds per side—just enough to coat the bread without oversaturation.
Under-Soaking: If the bread isn’t soaked enough, it will lack flavor and won’t achieve that custardy texture.
Fix: Make sure the slices are dipped evenly, allowing the mixture to coat the surface and edges.

Consistency is key to achieving the perfect texture.

Cooking on Heat That’s Too High or Low

Incorrect heat can make or break your challah French toast:

Too High Heat: Cooking on high heat causes the exterior to brown too quickly while leaving the inside undercooked.
Fix: Use medium heat to allow the toast to cook evenly, achieving a golden-brown crust without burning.
Too Low Heat: Low heat can result in a pale, limp French toast with a soggy center.
Fix: Maintain a steady medium heat, preheating the pan and adjusting as needed throughout cooking.

A properly heated skillet or griddle ensures the perfect balance—crispy edges and a soft, custardy center.

By avoiding these common mistakes and making simple nutritional adjustments, you can perfect your challah French toast and enjoy a healthier, more delicious breakfast every time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, these tips ensure the best results!

Vegan and Dairy-Free Options for Challah French Toast

Choosing Vegan Challah Bread

Traditional challah bread contains eggs, making it unsuitable for vegans. However, many bakeries and recipes offer vegan challah, made without eggs or dairy. Here’s what to look for:

Egg-Free Options: Vegan challah uses plant-based oils and egg replacements like aquafaba (chickpea water) or applesauce for moisture and structure.
Where to Find It: Check specialty bakeries, health food stores, or online recipes for homemade vegan challah. Brands like Trader Joe’s or local artisan bakeries often carry vegan options.
DIY Vegan Challah: If you love baking, try making your own vegan challah. Replace eggs with aquafaba, and use non-dairy milk and plant-based oils.

Vegan challah retains its signature fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor, making it perfect for French toast.

Egg Substitutes: Flax Eggs or Plant-Based Custards

Eggs provide the structure in traditional French toast, but vegan substitutes can achieve the same custardy texture:

Flax Eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water to create a thick, egg-like mixture. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to gel. Use this as a 1:1 replacement for each egg.
Chia Eggs: Similar to flax eggs, combine 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, letting it thicken into a gel-like consistency.
Plant-Based Custards: For a smooth and creamy vegan custard, blend together:
1 cup of non-dairy milk (almond, oat, or soy milk)
1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch (to thicken)
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor

These substitutes ensure the bread absorbs a rich, flavorful custard while remaining completely egg-free.

Dairy-Free Alternatives: Almond, Oat, or Coconut Milk

Replace traditional dairy milk or cream with these plant-based options for a creamy, custard-like texture:

Almond Milk: Light and slightly nutty, almond milk adds a subtle flavor and works well for a lighter French toast.
Oat Milk: Creamier than almond milk, oat milk provides a rich texture and slightly sweet flavor, making it perfect for French toast.
Coconut Milk: Use full-fat coconut milk for a decadent, custardy result. It adds a slight coconut flavor, which pairs beautifully with toppings like fresh fruit or toasted coconut.

For a neutral option, choose unsweetened and unflavored non-dairy milk to allow the cinnamon, vanilla, and challah to shine.

With vegan challah, creative egg substitutes, and dairy-free milk alternatives, you can easily prepare a vegan and dairy-free challah French toast that’s just as delicious, rich, and satisfying as the original. Whether you’re vegan, lactose-intolerant, or simply experimenting with plant-based options, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy a perfect plate of French toast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is the Best Bread for French Toast?

The best bread for French toast is one that has structure, absorbs custard well, and adds flavor. Challah and brioche are top choices due to their enriched dough, which includes eggs and butter, making them rich and soft yet sturdy. Other good options include:

Brioche: Similar to challah but slightly richer due to butter content.
Sourdough: Offers a tangy flavor and sturdy texture.
French Baguette: Works well when sliced thickly, though it’s less soft than challah.

Challah is often preferred for its subtle sweetness and ability to achieve a crispy exterior with a soft, custardy interior.

Can I Use Fresh Challah Instead of Day-Old Bread?

While day-old challah is ideal because it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy, fresh challah can still work. If you only have fresh bread, try these tips to dry it out:

Slice and Let It Sit: Slice the challah into 1-inch pieces and leave them out at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
Quick Oven Drying: Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake them at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes. This helps remove excess moisture without toasting the bread.

Drying out the bread ensures it soaks up the custard evenly without turning mushy.

How Long Should I Soak the Bread?

To avoid soggy or under-soaked French toast, aim for 2-3 seconds per side when dipping the bread into the custard mixture. The goal is to coat the bread thoroughly without letting it absorb too much liquid.

For thicker slices (like 1-inch challah), you can soak slightly longer but avoid submerging the bread for too long, as this will make it fall apart when cooked.

Can I Make Challah French Toast Without Eggs?

Yes, you can make egg-free challah French toast using plant-based substitutes. Some great options include:

Flax Eggs: Combine 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until gel-like.
Chia Seeds: Use the same ratio as flax eggs to create a similar egg-like consistency.
Cornstarch Custard: Mix 1 cup non-dairy milk, 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch, 1 teaspoon vanilla, and a pinch of cinnamon.

These alternatives work well for vegan or egg-free diets, providing the custardy texture French toast requires.

How Do I Keep French Toast Warm While Serving?

To keep French toast warm while serving:

Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C).
Place the cooked slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Keep the baking sheet in the oven until you’re ready to serve.

Avoid stacking slices, as the steam can make them soggy. This method keeps the toast warm and crisp until everyone is ready to eat.

Can I Freeze Challah French Toast?

Yes, challah French toast freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how:

Cool Completely: Let the French toast cool to room temperature.
Layer with Parchment: Place slices in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freeze: Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

To reheat:

Use the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
Place slices in an air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm and crispy.

Why Is Challah Good for French Toast?

Challah is perfect for French toast because of its enriched dough—it’s made with eggs, oil, and a touch of sweetness, which gives it a soft, tender crumb. Its slightly dense texture absorbs the custard well without becoming soggy, and its subtle flavor enhances the richness of French toast.

The braided structure also makes for beautiful, sturdy slices that hold up during soaking and cooking.

What Is the Most Common Mistake in Making French Toast?

The most common mistake is over-soaking the bread. Leaving the bread in the custard mixture for too long causes it to absorb too much liquid, resulting in soggy, mushy toast.

Other mistakes include:

Cooking on too high heat, which burns the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
Using bread that is too fresh, which doesn’t hold up well during soaking.

Avoid these by using day-old bread, dipping quickly, and cooking over medium heat.

How to Dry Out Challah Bread for French Toast?

To dry out fresh challah for French toast:

Leave It Out: Slice the bread and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to air-dry.
Oven Method: Place slices on a baking sheet and bake at 250°F (120°C) for 5-10 minutes. This removes excess moisture without toasting the bread.

Dry bread soaks up the custard mixture more evenly, creating the perfect French toast texture.

What’s Better for French Toast, Brioche or Challah?

Both challah and brioche are excellent for French toast, but the choice depends on your preference:

Challah: Slightly lighter and less buttery, challah has a subtle sweetness and a sturdy texture, making it ideal for custardy French toast.
Brioche: Richer and softer due to its high butter content, brioche creates a more decadent French toast.

If you prefer a slightly sweet, airy texture, go for challah. For an ultra-rich and buttery result, opt for brioche. Either way, both deliver incredible French toast!

By addressing these common questions, you’ll have all the knowledge needed to master challah French toast—whether you’re making it fresh, preparing ahead, or adjusting for dietary needs.

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Conclusion

Why This Challah French Toast Recipe Will Be Your Favorite

This challah French toast recipe combines simplicity, flavor, and a touch of indulgence to create the ultimate breakfast experience. By using rich, eggy challah bread, you achieve the perfect balance of a crispy golden crust and a soft, custardy center. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings—whether it’s classic maple syrup and powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or indulgent options like Nutella and whipped cream.

Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weekend brunch, a special holiday breakfast, or just treating yourself on a slow morning, this recipe guarantees success every time. The careful attention to bread choice, soaking technique, and cooking method ensures a flawless texture and irresistible flavor. Once you try this challah French toast, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite that you’ll make again and again, bringing comfort, flavor, and joy to your mornings.