This vanilla bean French toast is a comforting breakfast classic made with rich custard-soaked brioche, pan-fried until golden, and finished with a simple homemade blueberry compote. It’s indulgent yet easy, perfect for relaxed mornings or special brunches when you want something impressive without complicated steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe keeps things simple while delivering deep, bakery-style flavor. The vanilla bean adds a fragrant warmth that elevates the custard, while the brioche creates a soft interior with crisp edges. The blueberry compote comes together quickly and adds a fresh, fruity contrast to the creamy toast. Everything is made with accessible ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the French Toast
1 loaf brioche bread, sliced into 1-inch-thick slices
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus additional butter for cooking
3 tablespoons white sugar
1/2 vanilla bean pod, split and seeds scraped
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 pinch salt

For the Blueberry Compote
1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Directions

Start by preparing the blueberry compote. In a small saucepan set over medium-high heat, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries burst and the mixture thickens. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Slice the brioche loaf into even 1-inch-thick slices and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, eggs, melted butter, sugar, vanilla bean seeds, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.

Brush the custard mixture generously over both sides of each slice of bread. Pour any remaining custard evenly between the slices on the baking sheet and allow the bread to absorb it fully without becoming soggy.

Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium-high heat and butter it well. Cook the soaked bread slices for about 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and lightly crisp on the outside.

Serve the French toast warm, topped with the blueberry compote and any additional preferred toppings.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

For a lighter version, replace half of the heavy cream with additional whole milk.
Use challah bread instead of brioche for a slightly less rich but equally delicious result.
Swap blueberries for strawberries, raspberries, or cherries in the compote.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard for a subtle spice variation.
Serve with sliced fresh fruit instead of compote for a simpler presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 180°C until warmed through. The blueberry compote can be refrigerated separately in a sealed jar for up to 7 days. Stir gently before reheating or serving cold.

FAQs

Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of brioche?

Thick-cut brioche works best, but sturdy bakery-style white bread can be used if sliced thickly.

Why should the bread be slightly stale?

Drier bread absorbs the custard better without falling apart, giving you a creamy center and crisp exterior.

Can I make the custard ahead of time?

Yes, the custard can be mixed and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance.

What if I don’t have a vanilla bean?

You can substitute with 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract or vanilla paste.

Is the blueberry compote optional?

Yes, the French toast is delicious on its own or with other toppings like syrup or fresh fruit.

Can I freeze cooked French toast?

Yes, allow slices to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before storing in freezer bags.

How do I prevent soggy French toast?

Avoid over-soaking the bread and use thick slices with a hot, well-buttered pan.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, the sugar can be reduced slightly without affecting texture.

What pan works best for cooking?

A cast iron skillet or flat griddle provides the best even browning.

Can this recipe be doubled?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and cook in batches.

Conclusion

This vanilla bean French toast delivers everything you want from a classic breakfast: rich flavor, comforting texture, and effortless preparation. Paired with the homemade blueberry compote, it feels special enough for guests yet easy enough for everyday mornings. Once you try it, this simple version is sure to become a regular favorite at your table.

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