Pain Perdu
French Toast
An elegant and delicious way to use up slightly stale brioche, pain perdu translates to 'lost bread'. Thick slices of brioche are soaked in a rich custard and then pan-fried to a beautiful golden-brown, resulting in a custardy interior and a slightly crisp exterior.
🧂 Ingredients
- 8 thick slices (about 1.5-2 cm or 3/4 inch thick) Brioche bread(Slightly stale brioche works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy.)
- 3 Large eggs
- 200 ml Whole milk(You can substitute with half-and-half for a richer custard.)
- 3 tbsp Granulated sugar(Adjust to your sweetness preference.)
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract(Pure vanilla extract is recommended for best flavor.)
- 2-3 tbsp Unsalted butter(For frying. You can also use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil.)
- for dusting Powdered sugar(Optional, for serving.)
- for serving Fresh berries or fruit compote(Optional.)
- for serving Maple syrup or honey(Optional.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the custard: In a shallow dish or pie plate large enough to fit a slice of brioche, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined and the sugar is mostly dissolved. The mixture should be smooth and evenly colored.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 2
Soak the brioche: Gently place 1-2 slices of brioche into the custard mixture. Let them soak for about 30-60 seconds per side, or until they have absorbed a good amount of the custard but are still firm enough to handle without falling apart. The exact time will depend on the freshness and thickness of your bread. Repeat with the remaining brioche slices, adding more slices to the dish as needed.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Heat the pan: Place a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat (around 175°C / 350°F). Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt and coat the bottom of the pan. The butter should sizzle gently, not brown too quickly.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Fry the pain perdu: Carefully place the soaked brioche slices into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, until each side is a deep golden-brown and the custard inside is cooked through and creamy. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
⏱️ 6-8 minutes - 5
Serve: Transfer the cooked pain perdu to a plate. Dust generously with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately with fresh berries, fruit compote, maple syrup, or honey.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using slightly stale bread is key, as fresh bread can become too mushy when soaked.
- ✓Do not oversoak the brioche; it should be saturated but still hold its shape.
- ✓Cook over medium heat to ensure the custard cooks through without burning the exterior.
- ✓For an even richer flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Spread a thin layer of Nutella on one slice of brioche before soaking and frying.
- Serve with a warm fruit compote (e.g., mixed berry or apple).
- Add a splash of orange zest to the custard for a citrusy note.