Name: Honey French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 4 thick slices brioche bread; 3 large eggs; 3/4 cup whole milk; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 3 tablespoons butter for frying; Powdered sugar for dusting; 1/4 cup honey for drizzling; Fresh raspberries for garnish

Stack of golden French toast with powdered sugar and honey drizzle | lonerecipes.com

I first encountered this Honey French Toast at a small bed and breakfast in Vermont during maple season. The innkeeper had her own twist: using local honey instead of maple syrup, which was unexpected but absolutely divine. When I returned home, I was determined to recreate that experience. After several attempts, I perfected this version that has all the elements I loved - the golden caramelization, the custardy center, and that perfect hint of cinnamon. I particularly love using brioche for its buttery flavor and ability to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart. The honey drizzle creates these amazing little pools on top that seep into each bite, making every mouthful a perfect combination of textures and sweetness. This has become my signature breakfast dish for houseguests and holiday mornings.

Why I love this recipe

I love this Honey French Toast recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. There's something magical about the moment when bread soaked in custard hits a hot buttered pan and begins to transform. The sizzle, the golden color developing, and that incredible aroma filling the kitchen - it's a multisensory experience that signals the start of a wonderful day. What makes this version special to me is the honey drizzle, which adds a floral sweetness that's more complex and interesting than standard maple syrup. I also appreciate how versatile this recipe is; you can dress it up with fresh berries and cream for company or keep it simple for a comforting weekday breakfast. It's one of those dishes that makes everyone at the table feel cared for and special, yet it doesn't require hours in the kitchen or professional skills. To me, that's the hallmark of a truly great recipe - something that brings joy both in the making and in the sharing.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

Brioche bread: Provides a rich, buttery base that soaks up the custard beautifully
Eggs: Create the custard base and help the exterior caramelize
Whole milk: Adds richness to the custard mixture
Honey: Offers a floral sweetness that pairs beautifully with the custard
Raspberries: Provide tart contrast to the sweet French toast
Cinnamon: Adds warm spice notes that complement the honey

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the custard: In a wide, shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until completely combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy - this ensures even flavor distribution throughout your French toast.
Soak the bread: Place your thick brioche slices in the custard mixture, allowing them to soak for 30 seconds per side. You want the bread to absorb the mixture but still maintain its structure. If the bread is too soft or fresh, it might fall apart, which is why day-old bread works perfectly.
Heat your pan: Melt butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat until it begins to foam but not brown. The foaming tells you it's at the perfect temperature to create that golden exterior without burning.
Cook to perfection: Place the soaked bread in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and caramelized. You'll know it's ready to flip when the edges look set and the bottom is a rich golden color. Add fresh butter between batches for the best flavor.
Garnish and serve: Transfer your French toast to serving plates, dust generously with powdered sugar, drizzle with honey, and add fresh raspberries. Serve immediately while still warm for the best experience.

Recipe picture — Delicious brunch recipe of custard-soaked bread with berries and honey | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

I discovered this French toast recipe during a particularly cold winter morning when I was craving something warm and comforting. I had some brioche that was a day old and decided to transform it into something special. The first time I made it, I used maple syrup, but when I tried it with honey, the flavor profile completely changed - it became more floral and delicate. Now I always keep thick-cut brioche in my freezer, ready to make this whenever guests come over. The look on their faces when I bring out the stack of golden toast with honey dripping down the sides is absolutely priceless!

Perfect Pairings

This Honey French Toast pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments to create a complete brunch experience. Serve alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a savory contrast to the sweet toast. A side of fresh fruit salad with seasonal berries and citrus adds refreshing acidity. For beverages, consider a bold coffee with notes of caramel to complement the honey, or a mimosa made with fresh orange juice for special occasions. If you're looking for a healthier balance, Greek yogurt with a drizzle of the same honey creates a harmonious plate with varying textures and consistent flavors.

Fluffy French toast squares with fresh raspberries and sweet honey | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare the custard mixture the night before?: Yes, you can prepare the egg custard mixture the night before and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using it the next morning to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
→ What's the best bread to use for French toast?: Brioche is ideal due to its buttery flavor and sturdy texture, but challah, Texas toast, or sourdough also work well. The key is using slightly stale bread that's cut thick (about 3/4 to 1-inch) to absorb the custard without falling apart.
→ Can I freeze leftover French toast?: Absolutely! Cool the French toast completely, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1 hour. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F until warm throughout.
→ What can I substitute for honey?: Maple syrup is the classic alternative, but agave nectar, date syrup, or fruit compote would all work beautifully. Each will bring a different flavor profile to the dish while maintaining the necessary sweetness.
→ Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?: Yes, substitute the whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for frying. These substitutions maintain the richness while making the recipe dairy-free.

Conclusion

This Honey French Toast is the ultimate weekend breakfast treat that combines simplicity with gourmet flavor. The golden, caramelized exterior gives way to a soft, custard-like interior that melts in your mouth. Topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar and drizzled with honey, it strikes the perfect balance of sweetness. Add fresh raspberries for a bright, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness. Whether for a special occasion brunch or a cozy family breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.