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Denny’s French Toast recipe

Denny's French Toast recipe - recipe card

This recipe recreates the classic Denny’s French Toast at home: thick, custardy inside with a beautifully golden, buttery-crisp crust. Each slice is soft and rich, perfectly absorbing vanilla and cinnamon flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 slices thick-cut brioche or Texas toast (1-inch thick)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • Optional: maple syrup, fresh berries, or powdered sugar for serving

Instructions

  1. In a wide, shallow dish (such as a pie plate or 9×13 baking dish), whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until completely smooth and no streaks of egg white remain. The mixture should be a uniformly pale tan color.
  2. Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt, swirling the pan to coat the surface. When the butter stops foaming and just begins to take on a light nutty aroma, the pan is ready. Avoid letting the butter brown.
  3. Working in batches (2-3 slices at a time), dip each bread slice into the custard for about 10-15 seconds per side. Press lightly to saturate without letting the bread become soggy. The bread should absorb the custard but still hold its shape when lifted.
  4. Immediately place the soaked slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the bottom is deep golden brown and the edges feel set. Flip carefully with a thin spatula and cook the second side for another 2-3 minutes, until equally golden.
  5. Transfer cooked French toast to a wire rack set over a baking sheet to keep the exterior crisp. Repeat with remaining butter and slices. Serve immediately while hot, with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Freezing: Freeze cooled French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat: Warm frozen slices on a baking sheet at 350°F (177°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping once, or toast in a toaster until hot and crisp. Avoid microwave reheating, which makes the bread soggy.

Nutrition

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