Description
A warm and indulgent breakfast featuring thick-cut brioche soaked in a maple bourbon custard, served with crispy bacon for a perfect sweet and salty balance.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah (day-old bread works best)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (Grade A amber recommended)
- 2 tablespoons good-quality bourbon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus extra for the pan)
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon (can substitute turkey bacon)
Instructions
- Place bacon slices in a cold skillet and turn heat to medium. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crispy. Remove bacon and drain on a cooling rack or paper towels. Keep the bacon fat in the pan for toasting the French toast if desired.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and slightly frothy.
- Dip each slice of brioche or challah into the custard, soaking for 15-20 seconds per side without letting the bread fall apart.
- Warm 1 tablespoon butter (or reserved bacon fat) in a large skillet over medium heat until hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact.
- Place soaked bread slices in the hot pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Serve immediately with crispy bacon on the side and drizzle extra maple syrup over the top. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
Use day-old brioche or challah for best custard absorption without sogginess. Medium heat is key to avoid burning while cooking through. For crispier bacon, finish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to two days and reheated gently to maintain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice French toast
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 28
- Protein: 10
Keywords: French toast, maple bourbon, bacon, breakfast, brunch, easy recipe, cozy breakfast, bourbon French toast