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Easy Cajun Pain Perdu: Custardy Brioche French Toast at Home

Emilie Sepcich
Aug 14
3 min read

Updated: Aug 19

There’s something about the flavors of French toast that instantly feels like home in the French Cajun kitchen. In Louisiana, where French influence meets Southern charm, breakfast is more than just a meal, it’s a warm gathering of family and tradition. Sweet, custardy breads, rich creams, and a touch of spice have long been part of Cajun comfort food, echoing the French heritage that inspired this dish.

This brioche French toast has been a part of my mornings for as long as I can remember. I first started making it when I was just 14 years old, experimenting in my moms kitchen and soaking up the joy of creating something warm and inviting for everyone to share. Over the years, I’ve refined it into the recipe you’ll find here today; rich, buttery, and always just a little indulgent.

The soft, pillowy brioche captures that je ne sais quoi of French pastries, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring the cozy spice you’d expect from a Southern breakfast table. Every bite reminds me why this recipe has stayed with me all these years. It is simple, comforting, and brings a taste of tradition to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Brioche French Toast (Pain Perdu)

Rich and Custardy – The heavy cream and eggs create a luxurious, soft center.
Golden and Crisp – Each slice cooks to a perfectly caramelized, golden-brown crust.
Full of Cozy Flavor – Cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar give every bite that warm, comforting taste.
Quick and Easy – Simple steps, minimal prep, and ready in under 30 minutes.
Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for slow weekend mornings, holiday breakfasts, or an impressive brunch for guests.

How To

Prepare the custard: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, and half stick of butter. Microwave for about 1 minute, just until the butter melts and your kitchen starts to smell warm and buttery. This creamy base will give your French toast that signature custard texture.

Cool and whisk: Carefully pour the warm mixture into a large mixing bowl. Give it a minute or two to cool, just enough so your eggs won’t scramble when added. Whisk in the eggs and light brown sugar, and watch as the sugar dissolves into a golden, glossy custard.

Add cozy flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract, pinch of salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until the mixture is silky, slightly frothy, and smells like the holidays. Taste the aroma, this is where the magic begins.

Heat the skillet: Warm a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop in 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt until bubbly and fragrant. You’re looking for that soft sizzle that promises a golden crust.

Dip the brioche: Slice your brioche into thick 1-inch slices; the fluffier, the better. Dip each slice into the custard for 10–20 seconds per side, just until the bread soaks up a coat of that luscious mixture. Let any excess drip off; you want your bread moist, not soggy.

Cook to golden perfection: Gently lay the custard-coated brioche onto the hot skillet. Listen to the soft sizzle as it hits the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, turning carefully once, until each slice is golden brown with a delicate, crisp edge. Add another small pat of butter between batches for that rich, caramelized flavor.

Serve with love: Transfer your French toast to a plate and serve warm. Drizzle with maple syrup, top with fresh berries, and finish with a dusting of powdered sugar. Take a bite while it’s still warm and enjoy the soft, custardy center and buttery, spiced crust, pure breakfast bliss.

This Brioche French toast is simple enough for a lazy Saturday but elegant enough to serve for brunch with friends or holiday mornings. Once you try it, it might just become your new weekend tradition!