Classic French Toast Recipe: Crispy Outside, Custardy Inside

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s famous French toast went viral a few years ago. I’ve made it several times and it’s one of my favorite breakfasts. It’s his go-to cheat meal for a reason: rich, sweet, filling and absolutely delicious. Save it for a special morning — Christmas, a birthday, or a kids’ day off — and it won’t disappoint.

Ingredient List for the Ultimate French Toast

• Brioche loaf — soft, pillowy bread works best for a sweet, decadent French toast.
• Heavy whipping cream — used in both the custard and the whipped cream.
• Powdered sugar — sweetens the whipped cream without graininess.
• Vanilla extract — adds warm, aromatic flavor to the whipped cream.
• Whole milk — the liquid base for the custard.
• Egg yolks — create a rich, velvety custard.
• Sugar — sweetens the custard.
• Cinnamon — warms the flavor of the custard.
• Seasoning (optional) — a maple bourbon rub or similar seasoning adds savory balance and depth to the custard.

Step 1: How to make homemade whipped cream

This whipped cream is simple and far superior to store-bought. Few ingredients and only minutes to prepare.

In a mixing bowl combine 1 cup heavy whipping cream, 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat on high with a mixer until thick peaks form. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve.

Step 2: Make the French toast custard

This custard is where the magic starts. It smells amazing and delivers a perfect balance of sweet and savory once cooked.

In a large bowl whisk together 4 egg yolks, 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream, 1 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. If you like, stir in a tablespoon of a maple-bourbon style rub or another seasoning to add depth and balance to the sweetness.

Slice your brioche into thick pieces (2-inch slices are ideal). If using very thick slices, poke small holes with a fork so the custard penetrates more deeply. For pre-sliced brioche, dunk each slice into the custard, coating both sides thoroughly. Transfer the soaked slices to a sheet pan; pour any leftover custard over them.

Step 3: Grill up some French toast

This French toast is perfect cooked on a griddle, but a stovetop cast iron skillet or nonstick pan works just as well. Preheat the griddle or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter or oil to prevent sticking. Cook the soaked slices 1–2 minutes per side, flipping once the bottoms are lightly browned.

To serve, top with a generous spoonful of the homemade whipped cream, drizzle with maple syrup, and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy immediately.

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