Cornflake Crusted French Toast

There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sweet aroma of French toast sizzling on the stovetop. But if you want to take your classic breakfast favorite to the next level, this Cornflake Crusted French Toast is an absolute must-try. Imagine golden, crispy-crunchy cornflakes on the outside, with a soft, custardy center that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect balance of textures, making every bite an irresistible delight.

This recipe is inspired by classic diner-style French toast but with a fun and crispy twist. Cornflakes add that extra crunch, making it feel like a mix between traditional French toast and your favorite childhood cereal. Whether you’re making this for a lazy weekend brunch, a holiday morning treat, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly Crunchy & Golden – The cornflake coating creates an unbeatable crispy texture.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep time make this a breakfast win.
• Kid-Friendly & Fun – Kids love the crispy texture and slightly sweet flavor.
• Customizable – Add your favorite toppings, like fresh fruit, syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Great for Special Occasions – Impress your family or guests with this unique twist on classic French toast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 6 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah)
• 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
• 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)

How to Make Cornflake Crusted French Toast

Making this French toast is incredibly easy, and the results are restaurant-quality. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. This creates a rich custard that soaks into the bread, giving it that signature soft and flavorful interior.

Step 2: Crush the Cornflakes

Pour the cornflakes into a ziplock bag and lightly crush them with your hands or a rolling pin. You want them broken down but not too fine—small crunchy pieces are ideal for texture. Transfer them to a separate shallow dish.

Step 3: Coat the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are well-coated. Let any excess drip off, then press the bread into the crushed cornflakes, ensuring an even coating. Gently press down so the flakes stick well.

Step 4: Cook to Golden Perfection

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Once the butter is sizzling, place the coated bread slices in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with the remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate and serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Classic choices include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or even a dollop of whipped cream.

Helpful Tips for the Best Cornflake French Toast

• Use Thick Bread – Brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best because they soak up the custard without becoming soggy.
• Crush, But Don’t Pulverize – Keep some texture in the cornflakes for the best crunch.
• Let the Excess Custard Drip Off – This prevents the bread from becoming too wet, which can lead to uneven cooking.
• Cook Over Medium Heat – High heat may burn the cornflakes before the inside is fully cooked. Medium heat ensures a crispy exterior and a soft, custardy center.
• Keep Warm in the Oven – If making a large batch, place the cooked slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm while you finish cooking.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 3 servings
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• Cornflake Texture Matters – When crushing the cornflakes, aim for small, flaky pieces rather than fine crumbs. This will ensure a crispy, crunchy coating without becoming too powdery.
• Bread Thickness is Key – Thick-cut bread like brioche or challah works best for this recipe because it absorbs the custard while maintaining structure. Thin slices may become too soggy.
• Don’t Over-Soak the Bread – Dip the bread in the egg mixture just long enough to coat both sides. Letting it sit too long can make it too soft and difficult to handle.
• Butter vs. Oil – Butter gives the best flavor, but if you want an extra crispy texture, try using a mix of butter and a neutral oil (like canola or vegetable oil) to prevent burning.
• Make it Healthier – Use whole grain bread and a lower-sugar cereal alternative for a lighter version of this recipe.
• Topping Ideas – While maple syrup is a classic choice, try honey, Nutella, peanut butter, or even Greek yogurt with fruit for a fun twist.
• Batch Cooking Tip – If making for a crowd, cook the French toast in batches and keep them warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.
• Reheating for Best Texture – If you have leftovers, reheat them in a toaster oven or skillet rather than the microwave to maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cereal?

Yes! If you don’t have cornflakes, try crispy rice cereal or crushed graham crackers for a similar texture and crunch.

What’s the best bread for this recipe?

Brioche, challah, or Texas toast are ideal because they are thick and sturdy. Regular sandwich bread may be too thin and soft.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can make a batch and keep it warm in a 200°F oven for up to 30 minutes. Reheat leftovers in a toaster oven for the best texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes! Allow the cooked French toast to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet to restore crispiness.
• Freezer: Freeze cooked French toast in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 350°F.

Related Recipes

If you loved this crunchy French toast, you might also enjoy:

• Berry Croissant Bake
• Fried Strawberry Cheesecake Sandwiches
• French Toast Muffins
• Air Fryer Pizza Bombs – A Crispy, Cheesy Delight

Conclusion

Cornflake Crusted French Toast is the perfect way to elevate your breakfast game. The combination of a crispy golden exterior and a soft, custardy center makes it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch or just want to switch up your morning routine, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab some bread, whisk up that custard, and get ready to enjoy the crunchiest, most delicious French toast you’ve ever had!

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