Valentines Breakfast Cinnamon French Toast

Name: Valentines Breakfast Cinnamon French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 4 slices of brioche or thick bread; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp sugar; Pinch of salt; Butter for cooking; Powdered sugar; Maple syrup; Fresh berries (optional)

Highlighted under: Special Planning

I love starting special mornings with a decadent dish that sets the mood, and nothing does this better than Valentine's Breakfast Cinnamon French Toast. This delightful recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon with the richness of French toast, making it perfect for celebrating love. I enjoy adding a dash of vanilla and a sprinkle of powdered sugar to elevate it even further. Pair it with fresh berries or maple syrup, and you've got a breakfast that will make anyone feel cherished and adored.

Created by

Jemima Fox

Last updated on 2026-01-12T02:41:34.752Z

When I first made Valentine's Breakfast Cinnamon French Toast, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create such a blissful experience. I decided to experiment with flavored bread, and choosing a brioche truly took the dish to the next level. The fluffy texture, combined with the custardy inside, is just divine!

As I perfected this recipe, I learned that letting the bread soak long enough is key—it ensures each slice absorbs the egg mixture fully, resulting in a beautifully golden crust on the outside and a soft center. Don't forget the finishing touch: a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar right before serving!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fluffy and custardy texture that melts in your mouth
Delicious blend of warm cinnamon flavors
Perfect dish for a romantic morning together

      

Mastering the Custard

The custard base is crucial for achieving that perfect French toast texture. Whisk the eggs until they're pale and frothy before adding the milk; this aerates the mixture, contributing to a fluffier toast. Incorporating the vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile, adding a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon. If you want a richer custard, try adding a splash of cream in place of some milk for an indulgent twist.

For the spices, make sure to use ground cinnamon rather than cinnamon sugar; the former ensures you have a balanced flavor without an overpowering sweetness. Additionally, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, spiced undertone. Remember to taste the custard before soaking the bread; this way, you can adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Cooking Tips for Perfect French Toast

When it comes to cooking the French toast, low and slow is the name of the game. Set your skillet to medium heat and allow it to preheat for a few minutes before adding butter—this prevents sticking and ensures even browning. You want to look for a golden color on the edges, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. If you find your toast browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low to prevent burning while ensuring a well-cooked interior.

Properly soaking the bread is also vital. Ensure that each slice is thoroughly coated in the custard while maintaining some structural integrity. Brioche or thick bread varieties offer a great texture, but if you're looking for a lighter option, challah works beautifully too. Just keep an eye on the soaking time; aim for 30 seconds per side to avoid soggy bread.

Ingredients

Gather everything you need for this delightful breakfast treat.

For the French Toast

4 slices of brioche or thick bread
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp sugar
Pinch of salt
Butter for cooking

For Serving

Powdered sugar
Maple syrup
Fresh berries (optional)

Make sure to serve this French toast warm for the best experience; top it with your favorite accompaniments!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect French toast.

Prepare the Custard

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of brioche into the egg mixture, allowing them to soak for about 30 seconds on each side.

Cook the French Toast

In a skillet over medium heat, melt a little butter. Once hot, add the soaked bread slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

Serve

Remove from the skillet, dust with powdered sugar, and serve with maple syrup and fresh berries if desired.

Enjoy your Valentine's breakfast with a side of love and sweet memories!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of romance, consider adding a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture or even a dollop of whipped cream on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your cinnamon French toast with fresh berries not only adds a burst of color but also introduces a refreshing tartness to complement the sweetness of the dish. I'd recommend strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, depending on your preference and availability. Feel free to toss them in a bit of sugar and lemon juice for a simple berry compote if you want to elevate this aspect further.

Drizzling warm maple syrup over the French toast adds a delightful sweetness, but consider brown sugar syrup for a richer flavor. For a touch of luxury, finish with a little whipped cream or crème fraîche for a decadent experience. Don't forget to present it beautifully—arranging the toast on a plate with berries and a dusting of powdered sugar creates an inviting breakfast display.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store any uneaten French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or a hot skillet for a couple of minutes on each side. This will help retain the crispy exterior while warming the inside. If you're making a larger batch, consider freezing slices separated by wax paper in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month; you can reheat directly from the freezer.

While the toasting method works well, another option is to bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This method is particularly effective if you're serving guests and need to warm multiple slices at once without the risk of overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! Challah or sourdough bread work wonderfully too, providing different textures and flavors.

→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Simply substitute the milk with almond milk or any plant-based milk of your choice, and use dairy-free butter for cooking.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard and soak the bread ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge and cook in the morning.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This French toast pairs well with crispy bacon, sausage, or even a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast.