12 Breads That Make The Best French Toast Ever
The secret to unforgettable French toast starts with the bread. You want slices that soak up custard without falling apart and crisp up into golden perfection.
Whether you’re after pillowy soft or a little chewy with crunch, the right loaf makes all the difference.
These 12 breads are perfect for bringing that crispy-outside, creamy-inside magic to your morning table.
1. Brioche
This rich, buttery bread is practically made for French toast. Its delicate crumb soaks in the custard like a sponge but never gets soggy.
Once pan-fried, it turns golden and crisp while staying soft inside. Add powdered sugar or berries and you’re in breakfast heaven.
2. Challah
With its eggy interior and glossy crust, challah delivers a sturdy slice that fries up beautifully without losing tenderness.
Its natural sweetness pairs perfectly with maple syrup or a dusting of cinnamon. Thick-cut slices make for an especially decadent bite.
3. Texas Toast
Extra-thick and soft, Texas toast holds its shape while absorbing loads of custard. It’s hearty enough to crisp up on the outside without getting limp.
Its neutral flavor makes it a blank canvas for syrup, fruit compote, or a savory twist.
4. French Bread
A slightly crusty exterior and dense interior give French bread the right mix of chew and soak.
When sliced thick and soaked well, it transforms into a rustic version of French toast with texture in every bite.
5. Sourdough
Tangy and chewy, sourdough adds complexity and a little bite to your French toast game.
The firm crumb resists sogginess, while the sour notes balance the sweetness of syrup or fruit toppings.
6. Cinnamon Swirl Bread
Already spiced and sweet, this bread brings big flavor before it even hits the pan.
The sugar melts and caramelizes at the edges, creating toasty little pockets of cinnamon-crunch throughout.
7. Potato Bread
Soft, pillowy, and just a little sweet, potato bread has the ideal squish factor for rich, custardy French toast.
Its slight density helps it brown evenly, making each bite feel like a warm, creamy treat.
8. Croissants
Flaky layers and buttery richness make croissants a luxurious choice for French toast.
Slice them in half and soak briefly to avoid sogginess, then cook until crisp and golden—light and luscious every time.
9. Italian Bread
Mild and slightly chewy, Italian bread handles a good soak without falling apart.
Its wide slices cook up evenly, giving you a golden crust and a custardy center perfect for big brunch platters.
10. Baguette
Thin slices of day-old baguette make crisp-edged, chewy-centered French toast with an artisanal feel.
Its firm crust holds up under custard, making it ideal for smaller, snack-style portions or a French toast “board.”
11. Hawaiian Bread
This soft, slightly sweet bread is perfect for dessert-style French toast loaded with fruit or chocolate drizzle.
It browns beautifully in the pan and brings a tropical twist to the table with no extra effort.
12. English Muffin Bread
With a dense texture and lots of nooks and crannies, this bread holds onto every drop of eggy custard.
The result is a crisp edge with pockets of softness inside—perfect for those who like contrast in every bite.
