Name: Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 3/4 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch of salt; 4 cups cornflakes; 8 thick slices Brioche or Challah bread; Unsalted butter, for cooking; Maple syrup; Powdered sugar; Berries

There’s something irresistibly joyful about biting into French toast that’s crisped to perfection on the outside yet tender and custardy on the inside—especially when it’s coated in crunchy cornflakes. This Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe transforms a classic breakfast into a fun, textured experience that’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress anyone you’re serving.

Two thick pieces of crunchy golden-brown French toast stacked on a white plate, topped with fresh red strawberries, red raspberries, and dark blue blueberries. A woman's hand is pouring syrup from a white pitcher over the fruit, with syrup flowing softly. The toast has a crispy, crumbly texture on the outside. Some powdered sugar is sprinkled over the fruit and toast, and extra berries are placed on the plate. A silver fork sits on the right side of the plate, all set on a white marbled surface with a folded cloth beneath the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’ve always been a sucker for French toast, but adding that crisp cornflake coating? Game changer. It’s the perfect way to elevate your morning routine with something both nostalgic and exciting. Plus, it’s easier than you think to pull off!

Delicious Texture: Cornflakes add a fantastic crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread inside.
Simple Ingredients: You probably have everything you need right in your pantry and fridge.
Kid-Friendly: This fun twist on French toast tends to be a hit with kids and adults alike—they love the crunch!
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the coated slices in advance and cook them fresh or keep them warm in the oven.

A stack of three pieces of golden brown crispy toast is placed in the center of a round white plate. The toast is topped with fresh berries including red strawberries, bright red raspberries, and deep blue blueberries, which add vibrant colors and a juicy texture. Powdered sugar is lightly dusted over the toast and berries, giving a soft white contrast. Around the base of the toast, a few berries spill onto the plate. A vintage golden fork lies on the right side of the plate. The plate sits on a light-colored checkered cloth with a white marbled texture background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

The magic of this Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe lies in the harmonious play between the creamy custard soak and the cornflakes' crunch. Choosing quality basics makes a huge difference here, especially the bread and the milk.

Flat lay of large brown eggs, a glass of whole milk, a small bottle of vanilla extract, a pile of golden cornflakes, thick slices of rich brioche bread, a pat of creamy unsalted butter, a jar of amber maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and vibrant mixed berries including blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Eggs: They’re the star of the custard, giving structure and richness—make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor.
Whole Milk: Full-fat milk gives the custard a creamy texture that’s more indulgent than skim or plant-based alternatives.
Vanilla Extract: A little vanilla adds sweetness and warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
Ground Cinnamon: Just a teaspoon adds a subtle spice that pairs perfectly with the sweet cornflakes.
Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors overall.
Cornflakes: Crushing them by hand keeps chunks intact for that perfect crunch without turning to dust.
Brioche or Challah Bread: Thick-cut, soft, buttery breads absorb the custard beautifully while holding up to the cornflake crust.
Unsalted Butter: For cooking, it browns nicely without adding extra saltiness, letting the bread and coating shine.
Maple Syrup, Powdered Sugar, and Berries: These toppings add sweetness, brightness, and a little elegance on the plate.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love mixing this recipe up depending on what’s in my pantry or what mood I’m in. Feel free to get creative with the bread or toppings—you can’t go wrong!

Variation: I sometimes swap the cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice during fall, which brings a lovely seasonal twist that guests adore.
Dietary Option: If dairy is a concern, almond or oat milk works fine, just keep in mind the custard won’t be as rich.
Extra Crunch: Mix crushed pecans or toasted coconut with the cornflakes for an even more decadent crust.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Whisk Together Your Custard

Start by cracking your eggs into a shallow dish. Add the whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt, then whisk everything together until smooth. I always whisk a little longer than I think I need to—it really helps the cinnamon distribute evenly, so every bite has that lovely spice.

Step 2: Crush Cornflakes with Your Hands

Pour your cornflakes into a large bowl and gently crush them with your hands. You want a mix of small pieces and tiny clusters—not a fine powder. This unevenness is key for that perfect crunchy texture. It also makes the coating stick better to the bread.

Step 3: Dip the Bread & Coat in Cornflakes

Take a thick slice of brioche or challah and dip it into the custard mixture, covering both sides but not soaking it too long—about 5 seconds per side. Then press each side firmly into the crushed cornflakes, coating every inch. Place coated slices on a baking tray while you repeat. I like using a tray so I can get all my slices ready before cooking.

Step 4: Cook Until Golden & Crunchy

Melt a good knob of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat or preheat an electric griddle to 350°F if you have one. Cook the French toast for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until beautifully golden brown and crisp. Don’t rush this part! Patience pays off with that perfect crust that doesn’t burn but gets delightfully crunchy.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Serve your crunchy masterpiece with a dusting of powdered sugar, fresh berries, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Watching friends or family enjoy this is truly one of my favorite morning moments.

Top Tip

Over the years, I’ve figured out a few tricks that really help this Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe shine and come together smoothly. These tips will save you time and frustration in the kitchen.

Keep the custard shallow: A shallow dish lets you dip bread slices easily without over-soaking, preventing sogginess.
Press the cornflakes firmly: Gently but firmly press the coating onto both sides so it sticks while cooking.
Use thick bread slices: Thick slices hold the custard better and carry the cornflake crust without falling apart.
Cook on medium heat: Too hot and the crust burns before the inside cooks; too low and you lose that golden crunch.

How to Serve Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe

Cornflake French Toast - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I always keep it classic with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries. The berries add a pop of color and light tartness that balances the sweet crunch nicely. Sometimes, I add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for an extra touch.

Side Dishes

To make a full breakfast feast, I like pairing this crunchy delight with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage and a simple green salad to add freshness. A fruit salad or smoothie also complements the richness well.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served these slices stacked like little towers, with layers of berries and whipped cream between. It’s fun, festive, and makes the breakfast table feel extra special. You can also cut each slice into sticks for easy dipping, turning it into a fun brunch finger food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I recommend layering parchment paper between slices to keep them from sticking together.

Freezing

This recipe freezes surprisingly well! Freeze single layers of cooled French toast on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. This way, you can reheat single servings whenever you like, perfect for busy mornings.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to keep the crust crisp. I avoid microwaving because it tends to make the cornflake coating soggy, which defeats the point!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other cereals instead of cornflakes for this French toast?

Absolutely! While cornflakes offer a classic crunch, cereals like crushed Rice Krispies, bran flakes, or even granola can make interesting alternatives. Just make sure the pieces aren’t too big to stick well to the bread.

What’s the best bread for Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe?

Brioche and challah are ideal because of their soft texture and slight sweetness, which soak up the custard beautifully and hold the crunchy coating well. Thick slices are best for that perfect balance.

How do I keep the cornflake coating from falling off during cooking?

Pressing the cornflakes firmly onto both sides of the custard-soaked bread is key. Also, don’t flip the toast too early or too often—it needs time to form a golden crust to hold the flakes in place. Cooking on medium heat helps too.

Can I prepare the coated slices ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and coat the French toast slices ahead, then cover and refrigerate them. Cook them fresh in a hot pan or on a griddle for best texture right before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Crunchy Cornflake French Toast Recipe has become my go-to way to make weekend mornings feel extra cozy and a little special. There’s just something so satisfying about that crispy, buttery crunch paired with soft, sweet bread soaked in custard. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—your kitchen and your taste buds will thank you!