Earl Grey Custard French Toast: A Cozy Twist on Breakfast

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

There s something undeniably enticing about the delicate fragrance of Earl Grey tea mixed with buttery brioche. This Earl Grey Custard French Toast is more than just breakfast; it s a way to elevate your morning routine into a delightful experience. I discovered this delicious twist on a classic while searching for a way to revive my love for brunch at home not just for special occasions, but for any day that deserves a little indulgence.

Imagine sinking your fork into fluffy brioche, perfectly soaked in a creamy Earl Grey custard, and topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of fresh blackberries. With each bite, you ll find the warmth of nostalgia mixed with a modern flair it s simply irresistible! Whether you re trying to impress weekend guests or simply treat yourself, this recipe is your key to transforming a routine breakfast into a moment of pure joy. Let s dive into the details and make this enchanting dish come to life!

Why is Earl Grey Custard French Toast special?

Irresistible aroma: The soothing fragrance of Earl Grey tea infuses the brioche with a unique twist that elevates your breakfast experience.

Decadently simple: This recipe combines basic ingredients with little effort, making it easy to whip up any day of the week.

Customizable toppings: Top with whipped cream, homemade blackberry jam, or slivered almonds to cater to your taste buds and impress your guests.

Soul-warming comfort: This dish brings a cozy feeling to your table, perfect for lazy weekends or special brunch gatherings.

A crowd-pleaser: Serve this gourmet toast to friends and family and watch as they savor each delightful bite no one can resist its charm!

For more brunch inspirations, check out my favorite brunch recipes.

Earl Grey Custard French Toast Ingredients

For the Custard
Whole milk 360 ml adds a rich creaminess to the custard.
Earl Grey tea bags 4 bags infuse the milk with a beautifully aromatic flavor.
Large eggs 4 contribute to the custard s silky texture and structure.
Vanilla extract 2 teaspoons enhance the overall sweetness and depth of flavor.

For the French Toast
Brioche bread 8 slices are perfect for soaking up that luxurious Earl Grey custard.
Unsalted butter 4 tablespoons ensure that each slice fries up golden and delicious.

Optional Toppings
Whipped cream This adds a light and airy finish to your delectable toast.
Homemade blackberry jam Elevates flavors with a tart sweetness that complements the tea.
Fresh blackberries Add a burst of juice and color for a beautiful presentation.
Toasted slivered almonds Provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your dish.

Elevate your mornings with this Earl Grey Custard French Toast a recipe that brings warmth and joy to your breakfast table!

How to Make Earl Grey Custard French Toast

1. Heat the Milk: In a medium heavy-based saucepan, add the milk and Earl Grey tea bags. Warm over medium heat until simmering, watching for bubbles at the edges. Remove from heat after simmering and steep the tea bags for 15 minutes; squeeze them gently before discarding for full flavor.

2. Whisk Together: In a medium bowl, combine the infused milk with the eggs and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully mixed and smooth, ensuring the comforting hints of Earl Grey are well blended with the eggs.

3. Soak the Brioche: Place half of the brioche slices in a large baking pan. Pour half of the Earl Grey custard mixture over the bread slices, allowing it to soak for 2 minutes. Turn them over and let soak for another 2 minutes to absorb that delicious custard.

4. Fry to Perfection: Heat a large fry pan on medium heat, adding a tablespoon of butter until melted. Carefully add the soaked bread slices and fry for about 3 minutes, or until the underside is golden brown. Flip the slices, adding more butter if needed, and fry for another 3 minutes until both sides are perfectly golden. Adjust the heat if needed to prevent burning.

5. Repeat the Process: Continue soaking and frying the remaining brioche slices with the other half of the custard mixture, using an extra tablespoon of butter before starting the second batch for the best results.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Dish out your warm French toast with beautiful toppings like freshly whipped cream, tangy homemade blackberry jam, fresh blackberries, and a sprinkle of toasted slivered almonds for that gourmet touch.

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of maple syrup for an extra sweet finish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Earl Grey Custard French Toast slices are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the custard mixture (milk, eggs, and vanilla) and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld. Additionally, you can soak the brioche slices in the custard, placing them in a baking pan, and cover it tightly it will keep fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. To maintain quality, ensure they are sealed well to avoid drying out. When ready to cook, simply heat your pan and fry each slice as directed for deliciously crisp results, making your brunch stress-free and enjoyable!

Earl Grey Custard French Toast Variations

Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dish your own each twist brings something new to the table!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk for a lighter, lactose-free option that still delivers creaminess.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon to the custard mixture for a warm, invigorating flavor that brightens each bite. It s a subtle change that can really elevate your morning!

• Nutty Flavor: Swap in a splash of hazelnut or almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist that beautifully complements the Earl Grey.

• Fruit-Infused: Replace the blackberry jam with homemade strawberry or raspberry jam, bringing a fresh tartness that pairs perfectly with the tea s floral notes.

• Chocolate Lovers: Sprinkle in some mini chocolate chips before soaking the brioche for a rich, indulgent variation that s perfect for chocolate enthusiasts.

• Savory Version: For a surprising twist, add some crumbled feta cheese and sautéed spinach after frying for a savory take that s perfect for brunch.

• Thicker Brioche: Use a challah bread instead of brioche for a heartier, slightly sweet flavor. This change yields a wonderfully fluffy texture that holds the custard beautifully.

• Seasonal Spice: In autumn, infuse the milk with pumpkin spice to capture that cozy, fall flavor each bite will feel like a warm hug!

No matter how you choose to customize, each adaptation keeps the heart of the French toast while offering delightful surprises. Enjoy the journey in your kitchen!

What to Serve with Earl Grey Custard French Toast?

Elevate your breakfast experience with delightful pairings that balance flavors, textures, and aromas.

• Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet and soothing custard. A savory addition that everyone adores.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of strawberries, melons, and citrus brings a refreshing brightness that enhances the Earl Grey flavor. The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully!

• Maple Syrup: Add a drizzle of pure maple syrup for an extra sweet touch that complements the tea-infused French toast. It s the classic touch everyone loves!

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt adds a tangy flip to the dish, balancing the sweetness while offering a rich texture.

• Coffee or Espresso: A cup of strong coffee or a smooth espresso provides a delightful bitterness alongside the French toast, rounding out the breakfast experience.

• Chai Tea: For tea lovers, a warm cup of chai offers a spice contrast to the floral notes of Earl Grey. It creates a comforting and aromatic pairing that warms the soul.

• Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted slivered almonds on top for added crunch and nutty flavor. This elevates the dish while providing a satisfying texture contrast.

• Homemade Jam: Serve with homemade blackberry or raspberry jam to amplify the fruitiness. The sweet-tart notes will perfectly balance the creamy richness of your French toast!

How to Store and Freeze Earl Grey Custard French Toast

Room Temperature: Enjoy freshly made French toast right away for the best flavor and texture. If left at room temperature, consume within 2 hours.

Fridge: Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a touch of butter for extra moisture.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing taste.

Reheating: To enjoy the frozen Earl Grey Custard French Toast, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the toaster or oven to restore that delightful crispness.

Expert Tips for Earl Grey Custard French Toast

• Steeping Time Matters: Let the Earl Grey tea bags steep for the full 15 minutes to unlock the deepest flavor, enhancing your custard s taste.

• Watch the Heat: Fry on medium heat and adjust if the bread browns too quickly. Burning can ruin the delicate flavor of your Earl Grey Custard French Toast.

• Soaking is Key: Soak the brioche slices well; a proper soak allows the custard to permeate the bread, creating that signature creamy center.

• Butter Up: Use enough unsalted butter in the pan. A golden crust comes from an adequate layer of butter, so don t skimp!

• Get Creative Toppings: Experiment with toppings like flavored syrups or seasonal fruits to add a personal touch to your French toast experience.

Earl Grey Custard French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of brioche bread should I use?
I recommend using a high-quality, rich brioche bread that is soft and fluffy. Look for a brioche that has a golden crust and a light, airy texture. It should be fresh, as stale brioche may not soak up the custard as effectively and could result in a denser texture.

How do I store leftover French toast?
Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. For the best reheating experience, warm them on the stovetop with a little butter or pop them in the microwave for a quick treat.

Can I freeze Earl Grey Custard French Toast?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. You ll find they stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat them in a toaster or the oven for that lovely, crispy finish.

What if my French toast is soggy?
If the French toast ends up soggy, it might be that it soaked too long or was not cooked on high enough heat. Ensure you soak the brioche for just about 2 minutes on each side and use medium heat while frying. To salvage, you can always throw it into a hot pan again for a minute or two to crisp it back up.

Can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can make this dish lactose-free by using a plant-based milk alternative and omitting the butter, or replacing it with a dairy-free alternative. For eggless options, consider using a flaxseed or chia seed mixture as a custard binder 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg, let it sit for about 5 minutes until and it will create a gel-like consistency!

How can I make my Earl Grey Custard French Toast more flavorful?
To amplify flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard mixture. Pairing it with seasonal ingredients like fresh berries or a drizzle of honey can also enhance the taste experience significantly!