Crispy Buttermilk French Toast Recipe for Golden Crunch

The perfect sweet breakfast or brunch for the whole family — crispy, crunchy, and flavored with buttermilk, cinnamon, and corn flakes. Top as you like for a delicious finish.

I love breakfast and brunch so much I’ll eat them any time of day. One of our family favorites is this crispy French toast. It’s straightforward, doesn’t require special tools, and is a hit with both kids and adults. This version keeps the classic flavor profile but adds a few tweaks — corn flakes for crunch and buttermilk for richness — so it’s quick, unique, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s an easy go-to for busy mornings and relaxed weekends alike.

What You Need To Make Crispy French Toast

This recipe doesn’t demand special equipment — just common kitchen tools most homes already have. I prefer simple recipes that don’t require fancy gadgets so anyone can make them easily.

Kitchen tools:

• Large skillet
• Shallow, wide bowls
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf finger rolls or another thick, soft white bread
• 4 cups corn flakes
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups buttermilk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Unsalted butter for the skillet
• Optional toppings: maple syrup, sliced fruit, whipped cream, powdered sugar

How To Make Crunchy French Toast

Buttermilk French toast is a breakfast favorite because it’s simple and delicious. This recipe outlines the basic method and offers easy swaps so you can customize it.

1. Place the corn flakes in a wide, shallow bowl and set aside. In a separate wide bowl whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until combined.
2. One at a time, dip a slice of finger roll (or thick white bread) into the egg mixture, letting excess drip back into the bowl.
3. Press the coated bread into the corn flakes, coating both sides thoroughly. Set each coated slice aside on a plate until all slices are ready.
4. Heat a large skillet over low–medium heat and add a knob of unsalted butter. When the butter has melted and is bubbling, add the prepared slices and cook until golden and crispy on the bottom, about 3–5 minutes.
5. Flip the slices and cook the other side until golden. Continue in batches until all slices are cooked.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings — maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit work wonderfully. Enjoy!

Enjoy!

Watch the recipe video below for a visual guide to the prep.

Common Buttermilk French Toast Questions

What are finger rolls? Do I have to use them?

Finger rolls are soft, thick white rolls sold in a loaf that you can pull apart into individual pieces. They’re often found in the bakery section. If you can’t find finger rolls, use a thick, pillowy white bread such as Texas Toast. Avoid dense whole-grain loaves — this recipe works best with a fluffy white bread.

How should I store leftover french toast?

Store leftovers in an airtight container or bag in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for about 20 seconds or pop slices into a toaster for 1–2 minutes to help restore crispness while warming them through.

Can I freeze buttermilk french toast?

Yes. Freeze cooked slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a toaster until warm and crisp, about 2–3 minutes depending on your toaster.

More Brunch Ideas

Classic Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

Blueberry White Chocolate Scones

Blackberry Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

Happy eating!

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