Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe: The Best Copycat Guide

Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a crispy, buttery, and custardy breakfast classic. Known for its rich flavor and perfectly golden texture, this dish is a staple at Cracker Barrel restaurants. But what if you could make it at home?

This easy copycat recipe brings you the same thick-cut sourdough slices, creamy egg custard, and warm cinnamon flavor—all without leaving your kitchen! Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch or a cozy breakfast, this step-by-step guide will help you recreate the restaurant-quality taste in just a few simple steps.

Ready to enjoy the best homemade French toast? Let’s get started!

Ingredients Needed

Before diving into the cooking process, let’s go over everything you need to make this Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe at home. The secret to achieving that rich, custardy texture with a golden-brown crust lies in using the right ingredients.

Main Ingredients:

• Sourdough bread (4 slices) – Cracker Barrel typically uses thick-cut sourdough for its perfect balance of softness and structure.
• Eggs (3 large) – The base of the custard mixture, creating a rich texture.
• Milk (¾ cup) – Whole milk adds creaminess, though you can substitute with half-and-half for extra richness.
• Heavy cream (¼ cup) – This ingredient helps achieve the velvety texture Cracker Barrel’s French toast is known for.
• Sugar (2 tbsp) – Adds a slight sweetness to balance the flavors.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp) – Enhances the overall taste with warm, aromatic notes.
• Cinnamon (½ tsp) – A key ingredient that gives the French toast its signature flavor.
• Nutmeg (¼ tsp, optional) – Adds a subtle depth of flavor.
• Butter (for cooking) – Essential for achieving that perfect crispy, golden-brown crust.

Optional Toppings:

• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• Whipped cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to make the perfect Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe. Follow these simple steps to achieve that crispy outside, soft inside, and deliciously custardy texture just like the restaurant version.

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:

• Eggs
• Milk
• Heavy cream
• Sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg (optional)

Make sure everything is well combined to create a smooth and evenly mixed custard. This is key to achieving that signature rich, flavorful soak.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

Take your thick-cut sourdough slices and dip them into the custard mixture. Let each slice soak for about 15–20 seconds per side—just enough to absorb the flavors without becoming too soggy.

Pro Tip: If your bread is slightly stale, it will hold up better when soaking, preventing a mushy texture.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a generous amount of butter. Allow it to melt completely, coating the surface evenly. This helps create that golden-brown crispiness.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

• Carefully place each custard-soaked bread slice onto the heated pan.
• Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, flipping once, until the toast is golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
• If needed, add more butter to the pan before flipping to maintain that rich, buttery flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the freshly cooked French toast to a plate. Top with your favorite additions, such as:

• Warm maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries
• Whipped cream

Now, you’re ready to enjoy a homemade version of Cracker Barrel’s famous French toast—perfectly crispy, rich, and packed with flavor!

Pro Tips for the Best French Toast

To ensure your Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe turns out perfect every time, follow these expert tips. These small adjustments make a big difference in achieving that restaurant-quality texture and flavor.

Use Day-Old Sourdough Bread

Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without getting soggy. If your bread is fresh, try toasting it lightly before dipping it into the custard mixture.

Don’t Skip the Heavy Cream

Using a combination of whole milk and heavy cream makes the custard richer and gives the French toast a creamy, soft center.

Control the Heat

Cooking on medium heat allows the toast to cook through without burning. If the pan is too hot, the outside will brown too quickly while the inside remains undercooked.

Use Butter for Cooking

Butter not only adds flavor but also helps create a crisp, golden-brown crust. However, if you notice it burning too quickly, wipe the pan and add fresh butter between batches.

Let the Toast Rest Before Serving

Allowing the French toast to sit for a minute or two after cooking helps it set properly, ensuring it stays fluffy inside while maintaining that crisp outer layer.

Looking for more breakfast ideas? Check out this delicious Vanilla Ricotta Pancakes Recipe for another restaurant-style brunch favorite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best home cooks can run into issues when making Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your French toast is crispy, custardy, and full of flavor every time.

Over-Soaking the Bread

Letting the bread sit in the custard mixture for too long makes it overly soft, leading to a soggy and mushy texture. Instead, soak each slice for 15–20 seconds per side—just enough to absorb the flavors without becoming too wet.

Using Cold Ingredients

Eggs, milk, and cream should be at room temperature before mixing. This ensures the custard blends smoothly, preventing a lumpy texture.

Cooking on High Heat

Cooking French toast over high heat causes the outside to burn before the inside is fully cooked. Instead, use medium heat for an even, golden-brown crust while keeping the center soft and custardy.

Skipping the Butter

Butter isn’t just for flavor—it helps create that crispy, golden crust Cracker Barrel is known for. If you’re making multiple batches, be sure to add fresh butter to the pan between each one.

Using the Wrong Type of Bread

Soft, thin-sliced bread tends to fall apart in the custard. Thick-cut sourdough or brioche works best because it holds its shape while absorbing the custard.

Want to explore more classic breakfast recipes? Try this Coffee Toffee Mug Muffin Recipe for a quick and easy morning treat!

Why Does Restaurant French Toast Taste Better?

Ever wondered why Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe tastes so much better when you order it at the restaurant? The secret lies in technique, ingredients, and cooking method. Here’s what makes restaurant-style French toast extra special.

Thicker, High-Quality Bread

Restaurants use thick-cut, high-quality bread like sourdough or brioche, which absorbs the custard without falling apart. At home, using a day-old, slightly dry loaf will help you achieve a similar result.

Richer Custard Mixture

Cracker Barrel’s French toast has a creamy, custard-like texture because they use a higher ratio of egg yolks and heavy cream. The added cinnamon and vanilla extract enhance the overall flavor.

Perfectly Controlled Cooking Temperature

Professional kitchens use large flat-top griddles that maintain an even temperature. At home, using a cast-iron skillet or non-stick griddle over medium heat ensures even browning without burning.

Cooking with Butter and Oil

Many restaurants combine butter and oil when cooking French toast. Butter provides richness and flavor, while oil prevents it from burning too quickly. If you want restaurant-quality results, try using a mix of both.

Toppings and Presentation

Restaurants don’t just stop at the French toast itself—they focus on presentation and toppings. A dusting of powdered sugar, fresh fruit, and warm maple syrup makes all the difference.

Want to take your homemade breakfast to the next level? Try these Gluten-Free Monkey Bread recipes for a fun and delicious treat!

Cracker Barrel’s Secret Ingredients

The Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe is famous for its rich flavor, crispy edges, and soft custardy center. While the restaurant doesn’t officially share its exact recipe, here are some key ingredients and techniques that make it special.

1. Sourdough Bread

Unlike traditional French toast made with brioche or white bread, Cracker Barrel uses thick-cut sourdough. This gives the toast a slightly tangy flavor and helps it absorb the custard while maintaining its structure.

2. A Rich Egg Custard

Cracker Barrel’s French toast batter is made with:

• Whole eggs (for structure)
• Heavy cream (for extra richness)
• Whole milk (for creaminess)
• Vanilla extract (for sweetness)
• Cinnamon and nutmeg (for warmth and depth of flavor)

The combination of cream and milk creates a silky, restaurant-quality custard.

3. Butter for Cooking

Instead of using oil, Cracker Barrel cooks its French toast in real butter. This enhances the golden-brown crispiness while adding an extra layer of flavor.

4. Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Many customers notice a light dusting of cinnamon sugar on Cracker Barrel’s French toast. This subtle sweetness balances the custard and enhances the flavor.

5. Maple Syrup Served Warm

Cracker Barrel is known for its high-quality maple syrup, served warm in a small glass bottle. Warming the syrup before drizzling it over the toast helps it absorb better into the crispy layers, making every bite deliciously rich.

Now that we’ve covered the secret ingredients, let’s look at fun variations and serving ideas to customize your French toast at home!

Looking for more breakfast inspiration? Check out this Colombian Breakfast for unique morning flavors!

Variations and Serving Ideas

While the Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe is already delicious on its own, you can customize it with fun variations and creative toppings to make it even better!

1. Stuffed French Toast

Take your French toast to the next level by adding a creamy filling between two slices before cooking. Some delicious options include:

• Cream cheese and strawberries – A rich, tangy contrast to the sweet syrup.
• Peanut butter and banana – A protein-packed breakfast with a nutty twist.
• Nutella and raspberries – A decadent, chocolatey option.

2. Savory French Toast

If you prefer something less sweet, try making a savory version by:

• Skipping the sugar and vanilla in the custard mixture.
• Adding shredded cheese, black pepper, and herbs like parsley or chives.
• Serving with crispy bacon and eggs for a full breakfast plate.

3. Caramelized Banana Topping

For a restaurant-style touch, cook sliced bananas with:

• Butter (1 tbsp)
• Brown sugar (1 tbsp)
• Cinnamon (¼ tsp)

Cook over medium heat until the bananas become golden and caramelized, then spoon them over the French toast.

4. Crunchy Crusted French Toast

For extra texture, coat the soaked bread slices in crushed cornflakes before cooking. This gives the French toast a crispy, crunchy crust while keeping the inside soft and custardy.

5. Seasonal Toppings & Holiday Twists

• Fall – Add pumpkin spice to the custard and top with pecans and maple syrup.
• Winter – Dust with powdered sugar and serve with cranberry sauce.
• Summer – Top with fresh berries and lemon zest for a refreshing twist.

Want more brunch ideas? Try this Sourdough Garlic Bread for a unique twist on classic sourdough flavors!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Cracker Barrel French Toast

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• Author: Laila
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 slices of French toast 1x

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Description

Cracker Barrel French Toast is a must-try for anyone who loves a crispy, buttery, and custardy breakfast classic. This easy copycat recipe brings you the same thick-cut sourdough slices, creamy egg custard, and warm cinnamon flavor—all from the comfort of your home. Whether you’re preparing a weekend brunch or a cozy breakfast, this step-by-step guide will help you recreate the restaurant-quality taste in just a few simple steps.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 4 slices thick-cut sourdough bread
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup whole milk (or substitute with half-and-half for extra richness)
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
• Butter (for cooking)

Optional Toppings:

 

• Maple syrup
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• Whipped cream

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using).
2. Whisk until well combined and smooth.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

1. Dip each slice of sourdough bread into the custard mixture, letting it soak for about 15–20 seconds per side.
2. Ensure the bread absorbs the mixture without becoming too soggy.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

1. Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Melt a generous amount of butter, coating the surface evenly.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

1. Place the custard-soaked bread slices onto the heated pan.
2. Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, flipping once, until golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges.
3. If needed, add more butter before flipping to maintain a rich, buttery flavor.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the French toast to a plate.
2. Top with warm maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or whipped cream.

Notes

• Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale sourdough holds up better when soaked, preventing a mushy texture.
• Control the Heat: Medium heat ensures even cooking without burning the outside.
• Use Butter for Cooking: Butter enhances the crispiness and flavor, but be sure to wipe the pan if it starts to burn.
• Try a Crunchy Twist: Coat the soaked bread in crushed cornflakes before cooking for a crispy texture.
• Stuffed French Toast Variation: Spread cream cheese and fresh strawberries between two slices before cooking for an indulgent version.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 servings
• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 10g

Conclusion

Making Cracker Barrel French Toast Recipe at home is easier than you think! With the right ingredients, a rich custard mixture, and the perfect cooking technique, you can enjoy a crispy, buttery, and custardy French toast just like the one served at Cracker Barrel.

By using thick-cut sourdough bread, cinnamon-spiced custard, and cooking with butter, you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy it with warm maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar, this French toast is guaranteed to become a breakfast favorite for you and your family.

Want to try more comforting breakfast recipes? Check out Vanilla Ricotta Pancakes for another brunch favorite!

Now, it’s time to grab your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and enjoy the best homemade Cracker Barrel French Toast! Happy cooking!