Churro French Toast Challah

Churro French toast is the ultimate breakfast treat when you want something decadent and showstopping. Thick challah bread gets soaked in a creamy egg custard then skillet-fried until golden. Each slice is tossed in cinnamon sugar for that classic churro crunch and topped with a ribbon of cream cheese glaze. This is one of those recipes that makes any weekend feel like a celebration.

I tried this for a Sunday brunch and my friends were scraping the baking sheet for extra sugar bits. Now it is my go-to when I want to impress guests without any fuss.

Ingredients

• Cream cheese: brings a creamy tang for the glaze and works best if you use full fat and let it soften
• Powdered sugar: gives the glaze a silky finish and dissolves easily
• Milk: helps thin out the glaze and egg custard use whole milk for richness
• Vanilla extract: adds warmth to both glaze and custard choose pure extract if possible
• Granulated sugar: creates the crunchy cinnamon sugar coating
• Light brown sugar: gives a caramel-like depth to the cinnamon sugar
• Ground cinnamon: gives that signature churro flavor use a fresh jar for bold taste
• Eggs: form the base of the custard look for large eggs with bright yolks
• Orange zest: adds a pop of brightness optional but worth it if you have a fresh orange
• Honey: sweetens the custard choose a mild variety for best flavor
• Kosher salt: balances sweetness and brightens all the flavors
• Challah bread: makes the softest French toast with a sturdy texture that soaks well use bread that is slightly stale if you can
• Unsalted butter: for pan-frying gives you more control over saltiness
• Vegetable oil: helps keep the butter from burning and gives a golden crust

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Cream Cheese Glaze:

In a medium bowl combine the cream cheese powdered sugar milk and vanilla Beat together using an electric mixer until the glaze is velvety smooth Prepare a zip top bag by filling it with the glaze and set aside

Mix the Cinnamon Sugar:

In a shallow bowl whisk the granulated sugar brown sugar and cinnamon together until no lumps remain Set this mixture nearby for easy dipping

Prepare the Egg Custard:

Crack the eggs into a large shallow bowl and pour in the milk orange zest if using vanilla honey and kosher salt Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and even

Soak the Challah Slices:

Lay the challah slices in the custard letting each side soak for at least five minutes This ensures the bread is fully saturated but not falling apart Flip the slices halfway through for even soaking

Fry the French Toast:

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat Add a generous spoonful of butter and a splash of vegetable oil Once the butter foams add soaked bread Fry each slice for two to three minutes per side until deep golden brown and crisp

Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:

Remove each cooked slice directly from the skillet to the cinnamon sugar Toss quickly to coat all sides while the toast is still hot The sugar will adhere best when warm

Keep Warm and Finish:

Place finished slices on a sheet pan in a low oven to keep warm Continue frying until all bread is cooked then prepare to serve

Glaze and Serve:

Snip a small corner of the ziptop bag filled with cream cheese glaze Drizzle generously over the warm churro French toast Serve right away for the ultimate treat

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My favorite part is the orange zest in the custard You get this subtle citrus aroma that brings the whole dish to life The first time I made this for my cousins we ended up eating the glaze by the spoonful

Storage Tips

Churro French toast stores well in the refrigerator for up to two days Keep the glaze separate and drizzle before serving To freeze arrange slices in a single layer on a baking sheet once solid transfer to a freezer bag Warm in a 350 degree oven until heated through

Ingredient Substitutions

Brioche or even Texas toast can step in for challah if needed Greek yogurt thinned with a splash of milk can replace cream cheese in the glaze For a dairy free version swap in your favorite plant milk and a vegan butter

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Serving Suggestions

This French toast is a showstopper all on its own but coffee or hot chocolate make it feel like dessert for breakfast Try fresh berries on the side or a dollop of whipped cream For special occasions serve with a bowl of berries in syrup

A Sweet Tradition

French toast has roots in kitchens across Europe where leftover bread always needed a second life Churro flavors add a fun twist that nods to Spanish markets and street fairs I love how this mashup brings two comfort foods together in one amazing bite

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best?

Challah is ideal due to its rich and tender texture, but brioche or thick white pan loaf can also be used.

→ How do you get the cinnamon sugar to stick?

Dip the warm toast immediately after frying into the cinnamon sugar so it adheres evenly and creates a crispy layer.

→ Can the cream cheese glaze be made ahead?

Yes, prepare the glaze in advance and store it chilled. Let it come to room temperature before drizzling.

→ Can you make this dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan cream cheese for alternatives.

→ How do you keep the toast warm for serving?

Arrange the slices on a baking sheet in a low (250°F) oven until ready to serve.