Bourbon Maple Bacon French Toast
Bourbon Maple Bacon French Toast is a decadent breakfast dish combining smoky crispy bacon, rich bourbon flavor, and sweet pure maple syrup atop thick-cut brioche or challah bread soaked in a warm spiced custard. This perfect blend of sweet, savory, and boozy flavors creates a comforting yet special brunch experience, easy to customize and ideal for impressing guests or indulging at home.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free bread)
Bread
- 6 thick-cut slices brioche or challah bread
Bacon
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cooking
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Additional maple syrup and bourbon for serving (optional)
- Prepare the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy either by frying in a skillet or baking on a sheet pan at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes on a wire rack. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk or cream, bourbon, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Dip the Bread: Briefly dip each thick slice of brioche or challah into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak enough to absorb flavor without becoming soggy.
- Cook the French Toast: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the soaked bread slices in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through, adjusting heat as needed to avoid burning.
- Assemble and Serve: Arrange the cooked French toast on plates, top with crispy bacon slices, and drizzle generously with warm maple syrup. Optionally, add a splash of bourbon for an extra kick.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better custard absorption without falling apart.
- Balance soaking time to avoid soggy bread.
- Cook on medium heat to ensure even cooking and a golden crust.
- Use real pure maple syrup for authentic flavor.
- Let custard rest for 5 minutes to meld spices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
Keywords: bourbon, maple syrup, bacon, french toast, brunch, breakfast, sweet and savory, bourbon maple bacon french toast