Table of Contents
Origins in the Gathering: Pinewood Social and its Sweet Challah French Toast
Imagine the vibrant and eclectic scene of Nashville, a city that embraces both its musical roots and a growing appreciation for innovative social spaces. The story of Pinewood Social in Nashville tells a tale of a unique establishment where dining, coffee, cocktails, bowling, and karaoke come together in a stylish and inviting atmosphere.
Pinewood Social isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of community and connection, a place where people can gather, socialize, and enjoy a variety of experiences under one roof. The name itself evokes a sense of warmth and camaraderie, hinting at the establishment’s dedication to creating a welcoming and engaging environment. The ambiance is modern and playful, a space where you can savor delicious food and drinks while enjoying a game of bowling or singing your heart out in a private karaoke room.
During my visit, I had the distinct pleasure of experiencing their challah french toast, a dish that perfectly embodies Pinewood Social’s approach to comfort food with a creative twist. It wasn’t just a simple breakfast dish; it was a symphony of textures and flavors. The rich and fluffy challah bread, perfectly prepared, provided a wonderful base for the accompanying elements. This dish was a testament to Pinewood Social’s commitment to using high-quality ingredients and creative techniques.
Savoring that challah french toast at Pinewood Social, I understood that Pinewood Social is more than just a place to eat; it’s a place to experience a unique blend of social activities and culinary delights in a modern and exciting way. It’s about respecting the quality of the ingredients while embracing innovation, creating dishes that are both comforting and adventurous. Pinewood Social’s origin lies in the vision of its creators to establish a multi-faceted social hub in Nashville, a city that appreciates community, creativity, and bold flavors. It’s a testament to the enduring appeal of thoughtfully prepared food and its ability to enhance memorable social experiences.
If you’re looking for a unique and engaging social experience with delicious food and drinks in Nashville, Pinewood Social should be at the top of your list. It’s a place where you can enjoy a variety of activities and inventive dishes, a true gem in Nashville’s diverse landscape. Whether you’re bowling with friends or enjoying a leisurely brunch, Pinewood Social promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Nashville’s vibrant culture.
Bringing Sweet Comfort Home: Your Own Decadent Challah French Toast
To capture the comforting, slightly indulgent essence of Pinewood Social’s celebrated challah french toast in your own kitchen, begin with the rich, eggy bread and a simple, flavorful custard. This culinary journey celebrates the simple pleasure of a well-made breakfast with a touch of warmth and sweetness, much like the inviting ethos at Pinewood Social.
Embarking on this endeavor is a lesson in appreciating the inherent richness of good challah bread and the satisfyingly soft texture of perfectly cooked french toast. Focus on the gentle soaking and griddling process that unlocks its comforting flavors. Start by selecting thick slices of good quality challah bread and fresh eggs, the foundation of this delightful dish.
Consider incorporating elements that reflect Pinewood Social’s focus on highlighting simple pleasures with a touch of creativity. A simple custard infused with vanilla and a hint of spice will enhance the inherent richness and bring out its comforting character. The key is to let the quality of the bread be the star.
Pay close attention to the soaking process, allowing the challah to absorb the custard without becoming soggy. The gentle griddling should result in a golden-brown exterior and a soft, custardy interior. The aroma filling your kitchen will be a testament to the simple yet profound transformation of humble ingredients.
As you prepare this comforting dish, you’ll appreciate the ease and satisfaction of creating something both delicious and satisfying. It’s a celebration of classic brunch flavors, minimal fuss, and the pure pleasure of enjoying a simply prepared yet flavorful dish, inspired by the welcoming artistry of Pinewood Social.
Chef’s Notes: Creamy Vanilla Cinnamon French Toast
- Use slightly stale bread: Day-old challah holds up better to the custard soak and creates the best texture.
- Whisk custard until slightly frothy: This incorporates air for a lighter soak and ensures even distribution of spices.
- Don’t oversoak the slices: About 20–30 seconds per side is plenty to avoid a soggy or collapsing result.
- Keep the skillet on medium-low: Low and slow cooking gives you that deep golden crust without burning the outside.
- Use butter for rich flavor: Unsalted butter creates beautiful browning while keeping the flavor balanced.
- Add sugar to the custard for dessert vibes: Just 1 tablespoon gives a subtle sweetness if you like it extra indulgent.
- Try infused syrups: Vanilla or cinnamon-infused maple syrup adds a fun twist to the final drizzle.
- Garnish with crunch and color: Toasted nuts or a sprinkle of powdered sugar with fresh berries elevate presentation.
- Make ahead for busy mornings: Prep the custard and soak the bread the night before; cook fresh in the morning.
- Double the batch and freeze extras: Cooked slices freeze well—just toast them straight from the freezer.
Creamy Vanilla Cinnamon French Toast
Dive into this luscious vanilla cinnamon French toast that transforms ordinary breakfast into a grand treat! Soft slices of rich bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture with fragrant vanilla, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg create an irresistibly warm and comforting dish. Perfect for weekend brunches or special mornings, this French toast boasts a crisp, golden crust balanced with a tender, custardy center. Whether drizzled with warm maple syrup or topped with fresh berries and nuts, this recipe brings a vibrant, inviting flavor to your table every time. Get ready to impress with simplicity and deliciousness in every bite!
4
8
minutes12
minutes20
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Dairy Eggs
Crack 3 extra-large farm-fresh eggs into a medium mixing bowl
Pour in 1/2 cup of whole milk for creaminess and richness
Add 2 1/2 tablespoons of unsalted butter ready for cooking and flavor finishing
- Spices Flavorings
Blend in 1/2 teaspoon of fragrant ground cinnamon for warmth
Stir 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to enhance sweetness and aroma
Sprinkle a small pinch of freshly grated nutmeg to add a subtle spicy kick
- Bread
Prepare 4 thick-cut slices about 3/4 inch each of a soft braided challah loaf, perfect for soaking
- Finishing Touch
Warm pure maple syrup to drizzle generously when serving
- Alternative Ingredients
Challah bread: substitute with brioche or egg bread for similar texture
Whole milk: swap with almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free options
Unsalted butter: use coconut oil or dairy-free margarine to keep it vegan
Eggs: replace with flaxseed or chia egg mix for a vegan version
Maple syrup: honey or agave syrup work well as sweet alternatives
Spices: ground cardamom or pumpkin spice can add a different aromatic twist
Directions
- Prep Egg Custard – Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized shallow bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, whole milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and freshly grated nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy. This custard base is crucial for soaking the bread to soak up max flavor and moisture (about 3-4 minutes). Optionally, you can add a tablespoon of sugar for extra sweetness if desired.
- Soak Bread – Ensure Even Custard Absorption: Working with one slice at a time, immerse the challah bread fully into the custard mixture, flipping it gently to coat both sides thoroughly. Let each slice sit in the liquid just long enough to absorb, roughly 20-30 seconds per side, avoiding oversaturation which can cause sogginess. This soaking step helps the bread develop a creamy, tender interior after cooking.
- Cook French Toast – Achieve Golden Perfection: Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat until it bubbles softly. Lay in two slices of the soaked bread; cook until the bottom turns a rich golden brown, about 2 minutes. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until the bread is cooked through but not burnt. Repeat the process with the remaining slices, adding more butter if needed. Maintaining a medium-low heat is essential to prevent burning and ensure the custard sets nicely.
- Serve Hot with Maple Syrup – Garnish and Enjoy: Plate the French toast slices while still warm and drizzle generously with warm pure maple syrup. For extra flair, garnish with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, or toasted nuts if you like added texture and flavor contrast. This step instantly elevates the dish for a satisfying breakfast or brunch experience.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Nonstick Pan
- whisk
- spatula
- measuring cups and spoons
- medium shallow dish
Notes
- For the best French toast, use slightly stale bread as it soaks up the custard better without falling apart. Adjust the soaking time based on your bread’s texture to keep it tender but intact. Serve with warm maple syrup complemented by fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas to introduce vibrant flavors. For added indulgence, sprinkle toasted pecans or crushed walnuts on top for crunch. To make it gluten-free, simply swap the bread accordingly and opt for dairy substitutes to make the dish vegan. This recipe is perfect for easy weekend brunches or quick weekday treats that feel like a special occasion.
Nutrition Facts
- Total number of serves: 1
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 209mg
- Sodium: 120mg
- Potassium: 220mg
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 9g
- Vitamin A: 850IU
- Vitamin C: 0mg
- Calcium: 120mg
- Iron: 1.5mg
FAQs: Creamy Vanilla Cinnamon French Toast
can I use regular sandwich bread instead of challah?
Yes, though it’s best to use thick-cut or Texas toast style slices for structure and richness.
how do I make it dairy-free?
Swap whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use coconut oil or vegan butter for cooking.
can I make this without eggs?
Absolutely—use a flaxseed or chia egg mixture as a custard base alternative.
what spices can I add instead of cinnamon and nutmeg?
Try pumpkin spice, cardamom, or allspice for different warm, aromatic profiles.
can I bake the French toast instead of frying?
Yes, arrange soaked slices on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Definitely. Let the slices cool, then layer with parchment and freeze. Reheat in a toaster or oven for best results.
how can I avoid soggy French toast?
Don’t oversoak the bread and be sure to cook over medium-low heat until the custard is fully set inside.
can I make this recipe in a large batch for a crowd?
Yes! Use a griddle or two skillets and keep cooked slices warm in a 200°F oven while you finish the batch.
what toppings go well with this?
Try maple syrup, berry compote, whipped cream, yogurt, sliced bananas, or toasted nuts for variety.
can I prep the custard the night before?
Yes, just whisk and refrigerate it overnight. Stir before using in the morning for an easy start.
