Are you looking for a delightful and easy breakfast recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further! This French toast recipe with strawberries is the perfect combination of sweet and savory, making it an ideal choice for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday morning meal. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's surprisingly quick to make, proving that healthy meals can also be delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices of challah bread (or brioche for a richer flavor)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- Maple syrup (to taste)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This creates the custard mixture that will soak the bread, giving it that classic French toast texture.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of challah bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Don't let the bread soak for too long; about 15-20 seconds per side is ideal. Too much soaking will result in soggy French toast.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat the butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, carefully place the soaked bread slices onto the hot surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once cooked, arrange the French toast slices on a plate. Top with sliced strawberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best French Toast:
- Bread Choice Matters: Challah or brioche bread are excellent choices due to their soft texture and ability to absorb the custard mixture beautifully. However, you can experiment with other bread types as well!
- Don't Over-Soak: As mentioned before, over-soaking leads to soggy French toast. Aim for a quick dip to coat the bread evenly.
- Proper Heat: Medium heat is crucial for even cooking. High heat will burn the outside before the inside is cooked through. Low heat will result in soggy French toast.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings! Blueberries, bananas, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of nuts are all delicious options.
Variations:
- Savory French Toast: Skip the sweet toppings and try savory variations. Add some crumbled bacon or sausage, a sprinkle of cheese, and a drizzle of hot sauce for a unique breakfast experience.
- Overnight French Toast: For a make-ahead option, soak the bread in the egg mixture overnight in the refrigerator. Cook as directed in the morning.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on bread and toppings)
- Protein: Around 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: Around 35-40 grams
- Fat: Around 10-12 grams
This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and healthy breakfast or brunch. It’s a delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, or homemade cooking inspiration, this French toast recipe with strawberries fits the bill. It's a wonderful addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!