Are you craving a breakfast that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Paula Dean-inspired French toast recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weekend brunches, cozy mornings, or even a special weeknight treat. Forget soggy, bland French toast; this recipe delivers a symphony of textures – crispy edges, a fluffy interior, and a rich, decadent flavor that will leave you wanting more. It's one of those easy recipes that feels truly homemade, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend mornings.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf (1 pound) challah bread, cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter, for cooking
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large, shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This is your custard mixture, the heart of delicious French toast!
Soak the Bread:
- Dip each slice of challah bread into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Let the bread soak for about 15-20 seconds per side, allowing it to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Cook to Perfection:
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Heat a lightly oiled griddle or large skillet over medium heat. Melt a pat of butter on the hot surface. Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot griddle.
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Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You'll know it's ready when the edges are nicely browned and the center is set. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve immediately. Top with your favorite additions: a generous drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and some fresh berries for a touch of sweetness and freshness. This makes for a truly delightful healthy meal, starting your day off right.
Tips for the Best French Toast:
- Bread Choice: Challah bread is ideal for its soft texture and ability to absorb the custard beautifully. However, brioche or Texas toast also work well.
- Don't Over-Soak: Avoid soaking the bread for too long, as this can lead to soggy French toast. Aim for a quick dip to coat the bread evenly.
- Even Cooking: Maintain a consistent medium heat to prevent burning. Adjust the heat as needed to ensure even cooking.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with different toppings! Consider whipped cream, chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
Variations:
- Fruity French Toast: Add a splash of orange juice or lemon juice to the custard mixture for a citrusy twist. Incorporate blueberries, raspberries, or chopped bananas directly into the batter.
- Savory French Toast: Skip the sugar and add savory spices like nutmeg or garlic powder to the custard. Serve with a side of bacon or sausage for a hearty breakfast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and added toppings. A single serving of this French Toast, without added syrups or toppings contains roughly:
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Paula Dean-inspired French toast recipe is more than just a breakfast dish; it’s a comforting experience, perfect for sharing with loved ones and creating lasting memories. It's a delicious dish that's simple to make, yet elevates any meal, from a quick breakfast to a luxurious brunch. Enjoy!