Make It
Better
French
Toast
Pancakes are great, but French toast is definitely the most indulgent breakfast food. It's as sweet and satisfying as any dessert, but it's also filling and comforting. So really, French toast was made for slow, sleepy mornings and weekend brunches. Hell, it even makes a fine dinner after a long, hard day. What's more, the basic recipe is easy and economical to make with ingredients you likely always have on hand. It's not hard to master this perfect combination of taste and textures, but you've got to sweat the details. The difference between sad, limp French toast and the crispy, custardy food of the gods is all in the technique. You want to make sure you're mixing your egg dip thoroughly and not under-soaking the bread. Herewith, a fool-proof plan.
Classic French Toast
Ingredients
6 to 8 slices of thick-cut bread
(try a brioche, challah, French or country loaf)
2/3 cup milk
(or Half & Half)
3 eggs
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp sugar
Pinch of salt
Unsalted butter
Maple syrup
Technique
1.)
Make your custard dip by whisking together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon and salt in a large shallow dish until well combined.
2.)
Add your slices of bread to the dish and turn to coat. Then gently press down on bread to lightly soak up custard mixture. (This ensures a rich and luscious, not-too-dry, texture).
3.)
Melt a knob of butter in a skillet over medium heat. When the butter begins to foam, grab your bread (letting any excess custard drip back into dish) and place it in the pan.
4.)
Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown. The center of the toast should spring back when pressed. Serve with butter and a dribble of maple syrup. Powdered sugar optional.
Keep It Warm
Making a big batch for a group? Heat your oven to 225°F and store your finished toast on a pan to keep it warm until serving.
Next
Level
French
Toast
After dipping your bread into the custard mixture, coat with crushed cereal (corn flakes, Cap'n Crunch or Cinnamon Toast Crunch are favorites). This makes for a crisp, crunchy crust on the outside and a softer center to the toast. For an extra layer of flavor, top with a dusting of powdered sugar and orange zest before finishing with maple syrup.
