Imagine waking up to the delightful aroma of Challah French Toast sizzling on the stove. This isn’t just any breakfast; it’s a warm hug on a plate that elevates your morning to something truly special. Using rich, eggy challah bread, this French toast recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the world of Challah French Toast, where each bite is a celebration.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Challah French Toast is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. The soft and slightly sweet texture of challah means it soaks up the egg mixture beautifully, resulting in a custardy interior that contrasts perfectly with a crispy exterior. Whether you’re serving it for a family brunch or a cozy breakfast-for-dinner situation, this recipe is bound to impress. Plus, it’s adaptable to whatever toppings you love, making it a dish you’ll want to revisit time and again.

Gather These Ingredients

6 large eggs
1 cup low-fat milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Heaping 1 teaspoon salt
1 loaf day-old challah, brioche, or other good bread, sliced 1-inch (2-cm) thick
Unsalted butter
Vegetable oil
Maple syrup, for serving

What’s in the Gear List

Large mixing bowl – for whisking together your egg mixture.
Whisk – to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
Skillet or griddle – for cooking the French toast to perfection.
Spatula – for flipping the French toast without breaking it.
Measuring cups and spoons – to get those ingredient amounts just right.

Cooking Challah French Toast: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs and whisk them together until they are fully blended. Add in the 1 cup of low-fat milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, and a heaping 1 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

Take your day-old challah bread and slice it into 1-inch thick pieces if not already done. Dip each slice into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for about 30 seconds on each side. This soaking time is key to ensuring every bite is rich and flavorful.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet or griddle, heat a tablespoon of unsalted butter and a splash of vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil will help prevent the butter from burning while adding flavor.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast

Once the butter has melted and is bubbling, carefully place the soaked challah slices in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the French toast from the skillet and place it on a warm plate. Drizzle with maple syrup and add your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Variations by Season

Spring: Top with fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of mint for a refreshing twist.
Summer: Serve with a berry compote made from seasonal fruits.
Fall: Add pumpkin spice to the custard mixture and top with sautéed apples.
Winter: Incorporate some nutmeg into the custard and serve with warm spiced syrup.

Don’t Do This

Don’t skip the soaking step! This is crucial for a custardy center.
Avoid using fresh challah, as it may not absorb the custard as well.
Don’t rush the cooking process; low and slow is the key to crispy edges.
Do not overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a toaster or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Enjoy them the next day, and they’ll still taste fantastic!

Questions People Ask

Can I make Challah French Toast ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture the night before and soak the bread in the morning for a quick breakfast. Alternatively, you can cook the French toast ahead of time and reheat it as needed.

Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! While challah is traditional, brioche, sourdough, or even a thick French bread will work beautifully in this recipe.

What can I use instead of milk and cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute almond milk or oat milk for the low-fat milk. For the heavy cream, try coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

How do I prevent my French toast from getting soggy?

Ensure you don’t soak the bread for too long. About 30 seconds per side should be sufficient to absorb enough custard without becoming overly soggy.

Quick Weeknight Wins

Hungry for More?

If you’re ready to explore more delectable breakfast options, consider diving into the world of sweet and savory dishes that can transform your mornings. From fluffy pancakes drizzled with warm syrup to savory breakfast burritos packed with your favorite fillings, there’s a whole universe of flavors waiting for you to discover. Don’t forget to come back for more delicious recipes, tips, and tricks to make your cooking adventures a breeze.

The next time you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a treat, remember this Challah French Toast recipe. With its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, it’s bound to become a staple in your breakfast rotation. Enjoy every bite!

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