Challah French Toast

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Indulge in a delightful breakfast experience with my Challah French Toast recipe. This classic morning treat combines the rich and eggy goodness of challah bread with a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar. The result is a heavenly fusion of flavors that will elevate your breakfast game. Follow my simple instructions to create golden and crispy French toast, complemented by your favorite jam and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Best bread for french toast

I shared here on the blog different types of Challah breads, and if you have any leftovers, this recipe is the perfect solution. Challah is perfect for French toast because it’s already a bit sweet and fluffy. Of course you can use any bread to make French toast but when you have leftovers, it’s a no-brainer.

While challah is a popular choice for French toast due to its rich sweet and eggy flavor, you can use other bread types like brioche or even a sturdy white bread. Challah, however, adds a unique taste and texture to the French toast.

If you are looking for other bread recipes then you can try my beer bread, no-knead bread, Spelt bread or the Irish soda bread recipe.

Ingredients and process for french toast

The ingredients for this delicious French toast is just four slices of that soft challah bread. It's the best for soaking up the sweet and spicy mix of egg, milk, sugar, and cinnamon. Then, grab a spoonful of butter for frying – that's the secret to the golden-brown magic. Top it off with your go-to jam for a fruity kick or a bit of butter and sprinkle some powdered sugar for that extra sweet vibe. With these simple ingredients, you're turning basic breakfast into a flavor-packed feast.

Tips to ensure your French toast turns out perfectly every time:

Choose the Right Challah Bread:

Select fresh challah bread with a soft and slightly dense texture. Stale bread can work well too, as it tends to absorb the batter better.

Slice Thickness:

Cut your challah bread into slices that are about 1-inch thick. This thickness allows the bread to absorb the batter without becoming too soggy.

Egg Mixture Consistency:

Whisk the egg, milk, sugar, and cinnamon thoroughly to create a well-blended batter. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved for an even sweetness throughout the French toast.

Allow Proper Soaking Time:

Allow the challah slices to soak in the batter for a long enough time to ensure that they absorb the mixture. This imparts flavor to the bread and results in a creamy interior.

Preheat the Pan:

Preheat your frying pan over medium heat before adding the butter. This ensures that the French toast cooks evenly and develops a golden-brown crust.

Don't Overcrowd the Pan:

Fry only a few slices at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows each piece to cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.

Patience is Key:

Allow the bread to cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side. Resist the urge to constantly flip the slices, as this can prevent the French toast from developing a crispy exterior.

Adjust Heat as Needed:

If the French toast is browning too quickly, reduce the heat. If it's taking too long to cook, slightly increase the heat. Adjusting the temperature ensures that the toast cooks evenly.

Serve Immediately:

French toast is best enjoyed straight from the pan. Serve it hot with your favorite toppings like jam and a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Get Creative with Toppings:

Experiment with various toppings such as fresh berries, maple syrup, whipped cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add extra layers of flavor and texture.

FAQS

How thick should I slice the challah for French toast?

Aim for slices that are approximately 1 inch thick. This thickness allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the batter just before cooking the French toast to maintain its freshness and ensure that the sugar is fully dissolved. However, you can mix the dry ingredients (sugar and cinnamon) in advance and add the wet ingredients (egg and milk) when you're ready to cook.

Should I use whole milk or can I use a substitute?

Whole milk contributes to a creamier texture, but you can use alternatives like 2% milk or even a non-dairy milk of your choice. Keep in mind that the richness of whole milk adds to the overall flavor.

Can I make Challah French Toast ahead of time and reheat it?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the French toast ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or toaster. Reheating in a toaster or toaster oven helps retain some of the crispiness.

Can I freeze leftover Challah French Toast?

Yes, you can freeze leftover French toast. Allow it to cool completely, then place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a sealed container or zip-top bag. To reheat, toast in a toaster or bake in the oven.

How do I prevent the French toast from becoming too soggy?

Make sure not to soak the challah slices in the batter for too long. A quick dip to coat each side is sufficient. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess.

Can I make a savory version of Challah French Toast?

Absolutely! Skip the sugar and cinnamon in the batter, and you can create a savory version. Serve it with toppings like smoked salmon, cream cheese, and fresh herbs for a delicious twist.

Any tips for making Challah French Toast for a crowd?

If making a large batch, use a griddle to cook multiple slices simultaneously. Keep the cooked French toast warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) while you finish cooking the rest.

Other Bread and pastry recipes to try:

Make challah French toast today!

Whether you're treating yourself to a leisurely weekend brunch or impressing guests with a special breakfast, this Challah French Toast is a surefire way to start your day on a delicious note. Let's dive into the art of making this delectable morning delight!