Crunchy French Toast

If you’re looking for a breakfast that offers both comfort and a delightful crunch, look no further than this Crunchy French Toast. Imagine thick slices of buttery brioche or challah bread, soaked in a perfectly spiced egg mixture, and then rolled in crispy cornflakes. This dish is a beautiful marriage of soft and crunchy textures, making it a standout choice for brunch or a cozy weekend breakfast at home. Top it off with a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, and a handful of fresh berries, and you have a plate that’s not only delicious but also Instagram-worthy!

Why This Recipe Works

This Crunchy French Toast recipe capitalizes on the creamy richness of eggs and milk, balanced with the warmth of vanilla and cinnamon. The cornflake coating provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior of the bread. Using thick slices of brioche or challah ensures that the toast is hearty enough to absorb the custard-like mixture without falling apart. The combination of flavors and textures not only delights the palate but also elevates the humble French toast to a new level of indulgence.

What We’re Using

To create this scrumptious Crunchy French Toast, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 4 cups cornflakes
• 8 thick slices brioche or challah bread
• Unsalted butter, for cooking
• Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and berries, for serving

Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture for your Crunchy French Toast.

Appliances & Accessories

Before diving into the cooking, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories on hand:

• Large mixing bowl – to whisk together the egg mixture.
• Shallow dish – ideal for holding the cornflakes for coating.
• Frying pan or griddle – for cooking the French toast evenly.
• Spatula – to flip the toast without breaking it.
• Serving platter – for presenting your beautiful breakfast.

Having the right tools will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results with your Crunchy French Toast.

Crunchy French Toast: How It’s Done

Now, let’s get to the exciting part—making your Crunchy French Toast! Follow these steps for a breakfast that will impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 large eggs, 3/4 cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is combined well and set it aside.

Step 2: Crush the Cornflakes

In a shallow dish, crush the 4 cups of cornflakes into smaller pieces. You want them to be crunchy but not powdered. This will create a delightful coating for the toast.

Step 3: Dip the Bread

Take a thick slice of brioche or challah bread and dip it into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. You want it to absorb enough of the mixture without becoming too soggy.

Step 4: Coat with Cornflakes

After soaking, lift the bread out of the egg mixture and let any excess drip off. Then, press the slice into the crushed cornflakes, ensuring both sides are well-coated.

Step 5: Cook the French Toast

In a frying pan or griddle, melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the coated bread slices to the pan, cooking in batches if necessary. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, transfer the Crunchy French Toast to a serving platter. Drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, and top with fresh berries. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some easy swaps:

• Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option.
• Substitute the brioche or challah bread with gluten-free bread.
• Choose gluten-free cornflakes to maintain the crunch without gluten.
• For a vegan version, use flax eggs and plant-based milk.

With these substitutions, you can still enjoy a delicious Crunchy French Toast that meets your dietary needs.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While making Crunchy French Toast is generally straightforward, here are some common pitfalls and how to overcome them:

If your French toast is soggy:

• Ensure you’re not soaking the bread for too long in the egg mixture.
• Reduce the heat slightly to allow for even cooking without burning the outside.

If the cornflake coating isn’t sticking:

• Make sure to press the bread firmly into the cornflakes after dipping it in the egg mixture.
• Consider using a little more egg mixture if needed.

These tips will help you perfect your Crunchy French Toast every time!

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

If you find yourself with leftovers (though that’s rare!), here’s how to store them:

To refrigerate:

• Place the cooled French toast in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To freeze:

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to a month.

To reheat:

• Use a toaster or an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again.
• Microwave for a quick option, but note that this may result in a softer texture.

These methods ensure that your Crunchy French Toast stays delicious even after storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the egg mixture ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the egg mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using it to make your Crunchy French Toast.

What type of bread works best for French toast?

Thick slices of brioche or challah are ideal because they absorb the egg mixture well and provide a soft texture. However, you can use any bread you enjoy, including sourdough or Texas toast.

How do I make my French toast extra crispy?

Make sure to coat the bread thoroughly in cornflakes, and cook it in butter over medium heat, allowing it to develop a golden-brown crust.

Can I add flavors to the egg mixture?

Absolutely! You can add a bit of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a splash of orange juice for a unique twist on your Crunchy French Toast.

Reader Favorites

If you’re looking for more delicious recipes to try, don’t miss out on these reader favorites:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction
• Pinch of Yum
• Minimalist Baker

These blogs offer a treasure trove of recipes that are sure to inspire your culinary adventures.

Next Steps

Now that you have the recipe for Crunchy French Toast, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! Whether it’s a special occasion or just another day of the week, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfaction to your breakfast table. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag your favorite food bloggers for some extra inspiration. Happy cooking!