Crunchy French Toast
A panko-spiced crust delivers satisfying crunch with a warm, custardy center per bite.
Introduction to Crunchy French Toast
French toast, a classic breakfast dish, can be elevated to a new level with the addition of a crunchy coating. This version, inspired by Ree Drummond’s recipe, combines the tender interior of traditional French toast with a crispy exterior, creating a delightful combination of textures that will transform your breakfast routine.
Key Ingredients and Equipment
To make crunchy French toast, you will need the following ingredients:
- Bread: Preferably a thick, crusty bread like Challah or Brioche works well.
- Eggs: Essential for the egg batter.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness.
- Crumbs: Panko or crushed cereal for the crunchy coating.
- Butter: Generous amounts for a crispy exterior.
- Spices: Cinnamon and vanilla for flavor.
For equipment, you will need a large skillet, a bowl for whisking eggs, and a plate for coating the bread.
Preparation Steps
Preparation is key to making these crunchy French toast sticks. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Prepare the Crumb Coating: Mix Panko breadcrumbs with sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish.
- Whisk the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, a pinch of sugar, and a dash of vanilla.
- Assemble the French Toast: Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture and then coat with the crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Cooking the French Toast
Cooking is where the magic happens:
- Heat the Skillet: Place a generous amount of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Cook the French Toast: Place coated bread slices in the skillet and cook for about 4 to 6 minutes on each side, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve Warm: Once cooked, place the French toast on a plate, top with butter, and serve with your favorite toppings.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your crunchy French toast experience:
- Use Different Crumbs: Experiment with crushed cereal or even cookie crumbs for a unique taste.
- Add Fresh Fruits: Top with fresh strawberries or blueberries for added sweetness.
- Flavor the Egg Mixture: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a drizzle of maple syrup to the egg mixture for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of bread is best for crunchy French toast?
A: Thick, crusty breads like Challah or Brioche work well because they can hold the crumb coating without falling apart.
Q: Can I freeze crunchy French toast after cooking?
A: Yes, you can freeze them after cooking. Simply thaw and toast lightly to restore crispiness.
Q: How do I prevent the crumbs from burning?
A: Keep an eye on the heat and adjust as needed. If the crumbs start browning too quickly, reduce the heat.
Conclusion
Crunchy French toast is an easy and delightful breakfast option that combines the best of both worlds—a crispy exterior with a tender interior. With these simple steps and variations, you can elevate your breakfast game and create a treat that the whole family will love.
References
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