Description
This Crunchy Nut French Toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, featuring thick-cut brioche or challah bread coated in a crunchy mixture of crushed nuts and cornflakes. The rich egg mixture infused with vanilla and cinnamon gives each slice a perfect balance of flavor and crispiness when pan-fried to golden perfection. Serve warm with maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an irresistible morning treat.
Ingredients
Scale
For the French Toast
- 4 slices of thick-cut bread (preferably brioche or challah)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Coating
- 1/4 cup crushed nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
- 1/4 cup cornflakes, crushed
For Cooking and Serving
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined to create a flavorful custard base.
- Prepare the nutty coating: In a separate shallow bowl, mix the crushed nuts and crushed cornflakes thoroughly to make a crunchy coating for the French toast.
- Coat the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are evenly soaked. Then press each side firmly into the nut and cornflake mixture so that the coating sticks well to the bread.
- Fry the French toast: Heat the butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat until melted and hot. Place the coated bread slices onto the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior.
- Serve: Remove the French toast from the skillet and serve immediately warm with maple syrup drizzled on top and optionally dust with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Using thick-cut brioche or challah bread adds extra richness and helps maintain the crunch after frying.
- Ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the bread to avoid sticking and to get an even golden crust.
- You can customize the nut mixture according to your preference or nut allergies—sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be good alternatives.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use a plant-based butter alternative for frying.
- Serve immediately after cooking to enjoy the crunchy texture; French toast tends to soften if left too long.
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American