Oh, French toast! Just the mention of it brings back memories of lazy Sunday mornings, slathering butter on a steaming stack while the aroma of cinnamon wafted through the air. It’s that delightful comfort food that feels like a hug on a plate, isn’t it? What I absolutely love about French toast is its incredible versatility. While the classic version is fabulous on its own, I can’t resist adding my personal twist to spice things up a bit!
This Classic French Toast with a Twist recipe is not just about jam and syrup; it brings together zesty orange, a hint of vanilla, and a sprinkling of nutmeg, resulting in a dish that sings with flavor. It’s perfect for brunch, or even breakfast-for-dinner nights when you want something sweet to brighten your day. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so even if you’re still in your pajamas, you can whip it up in no time!
What’s in Classic French Toast with a Twist?
Bread: The traditional choice is thick-cut bread, like challah or brioche. They add that luscious, eggy goodness that is just divine. I often grab a loaf from my local bakery, as they really make a difference in texture and flavor!
Eggs: The star of the show, eggs give the French toast its rich, custardy interior. Fresh eggs are a must, and I like to use free-range when possible for that extra flavor.
Milk: A splash of whole milk helps to create that creamy batter. You could also substitute with almond or oat milk if you prefer a non-dairy option.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices elevate the dish to new heights, adding warmth and depth. A dash of nutmeg gives it that little something special. I always say, “If you don’t have nutmeg, you’re missing out!”
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla is essential for that heavenly aroma and taste. I’ve learned that a little high-quality vanilla goes a long way, so choose wisely!
Fresh Orange Zest: This is my twist! The zest wakes up the palate and adds a bright flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly. Trust me; it’s a game-changer.
Maple Syrup: Last but not least, for drizzling on top, nothing beats real maple syrup. It’s the icing on the cake, or should I say, the drizzle on the toast!
Is Classic French Toast with a Twist Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health. French toast can be a decadent treat, but it’s not all bad! The use of whole eggs means you’re in for some protein, which helps keep you full longer. And with the addition of orange zest, you get a bit of vitamin C too!
However, moderation is key here. While this dish has a nice balance of carbs and proteins, too much maple syrup can quickly turn it into a sugar overload. So, drizzle carefully! You can always top it with some fresh fruit like berries or bananas to add natural sweetness while increasing fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients List
– 4 slices of thick-cut bread (challah or brioche)
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup whole milk (or non-dairy milk)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Zest of 1 orange
– Butter for cooking (about 1 tablespoon)
– Maple syrup for serving
– Serves: 2-3 people
How to Make Classic French Toast with a Twist?
1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and orange zest until well combined.
2. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt some butter in it.
3. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side, but don’t let it get too soggy.
4. Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Once cooked, serve the French toast warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and extra orange zest, if desired.
Make It Your Own!
Feel free to get creative with your French toast! You can add a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version or top it with yogurt and fresh fruit to make it even more nutritious. Sometimes I love to throw in a handful of pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast. And if I want to go all-out, a dollop of whipped cream on top is never a bad idea!
So, there you have it: Classic French Toast with a Twist! I encourage you to whip this up next time you’re in the mood for a cozy breakfast that says, “let’s take it easy today!” I can’t wait for you to try it and I hope you enjoy it as much as I do. If you make it, please share your experience or any twists you created – I love hearing about your kitchen adventures!
