Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, a special occasion, or just want to treat that special someone to a gourmet breakfast, you won’t disappoint with a generous serving of homemade French toast. The popular brunch dish has humble roots in French history; traditional recipes made use of stale baguette bread dipped in egg batter and sugar to became a popular addition to the breakfast table. Modern-day versions include cream cheese and fruit fillings, a sprinkling of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup for some distinct preparations. Here are three indulgent recipes to show off some of your gourmet breakfast talents!
Caramel Apple French Toast
This is a baked version of French toast that is a welcome change from the standard pan-frying method. Be sure to sprinkle some cinnamon into the mix to enhance the apple flavor. Try serving with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for a great dessert too!
Mix together ½ cup of butter, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 sliced apples, 2 tbsp water, and 1 tsp. cinnamon in a medium bowl and set aside. Combine 5 eggs, 1.5 cups of milk, and2 tsp. vanilla in a blender, and blend thoroughly. Heat the butter and sugar mixture on medium heat in a saucepan until bubbly. Continue cooking the sauce until it becomes foamy.
Layer French baguette slices in a pan, along with sliced apples and sauce mixture. Pour the egg mixture on top, and bake at 350 degrees for about 25 minutes. Let cool, and serve warm.
Berry Cream Cheese French Toast
If you’re a fan of strawberry cheesecake, be sure to try this variation of stuffed French toast with a gourmet filling. The cream cheese melts easily from the short pan-fry, and you’ll relish this cheesecake-style combo:
In a large bowl, mix together 3 eggs, 2 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp vanilla, and 1 tbsp milk. Take two slices of large French baguette bread and spread with cream cheese and a layer of strawberry preserves. Make small sandwiches using the rest of the cream cheese, and set aside. Heat a pan with 1 tbsp. butter, and lightly toast each ‘sandwich’. Fry for about 4 minutes, then serve with maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream.
Crème Brulee French Toast
This is one rich concoction, and you’ll want to reserve it for that anniversary brunch or special celebration. If you’re watching calories, this one won’t be making the list!
Melt ½ a cup of butter, 1 cup brown sugar, and 2 tbsp corn syrup in a medium saucepan, and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Pour into a buttered baking dish. Layer sliced Challah bread that’s been cut into 1 inch thick slices onto the dish and set aside. In a small bowl, mix together 5 eggs, 1 cup heavy cream, ¾ cup milk, 1 tsp. vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Pour this over the bread mixture, and cover the dish with saran wrap. Refrigerate overnight so that the bread absorbs all of the mixture. Let the pan stand at room temperature for about 20 minutes to settle; then bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes until golden brown. Serve immediately with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and some powdered sugar sprinkled on top.
Enjoy your fabulous brunch or breakfast with any (or all!) of these gourmet French toast recipes!
