| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 735 | 32g | 14g | 90g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 44g | 4g | 20g | 0.7g |
True to its roots, the Vanilla Bean French Toast is an ode to Midwestern comfort, crafted with love and simplicity. This delectable recipe reminds me of the Sunday after-church breakfasts served in my native Nebraska where basic ingredients transform into something wondrously delightful.
A Sindwinder of Flavors
What makes Vanilla Bean French Toast phenomenal is its ability to marry diverse flavors so effortlessly, much like the farm-fresh meals ubiquitous in the heartland. Cooking this recipe will take you on a gastronomical journey to the Midwest and beyond, as it draws from both Jewish (Challah bread as its base) and French (French toast) culinary traditions.
In Good Health
The recipe is not just wholesome in its indulgence, but the ingredients pack a punch of nutrition as well. For instance, eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals, while whole milk contains important nutrients like calcium, vitamin D and potassium. Fresh fruits add a layer of antioxidants, fiber, and natural sweetness to the recipe. The nutritious value found in the mix of these ingredients brings in a reassurance that despite our gourmet indulgence, we are not straying away from the path of health.
The Vanilla Bean French Toast makes for a perfect brunch dish, evoking warm memories of home and family gatherings. You can serve it alongside crispy Bacon, golden Hash Browns, or a hearty serving of scrambled eggs. Larger families, like the one I dream of having, may appreciate an extra dash of maple syrup or perhaps a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar for a unique spin.
Overall, this flavor-rich recipe always takes me back to my roots while permitting room for new culinary adventures, much like the cinnamon-spiced French toast equally rich and cozy.
Vanilla Bean French Toast is, without a doubt, a celebration of food, family, and heartfelt memories. May it fill your home with warmth and your heart with joy, just like it does mine.
What You’ll Need
- 12 slices of thick-cut Challah or Brioche Bread
- 8 large Eggs
- 2 cups of Whole Milk
- 1/2 cup of Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup of Granulated Sugar
- 1/2 cup of Light Brown Sugar
- 2 Vanilla Beans
- 1 tablespoon of pure Vanilla Extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground Nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of Salt
- Butter, for greasing
- Maple Syrup, for serving
- Fresh Fruits (strawberries, blueberries, etc.) for topping
Method
Step One
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Use butter to lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside. Lay out your slices of thick-cut Challah or Brioche bread on a flat surface.
Step Two
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the large eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until well combined. Ensure that there are no lumps left in the mixture.
Step Three
Take the vanilla beans and split them lengthwise using a sharp knife, then use the back of the knife to scrape out the seeds. Add both the seeds and the split beans to the egg mixture. Whisk in the pure vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and salt until everything is well blended.
Step Four
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure each side is well coated. Then place the soaked bread slices in the prepared baking dish. Pour any leftover egg mixture evenly over the bread.
Step Five
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the tops of the bread slices are golden brown and the French Toast has set.
Step Six
Remove the French Toast from the oven and let it cool a little. Serve warm, with a generous drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of butter on top. Add fresh fruits of your choice for extra flavour and texture. Enjoy your Vanilla Bean French Toast!
