| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 365 | 22g | 9g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 2g | 9g | 0.37g |
As a food lover raised in a home where the flavors of Southern America and West Africa danced in every meal, I’ve come to cherish ingredients that awaken one’s senses. In the realm of sweet yet savory dishes, a stand-out favorite of mine is Vanilla French Toast. Warm, fluffy, and drenched in a cascade of sweet syrup and fresh berries, this recipe is a testament to the beauty of a well-executed breakfast. In the world of culinary arts, a good food experience transcends the art of just satisfying hunger. It sparks conversations and camaraderie, it evokes nostalgia and creates new memories. Vanilla French Toast does all that and more.
A Twist on a Classic Dish
What sets this Vanilla French Toast recipe apart is the infusion of pure vanilla extract and a hint of ground cinnamon, adding a unique complexity to each bite. Anyone familiar with Cinnamon Toast, another classic breakfast dish, will certainly find a comforting similarity here, with the Vanilla French Toast offering a richer, more indulgent experience thanks to the creamy milk and egg mixture.
When paired with dishes that carry a bit of a zesty flavor profile–such as my Afro-Southern take on a Shrimp and Grits–the Vanilla French Toast offers a subtle and sweet counterbalance making your meal harmoniously complete.
Not Just a Delight, but a Healthy Bite
Regardless of how delicious a recipe is, its nutritional value should never be neglected. Vanilla French Toast isn’t just tantalizing to the taste buds, it is also packed with health benefits. The whole milk and eggs contribute to a good dose of our daily protein quota, vital for building and maintaining healthy muscles. The fresh berries, being a source of antioxidants, can help in fighting inflammation. Plus, did you know that pure maple syrup contains important minerals, including manganese and zinc?
With an enticing blend of sweetness and familiarity, a balanced nutritional profile, and an unmistakable comfort food aura, Vanilla French Toast will surely bring a delightfully satisfying start to your day!
What You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 6 slices of bread (preferably thickly sliced french bread)
- 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
First, grab a large bowl and whisk together the whole milk, heavy cream, large eggs, granulated sugar, pure vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt.
Step Two
Next, dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, soaking both sides thoroughly. Let any excess mixture drip off the bread slices back into the bowl.
Step Three
In a large skillet or non-stick frying pan, melt 2 tablespoons of the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Step Four
Once the butter is melted and starting to sizzle, add the soaked bread slices. Cook the bread slices for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Repeat this process with the remaining butter and soaked bread slices.
Step Five
After the French toast is cooked, divide the slices among individual serving plates. Top each serving with a generous helping of fresh berries, and drizzle over the pure maple syrup.
Step Six
For a final touch, garnish the Vanilla French Toast with some fresh mint leaves if desired. Your delicious Vanilla French Toast is now ready to be enjoyed! Bon Appétit!
