Challah French Toast: The Ultimate Weekend Treat

Thick slices of rich challah bread are soaked in a spiced vanilla custard and pan-fried to golden perfection. This Challah French Toast is fluffy, buttery, and lightly sweet, making it the perfect comfort breakfast for any weekend morning.

Imagine waking up on a lazy weekend morning, the aroma of cinnamon, vanilla, and toasted bread filling the air. Few breakfasts rival the comfort of Challah French Toast, with its fluffy center, crispy edges, and subtle sweetness that transforms a morning meal into an indulgence. Originating in France but made with challah, a traditional Jewish bread, this twist elevates classic French toast with a rich, eggy foundation. The dish pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, warm syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, making it perfect for family breakfasts or elegant brunch gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich & Flavorful: The challah adds an extra richness, making each bite soft, custardy, and flavorful.
• Easy to Make: Breakfast will be ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep and simple ingredients.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This recipe will impress for a holiday brunch or a weekend treat.

Nutrition Information:

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf challah bread, sliced 1-inch thick
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp butter for cooking
• Maple syrup, powdered sugar, and fresh berries for serving

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Challah Bread: This recipe’s star is challah, a sweet, soft bread perfect for soaking up the egg mixture. If the challah is unavailable, substitute it with brioche.
• Milk or Half-and-Half: Provides a creamy texture. For a lighter option, use almond or oat milk.
• Vanilla & Cinnamon: These add warmth and a hint of sweetness. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for extra depth.

How to Make Challah French Toast (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

Whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon in a bowl. The goal is a smooth, custardy mixture that will coat the bread evenly.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

Slice the challah into 1-inch thick pieces, ensuring each slice soaks up the egg mixture. Let each side of the bread soak for around 10-15 seconds for the perfect balance between moist and crispy.

Step 3: Cook on Medium Heat

Heat your skillet over medium and melt a small amount of butter. Add the soaked challah slices to the skillet, cooking each side until golden brown.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Transfer the cooked French toast to a serving plate and add toppings like syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for a pop of color and flavor.

Expert Tips for Success

• Use Stale Bread: Day-old challah absorbs the custard mixture better, yielding a richer texture.
• Cook on Medium Heat: This prevents the toast from burning on the outside while staying undercooked inside.
• Add a Dash of Nutmeg or Orange Zest: For a unique twist, add a little nutmeg or zest for a bright flavor boost.

Variations and Customizations

• Lighter Option: Use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk and reduce sugar for a lighter, dairy-free version.
• Extra Flavor: Mix a tablespoon of orange zest or a splash of orange juice into the custard mixture.
• Stuffed French Toast: Add a layer of cream cheese and jam between two challah slices before dipping them in the custard.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers: For up to 3 days, store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in a toaster oven to regain its crispiness. Alternatively, warm it in a skillet over low heat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Challah French Toast with fresh berries, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup. For a complete breakfast, serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage and a refreshing mimosa or fresh juice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use other bread if I don’t have challah?
A: Brioche is an excellent substitute with a similar sweetness and texture.

Q: How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk, and opt for dairy-free butter or cooking spray.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: You can make the custard mixture the night before and soak the bread right before cooking. This will save you time in the morning.

Related Recipes

• Brioche French Toast – Try this variation with rich brioche bread.
• Stuffed French Toast – Take your French toast to the next level with a cream cheese and berry filling.
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast – Add an extra swirl of cinnamon and sugar for a decadent twist.

Conclusion

Indulging in Challah French Toast is more than just breakfast; it’s an experience. Its rich texture, buttery flavor, and light sweetness make it a beloved dish across breakfast tables. This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks, with simple ingredients and easy steps. Try this recipe on your next weekend morning or brunch gathering, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a comforting and delicious meal!

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