Crunchy Vanilla-Almond French Toast Recipe
Prep Time: 12 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes
Servings: 6
Description
If you’re looking to elevate your breakfast or brunch with a deliciously crunchy twist, this Vanilla-Almond French Toast recipe is a must-try. Featured on 30 Minute Meals, this recipe brings together the smooth richness of a custard base with a golden, crispy coating of cornflakes and almonds. While the original recipe is topped with fresh fruit and a splash of orange liqueur, we’ve opted to keep it simple, but feel free to experiment with those extra toppings for a delightful burst of flavor. This dish offers the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, making it an indulgent treat for any time of the day.
Recipe Category
Breads, Breakfast, Sweet, Brunch
Keywords
Breakfast, Sweet, Brunch, < 60 Mins, Oven, Easy
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Eggs | 8 |
| Half-and-half | 1 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Cornflakes | 1/2 cup |
| Sliced almonds | 4 tablespoons |
| Fresh fruit (optional) | As desired |
| Orange liqueur (optional) | As desired |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 546.6 kcal |
| Fat | 27.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 358.1 mg |
| Sodium | 711.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 55.1 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3.5 g |
| Sugars | 4.1 g |
| Protein | 19.9 g |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the French toast bakes perfectly at the end for that deliciously crisp texture. -
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow dish, beat together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla extract, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon using a wire whisk. This mixture will be the base for soaking the bread, giving it a rich, flavorful custard. -
Prepare the Coating:
In a second shallow dish, combine the cornflakes and sliced almonds. The combination of these two ingredients creates a crunchy, nutty coating that makes this French toast irresistible. The cornflakes offer texture, while the almonds add a hint of nuttiness. -
Heat the Skillet:
Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Let the butter melt and begin to bubble gently, which signals that the skillet is ready for cooking. -
Coat the Bread:
Coat 4 to 6 slices of bread (depending on the size of your skillet) in the prepared egg mixture, making sure each slice is soaked well on both sides. Then, dip the egg-soaked bread into the cornflake and almond mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks. -
Cook the French Toast:
Place the bread slices into the hot skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Once each slice is cooked, transfer it to a cookie sheet lined with foil for easy clean-up. -
Bake the Toast:
After all the slices have been cooked in the skillet, transfer the cookie sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. This will ensure the French toast becomes extra crispy while maintaining its soft, custard-like interior. -
Serve:
Remove the French toast from the oven, and if desired, top it with fresh fruit and a splash of orange liqueur for a gourmet touch. You can also add a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for Perfect Crunchy Vanilla-Almond French Toast
- Bread Selection: Choose thick slices of bread such as brioche, challah, or Texas toast for a richer texture. The thicker slices help absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Customization: Feel free to add more nuts or use a combination of other cereals (like granola) for the coating to suit your preferences.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the egg mixture and store it in the fridge overnight, making the morning prep even quicker. Just dip and cook when you’re ready to serve.
- Toppings: If you’re in the mood for more flair, consider topping the French toast with whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or a scoop of ice cream for a dessert-style breakfast treat.
This indulgent French toast is a deliciously fun twist on the classic, perfect for serving to family or guests at your next brunch or breakfast gathering. With the rich custard soak, crispy coating, and customizable toppings, it’s sure to be a hit every time.
