Almond Brioche French Toast
If youโre looking to elevate your breakfast game, this Almond Brioche French Toast is your ticket to morning bliss. With its fluffy interior and crispy almond crust, itโs a delightful twist on the classic. Perfect for a weekend treat or to impress your brunch guests!
Ingredients for Almond Brioche French Toast
Brioche bread is the star here, offering a tender and airy texture thatโs ideal for soaking up the egg mixture. Eggs provide the custardy base that coats the bread, while whole milk and heavy cream add richness. A splash of vanilla extract brings warmth, and almond extract gives that nutty touch. Sliced almonds add crunch, and unsalted butter ensures a golden, crispy finish. For a touch of elegance, dust with confectioners' sugar and drizzle with maple syrup. Add fresh berries if you like a pop of color and freshness.
Almond Brioche French Toast Tips & Tricks
- Use slightly stale brioche for best absorption โ it won't fall apart as easily.
- Keep the heat to medium to prevent burning the almonds.
- Test the skillet heat by dropping a small piece of bread; it should sizzle gently, not furiously.
Serving Ideas for Almond Brioche French Toast
This French toast pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of crispy bacon. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a simple fruit salad of berries and melon.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use non-dairy milk?
- Absolutely, almond or oat milk can work well, though it may alter the taste slightly.
- What if I don't have brioche?
- Challah or any rich, soft bread can be a good substitute.
- Can I make this ahead of time?
- It's best fresh, but you can soak the bread in advance and refrigerate. Cook right before serving.
Almond Brioche French Toast Recipe Walkthrough
Start by grabbing a shallow dish, which is perfect for dunking your bread. Crack the eggs into the dish and whisk them together with the milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract. This mixture should be smooth and well combined to properly soak into the bread.
Next, take each slice of brioche bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure both sides get a nice soak, but don't let them get too soggy. You want them saturated but still holding their structure.
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Let the butter melt completely, creating a perfect sizzling base for the bread. Place the soaked brioche slices in the skillet, cooking each side for 3-4 minutes, until theyโre golden brown.
During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle sliced almonds over the top. This gives a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor. Once done, remove the slices from the skillet and let them cool slightly. For that finishing touch, dust with confectioners' sugar and serve with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. Add some fresh berries if you like.
Why This Almond Brioche French Toast Works
- Brioche brings a rich, buttery flavor that ordinary bread just can't match.
- The hint of almond adds a sophisticated twist.
- Quick and simple, yet perfect for a special occasion.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
- 4 slices brioche bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp almond extract
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp confectioners' sugar (for dusting)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Fresh berries (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and almond extract until well combined.
- 2. Dip each slice of brioche bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated.
- 3. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter.
- 4. Once the butter is melted and sizzling, place the soaked brioche slices into the skillet.
- 5. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- 6. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top of each toast during the last minute of cooking.
- 7. Remove from skillet and let cool slightly. Dust with confectioners' sugar and serve with maple syrup and optional fresh berries.