Sweet French toast

Delicious French Toast – Childhood Memories in Every Bite

Who doesn’t fondly remember the French toast made by their grandmother? This simple yet incredibly tasty dessert brings a dose of nostalgia and joy, making it perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack at any time of the day. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing this delicious French toast that will delight your taste buds and bring a smile to your face.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Number of servings: 6 slices

Ingredients

- 6 slices of bread (preferably homemade or slightly stale bread)
- 2 large eggs
- Grated zest of one lemon (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1-2 drops of lemon essence
- 1 packet (or 8 g) vanilla sugar
- 12-18 teaspoons of sugar (2-3 teaspoons for each slice of bread)
- 2 teaspoons of powdered sugar (for sprinkling)

A Glimpse into the History of French Toast

French toast has a long history, being a traditional way to use leftover bread, thus reducing food waste. It is a perfect combination of crispy and soft, with a unique texture due to the mixture of egg and milk. In many cultures, French toast is served both as a dessert and as breakfast, often customized with various flavors and toppings.

Step by Step to Perfect French Toast

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients ready. If you use older bread, it will absorb the egg mixture better and have a better texture.

2. The egg mixture: In a deep bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk or fork. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla sugar, lemon zest, and lemon essence. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

3. Heating the oil: In a deep pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat the oil over medium heat. Test the oil temperature by dropping a bit of the egg mixture – if it sizzles, it’s ready for frying.

4. Preparing the French toast: Take each slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure it is well soaked on both sides. Don’t let it sit too long, as the bread may break down.

5. Frying the French toast: Place the slices of bread in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully flip them.

6. Finishing: Once the French toast is evenly fried, remove them onto an absorbent paper towel to eliminate excess oil. Sprinkle sugar on both sides while they are still warm, so it sticks better.

7. Serving: French toast is delicious served warm, alongside a cup of warm milk or hot chocolate. You can also add fresh fruits, such as banana slices or strawberries, to give them a fresher look.

Tips and Useful Advice

- Type of bread: Use homemade or slightly stale bread, as it absorbs the egg and milk mixture better, providing a better texture. Toast bread is also a good choice.
- Spices: If you want to add extra flavor, you can incorporate a pinch of cinnamon into the egg mixture.
- Variations: You can turn French toast into a gourmet dessert by adding melted chocolate, maple syrup, or chopped nuts. Experiment with different types of bread or add a spoonful of Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Oil care: Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature; otherwise, the French toast may become soggy or fry unevenly.

Nutritional Benefits

These French toasts are not only delicious but also a good source of protein due to the eggs. Additionally, the lemon adds a boost of vitamin C, and sugar, though consumed in moderation, provides the energy needed for an active day. However, it is important to enjoy them in moderation, considering the calorie content.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can French toast be frozen? Yes, you can freeze French toast, but it is recommended to consume them fresh to maintain the crispy texture.
- How can I make French toast healthier? Use organic eggs and replace sugar with a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup, to reduce calorie content.
- Can I add other flavors? Of course! You can experiment with vanilla, almond essences, or even liqueurs for an interesting and complex taste.

Serving Recommendations

French toast can be enjoyed alongside a variety of hot beverages, such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. You can also add a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert. By combining this French toast with a fruit smoothie or fresh orange juice, you can transform a simple meal into a royal breakfast.

In conclusion, French toast is not just an easy recipe to prepare but also a perfect way to bring a little joy and beautiful memories into each day. So, allow yourself to enjoy this simple yet delicious dessert, and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite variations. Enjoy!