When it comes to whipping up something quick for a weekend brunch, a killer French toast has always been a lifesaver. One of my fave chefs (who has some seriously killer heels), Marcela Valladolid, highlighted a recipe for Cinnamon Pan Frances on a recent episode of The Nate Show that I knew would be perfect for a weekend brunch.
I made a few changes to the recipe – notably while she used Mexican crema, sadly, I can’t seem to find it in my neck of the woods so I used a mixture of crème fraiche and heavy cream. I also never really have whole milk in the fridge so low-fat had to suffice. Also – any chance I have to break out my Mexican Vanilla
Now – growing up I was a big fan of cinnamon toast and this was a more grown-up version that will be in the tried and true file.
Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup low-fat milk
- 2 tablespoons crème fraiche
- 2 tablespoons of heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon Mexican vanilla extract
- 1 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 loaf of challah, sliced thickly
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for serving
- Maple syrup
Directions
- In a baking dish, whisk the eggs, milk, crème fraiche, heavy cream, vanilla, 1 teaspoon of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon together.
- Add the bread and let it soak for a minute or two, then turn over and let it soak for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- On a plate, mix the remaining cup of sugar and tablespoon of cinnamon and set aside.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 4 of the soaked bread slices and cook until golden brown on each side – about 3-4 minutes a side.
- Transfer to the cinnamon sugar plate and turn to coat. Set aside.
- Continue with the next batch of bread, batter and butter and repeat the steps above.
- Serve with maple syrup and enjoy!
Notes
Adapted from Marcela Valladolid
Gather the ingredients
Is there anything better than Challah?
Time to Soak
This batch is the perfect shade of gold
Brunch is served
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This is a recipe that everyone needs in their files. Your instructions are excellent, too!
Jackie recently posted..Well Worth the Wait(Recipe: Orange and Rosemary Braised Pork Shanks)
Thanks Jackie!
Aly M. recently posted..Tried and True: Cinnamon Pan Frances
Twitter: one_curly_fry
says:
This looks delicious! I’m going to have to try this very soon. I’ve never had Challah before!!
jen recently posted..Let Them Eat Cake ~ Under the Big Top
Ahhh – Challah is a whole ‘nother world, my friend. Sweet, eggy and just perfect for french toast. Love that stuff!
Aly M. recently posted..Giada de Laurentiis Heads Back To Philly For Weeknights With Giada
Amazing! I have always wanted to make french toast with challah bread!
The Gourmet Student recently posted..Spiced Carrot Salad with Pumpkin Seeds
Okay, I’ve only ever made very boring french toast before, so I may have to try this. It looks incredible. I can’t wait to check out more recipes here- I’m in such a cooking rut lately. Thanks for stopping by on my SITS day to visit!
Craftwhack recently posted..Eat Yer Veggies, Kids! GIVEAWAY ACTION!