Crispy Southern-Style French Toast
This Crispy Southern-Style French Toast recipe is a nostalgic family favorite that brings a delightful twist to a classic breakfast. The thick-cut French bread is enveloped in a light, crispy batter that yields a golden exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Perfect for special occasions or weekend brunches, it's served best drizzled with warm syrup and a pat of butter. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a charming finish, or try experimenting with exotic seasonings like Ming Tsai's 8-Spice Powder for a unique flavor profile that adds warmth and depth to every bite.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
flour
1 cup (sifted)
baking powder
1 teaspoon (none)
eggs
4 (beaten)
milk
1/2 cup (none)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon (none)
cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon (or use Ming Tsai's 8-Spice Powder)
thick-cut French bread
8 slices (cut into slices, about 1-inch thick)
oil
to fry (vegetable or canola oil recommended)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, combine the sifted flour and baking powder, whisking to blend well.
2
In another bowl, beat the eggs until frothy, then add the flour mixture, mixing until it forms a smooth batter.
3
Gradually whisk in the milk until the batter reaches a consistency similar to pancake batter.
4
Stir in the vanilla extract and cinnamon (or Ming Tsai's 8-Spice Powder) until fully incorporated.
5
Heat a large frying pan over medium heat and pour in enough oil to create a 1/2-inch depth.
6
Once the oil is hot, dip each slice of French bread into the batter, ensuring it's evenly coated on both sides.
7
Carefully place the battered bread into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
8
Use tongs to flip the slices and check for doneness, then remove from the pan and drain on paper towels.
9
Once drained, sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve with warm syrup and a pat of butter.
10
For an exotic flavor, consider using Ming Tsai's 8-Spice Powder instead of traditional cinnamon.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Southern-Style French Toast?
It is a nostalgic family favorite breakfast dish featuring thick-cut French bread enveloped in a light, crispy batter for a golden exterior and soft interior.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Thick-cut French bread, specifically slices about 1-inch thick, is best for this recipe.
How should the flour be prepared?
The flour should be sifted before being combined with the baking powder.
What are the primary ingredients for the batter?
The batter consists of sifted flour, baking powder, beaten eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
How many eggs are required for the batter?
You will need 4 eggs, beaten until frothy.
What is the recommended amount of milk?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of milk.
What should the batter consistency look like?
The batter should be whisked until it reaches a consistency similar to pancake batter.
Can I use spices other than cinnamon?
Yes, for a unique flavor profile, you can substitute cinnamon with Ming Tsai's 8-Spice Powder.
How much vanilla extract is used?
The recipe uses 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
What is the first step in making the batter?
In a medium bowl, combine the sifted flour and baking powder, whisking them together well.
How do I incorporate the eggs into the batter?
Beat the eggs until frothy in a separate bowl, then add the flour mixture and mix until smooth.
How much oil should be used for frying?
You should pour enough oil into a large frying pan to create a depth of approximately 1/2-inch.
What type of oil is recommended?
Vegetable or canola oil are recommended for frying the French toast.
At what temperature should the French toast be fried?
The French toast should be fried in a pan heated over medium heat.
How do I coat the bread slices?
Dip each slice into the batter, ensuring that it is evenly coated on both sides before frying.
How long does it take to fry each side?
Each side typically takes 2 to 3 minutes to become golden brown and crispy.
How do I know the French toast is ready to be removed?
It is ready when both sides are golden brown and the exterior has a crispy texture.
What tool should I use to handle the bread in the pan?
Use tongs to carefully flip the slices and check for doneness.
What should I do with the toast immediately after frying?
Remove the slices from the pan and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
What are the traditional toppings for this dish?
It is best served sprinkled with powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm syrup, and a pat of butter.
Is this recipe suitable for brunch?
Yes, its crispy texture and sweet flavor make it an excellent choice for weekend brunches.
Can I make this for a family breakfast?
Absolutely, it is described as a nostalgic family favorite and comfort food.
Does this French toast have a soft center?
Yes, the recipe results in a soft, fluffy interior contrasted by a crispy exterior.
What is the recipe category?
This recipe falls under the Breakfast category.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients used in this preparation.
What amount of baking powder is needed?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
What amount of cinnamon is used?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon.
Can I prepare the batter in advance?
The instructions suggest preparing the batter immediately before frying for the best results.
What is the overall flavor profile of this dish?
It is a sweet, warm, and comforting breakfast dish with notes of vanilla and cinnamon.