Key Takeaway: Elevate your brunch experience with thick and indulgent French toast at a fraction of the cost you’d pay at a restaurant.
Ever wondered why brunch bills add up so quickly? French toast, a seemingly simple dish, can often be overpriced at cafes. But what if you could enjoy thick, luscious French toast for a price that won’t break the bank? Let’s show you how to make this decadent brunch item affordably at home.
Crafting Your Girthy French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need
Girthy French Toast:
- 2 loaves of unsliced white bread
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1 tbsp (14g) instant yeast
- 2 egg yolks + 2 whole eggs
- 2 tbsp (26g) granulated sugar
- 5 cups (750g) bread flour
- 3 tsp (18g) fine sea salt
- 5 tbsp (70g) softened unsalted butter
Custard Soak:
- 3 whole eggs + 2 egg yolks
- Pinch of allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg
- 2 tbsp (26g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups (350ml) whole milk
Assembly and Cooking:
- Butter for cooking
- Optional toppings: melted butter, maple syrup, toasted marshmallow hot chocolate sauce, vanilla ice cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Making Girthy French Toast Loaves
- Combine water, milk, and yeast (heated to 95°F) in a bowl. Add eggs and sugar, whisk until dissolved.
- In a large bowl, mix bread flour and salt. Gradually add the liquid mixture, kneading until smooth.
- Incorporate softened butter and knead until dough is supple. Proof the dough until doubled in size.
- Shape dough into loaves, proof again until slightly above loaf pan edges. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes.
2. Preparing Custard Soak
- Whisk eggs, egg yolks, spices, and sugar until blended. Stir in cream and milk until creamy and spiced custard forms.
3. Cooking Girthy French Toast
- Slice cooled bread into 3-4 inch thick pieces. Dip each slice into custard, soaking well on both sides.
- Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook soaked bread slices until golden brown on both sides.
- Transfer to a preheated oven and bake at 375°F for 7-10 minutes until fully cooked through.
Serving Your Girthy French Toast
- Serve warm French toast with your choice of toppings: traditional butter and syrup, or indulge with toasted marshmallow hot chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream.
- Customize your toppings to create a unique brunch experience that’s both satisfying and affordable.
Conclusion: A Brunch Favorite Made Affordable
Elevate your brunch game with homemade girthy French toast that rivals any restaurant version—without the hefty price tag. By using simple ingredients and following straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy thick, moist French toast that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Save money and impress your friends and family with this delicious brunch treat. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or treating yourself to a luxurious breakfast, this recipe delivers on both taste and value.
Take pride in creating a gourmet brunch at home—it’s easier and more affordable than you think. Experiment with different toppings and enjoy the rich flavors of this classic dish elevated to new heights.
Get ready to savor every bite of this indulgent French toast—it’s proof that a little effort in the kitchen can result in a big payoff at the breakfast table. Bon appétit!
Now, go ahead, whip up a batch of girthy French toast, and enjoy a brunch experience that’s as budget-friendly as it is delicious. Your taste buds will thank you!