Crispy Almond Crunch French Toast – Easy and Delicious
Crispy Almond Crunch French Toast is an easy and delicious breakfast made with thick-cut bread, warm cinnamon-vanilla custard, and crunchy sliced almonds. Golden and crisp on the outside while tender inside, it’s perfect with maple syrup and fresh berries.
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread — slightly day-old works best
- 3 large eggs — creates a rich and tender custard
- ¾ cup whole milk — adds creaminess
- 1 tsp vanilla extract — adds warm flavor
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon — adds cozy spice
- 2 tbsp brown sugar — adds caramel-like sweetness
- 1 pinch salt — balances the sweetness
- 1 cup sliced almonds — creates the crispy coating
- 2 tbsp butter — for cooking
- ¼ cup maple syrup — for serving
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar — optional for garnish
- 1 cup fresh berries — optional for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the almond coating: Place the sliced almonds in a shallow dish and gently break up any very large pieces so they can coat the bread evenly.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Dip the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly. Do not soak the bread for too long, or it may become too soft.
- Coat with almonds: Immediately press both sides of each soaked bread slice into the sliced almonds. Gently press the almonds onto the bread so they stick well.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Make sure the skillet is hot but not smoking before adding the French toast.
- Cook the first side: Place the almond-coated bread into the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and finish cooking: Carefully flip each slice and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the second side is golden and the French toast is cooked through.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the French toast to serving plates. Dust with powdered sugar, add fresh berries, and drizzle generously with maple syrup.
Notes
- For the crispiest results: Use thick-cut brioche, challah, or another sturdy bread. Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
- Don't oversoak: A quick dip on both sides is enough. Over-soaking can make the bread difficult to cook through.
- Keep the heat moderate: Medium heat allows the almonds to become beautifully golden and crunchy without burning.
- Serving idea: Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, powdered sugar, or sliced bananas.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Total Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
- Sodium: 430 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Dietary Fiber: 5 g
- Total Sugars: 20 g
- Protein: 15 g