Today, we’re taking a beloved Jewish staple—challah—and turning it into a brunch masterpiece: Challah French Toast. This charming dish is as delightful as it is nostalgic, perfect for a cozy Sunday breakfast that brings family and friends together.
A Little Slice of Tradition
Challah isn’t just any bread—it’s a symbol of our rich culinary heritage. With its tender crumb and golden crust, it’s ideally suited for soaking up a luscious custard. Whether you’re celebrating Shabbat, a holiday, or simply a lazy weekend morning, our Challah French Toast is sure to make your heart (and taste buds) sing.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create your masterpiece:
- Challah Bread: 1 loaf (preferably a day or two old, so it soaks up the custard beautifully)
- Eggs: 4 large eggs
- Milk: 1 cup (feel free to use a dairy alternative for a non-dairy twist)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (for a hint of sweetness)
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (for that warm, inviting aroma)
- Ground Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon (because a little spice never hurt anyone)
- Salt: A pinch (to balance the flavors)
- Butter or Oil: For frying (choose your favorite to crisp up your toast)
- Toppings (optional): Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or even a dollop of kosher yogurt
How to Create Your Culinary Masterpiece
Step 1: Slice and Set
Start by slicing your challah into thick, generous pieces—about 1-inch slices work perfectly. Lay them out on a plate, ready to be transformed.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Magic
In a large bowl, crack the eggs and add the milk. Sprinkle in the sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and inviting. Think of it as your golden elixir that will infuse every bite with flavor.
Step 3: Soak and Smile
Gently dip each slice of challah into your egg mixture, ensuring every nook and cranny is well-soaked. Allow the bread to sit in the mixture for about 20-30 seconds per side. This step is key—it’s what makes your French toast irresistibly tender on the inside while crispy on the outside.
Step 4: Sizzle in the Skillet
Heat a generous knob of butter (or a splash of oil) in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the soaked challah slices. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until you achieve a gorgeous golden-brown color. The sizzling sound is the melody of a job well done!
Step 5: Plate and Perk Up
Transfer your French toast to a serving plate. Now, here’s where you get creative: dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and top with fresh berries. Or, serve it alongside a bowl of your favorite fruit for an extra burst of flavor.
A Toast to Tradition
There you have it—a simple yet sublime Challah French Toast that brings together the warmth of Jewish tradition and the delight of a modern brunch. It’s perfect for family gatherings, lazy Sundays, or any time you want to celebrate life with a touch of sweetness and a dash of history.
Enjoy every bite, and let your taste buds take a joyous journey through our rich culinary heritage. Shabbat Shalom, and happy cooking!
Feel free to experiment with your toppings and share your creations with us at JewishRecipes.com—we love seeing how you put your personal spin on these cherished recipes!
