If you’re craving a sweet, comforting breakfast that brings a delightful twist on a classic, this Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s rich and golden on the outside, with a luscious peanut butter and jam filling that melts right in your mouth, capturing the cozy, nostalgic flavors of a beloved Hong Kong street snack – all in just a few simple steps. Whether you’re new to this style or a longtime fan, this recipe offers a perfect balance of indulgence and ease that makes breakfast feel like a special occasion any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a unique role to build the perfect taste, texture, and inviting color that define Hong Kong-style French toast. From creamy peanut butter to a hint of cinnamon, every component brings something special to your plate.
- 2 slices white bread (preferably thick-cut): Thick slices hold the filling well and develop a beautifully crispy crust.
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (or almond butter): Adds creamy richness and a slight nuttiness to contrast the sweet jam.
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam (or your favorite jam): Provides a fruity sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buttery bread.
- 1 egg, beaten: Creates the golden, custardy coating once combined with the milk.
- 1/4 cup milk (or any plant-based milk): Lightens the egg mixture and keeps the coating tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional): Adds a subtle spice that enhances the overall warmth of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying): Ensures a golden brown and crispy finish with rich flavor.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): Adds a delicate touch of sweetness and an elegant finish.
- Maple syrup (for serving): Perfect for dipping and amplifying the luscious flavors.
How to Make Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Assemble the Sandwich
Start by spreading the peanut butter onto one slice of the thick-cut white bread and your chosen jam onto the other. When you press these two slices together, you’re creating a deliciously gooey center that contrasts beautifully with the crisp bread exterior. This simple step sets the stage for the flavors to meld perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk the beaten egg with milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if you like that extra hint of spice. This mixture not only imparts flavor but forms the magical coating that crisps up into a gorgeous golden crust when fried.
Step 3: Coat the Sandwich
Gently dip the assembled sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure that both sides soak up enough liquid to create that luscious, custardy layer. The bread should absorb the mixture but not become soggy—a delicate balance for that iconic Hong Kong-style crunch.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden
Heat the butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place your coated sandwich in the pan and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a crispy, golden brown exterior with a tender, warm filling inside. The smell at this point is totally irresistible!
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once fried to perfection, remove the sandwich from the pan and dust it lightly with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Serve your creation warm alongside some maple syrup for dipping, offering that signature touch of sweetness every bite deserves.
How to Serve Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe, dust it evenly with powdered sugar right before serving. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or add a few fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and some textural contrast. A light drizzle of honey or extra maple syrup is always a crowd-pleaser here.
Side Dishes
This french toast pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad or a simple bowl of sliced bananas and strawberries, which lighten up the meal and add natural sweetness. For a more savory balance, consider serving it with some lightly scrambled eggs or crispy bacon strips—offering a perfect sweet-and-savory breakfast experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Cut your Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe into smaller finger-sized pieces and serve them as a fun brunch appetizer with an assortment of dips such as honey, chocolate sauce, or condensed milk. Alternatively, stack several sandwiches and layer them with additional spreads like Nutella for a decadent brunch tower.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This will help maintain the sandwich’s crispiness and prevent the peanut butter and jam from drying out too much.
Freezing
You can freeze the prepared, un-fried sandwiches by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw in the fridge overnight before dipping in the egg mixture and frying fresh.
Reheating
To reheat leftover Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe slices, use a toaster oven or a non-stick pan over low heat rather than a microwave. This method helps restore the golden crispiness without making the bread soggy, keeping the experience just as delightful as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While thick-cut white bread is traditional and best for absorbing the egg mixture, you can try brioche or challah for a richer flavor. Just keep the bread thickness in mind for the best texture.
Is peanut butter necessary, or can I substitute it?
You can swap peanut butter with almond butter, hazelnut spread, or even cream cheese, depending on your preference. Each option brings a unique twist to the classic taste and keeps the sandwich deliciously moist.
What if I don’t want to use cinnamon?
No problem! The cinnamon is optional and only adds a subtle warmth. Leaving it out won’t affect the core flavor of the Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe, but do consider the vanilla extract as your flavor anchor.
Can this recipe be made vegan?
Definitely! Use plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk, and replace the egg with a vegan batter made from chickpea flour or flaxseed. Vegan butter can substitute regular butter for frying. Expect a similar taste experience with these tweaks.
What’s the best way to enjoy the maple syrup with this toast?
Pour maple syrup into a small dipping bowl alongside your French toast. This way, you can control how much you add with each bite and enjoy the sweet contrast without overpowering the sandwich’s other flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of vibrant street food right into your kitchen. Its crisp exterior, creamy center, and harmonious combination of flavors create a breakfast treat that will quickly become a cherished favorite. So go ahead and give it a try—you might just find yourself craving it over and over again!
Print
Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Hong Kong
Description
This Hong Kong-Style French Toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, featuring a rich peanut butter and strawberry jam sandwich dipped in a spiced egg mixture, then fried to golden perfection. Topped with powdered sugar and served with maple syrup, it’s a sweet and crispy treat that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Sandwich
- 2 slices white bread (preferably thick-cut)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (or almond butter)
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam (or your favorite jam)
Egg Mixture
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 cup milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
For Frying and Serving
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Maple syrup (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sandwich: Spread peanut butter on one slice of bread and strawberry jam on the other. Press the slices together to form a sandwich, ensuring the fillings are evenly distributed.
- Mix the Egg Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the beaten egg, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon if using, until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Dip the Sandwich: Fully coat both sides of the sandwich by dipping it into the egg mixture, allowing the bread to soak up the batter but not become too soggy.
- Heat the Pan: Place a frying pan over medium heat and melt the butter until it sizzles but does not brown, providing a rich base for frying.
- Fry the Sandwich: Carefully place the battered sandwich into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping gently, until the bread is golden brown and crispy on both sides.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the French toast from the pan, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm with a side of maple syrup for dipping.
Notes
- Use thick-cut bread to absorb the egg mixture without falling apart.
- Almond butter or other nut butters can substitute peanut butter for different flavors.
- Cinnamon is optional but adds a warm spice note.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust frying time depending on your stove to prevent burning.
