The Ultimate French Toast Recipe

Challah is a traditional Jewish bread eaten on Shabbat and Jewish holidays (except Passover, when leavened bread is not allowed). This association with Judaism is most prevalent in the United States, as challah is also a traditional bread in numerous European countries, such as Hungary, among local non-Jewish peasant populations.

I like challah because it makes the most amazing French toast. This rich egg bread dipped in a cinnamon and vanilla flavored custard, then pan sautéed in lots of butter will keep your tummy happy all day long.

• 6 extra large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups half-and-half or milk
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 large loaf challah*
• Unsalted butter

To serve:

• Pure maple syrup
• Good raspberry preserves (optional)
• Sifted confectioners' sugar (optional)

Directions

In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, cinnamon and vanilla. Slice the challah in 3/4-inch thick slices. Soak as many slices in the egg mixture as possible for five minutes, turning once.

Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a very large saute pan over medium heat. Add the soaked bread and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until nicely browned. Place the cooked French toast on a sheet pan and keep it warm in the oven. Fry the remaining soaked bread slices, adding butter and oil as needed, until it's all cooked. Serve hot with maple syrup, raspberry preserves and/or confectioners' sugar.

We serve Challah bread french toast for catered brunches! For more information, visit www.sagracatering.com.

*Challah is a specialty bread, so it's not available everywhere. Locally, however, you can pick up a loaf at your favorite Wegmans store.