So, there’s this magical moment when breakfast meets lunch, and it’s called the Monte Cristo—but, like, French toast style. Here’s my unpretentious love letter to decadence with crispy bread, melty cheese, and layers of ham that are just calling for a maple syrup drizzle!
I love preparing mouthwatering breakfast dishes, and my French Toast Sandwiches are a tantalizing twist I know you’ll love. Made with brioche or challah, and stuffed with creamy cheese and savory ham, these sandwiches are rich in protein and a fabulous way to start the day.
What really sets them apart, though, is that subtle hint of vanilla and cinnamon. If you want to gild the lily, serve them with maple syrup, or eat them just as they are, because they are so good.
French Toast Sandwiches Recipe Ingredients
– Brioche or Challah Bread: Rich in carbohydrates, these breads absorb the custard well, providing a sweet, fluffy base.
– Eggs: High in protein, they help bind the ingredients and add richness to the dish.
– Milk: Adds creaminess and is a source of calcium and protein, making the custard mixture smooth.
– Vanilla Extract: Brings a sweet, aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
– Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spice note and is rich in antioxidants.
– Ham or Turkey: Offers savory protein, balancing the sweetness of the custard.
– Cheese: Melts beautifully, adding depth with its creamy, savory taste.
French Toast Sandwiches Recipe Ingredient Quantities
- 4 slices of bread (preferably brioche or challah)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter (for cooking)
- 4 slices of ham or turkey
- 4 slices of cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
How to Make this French Toast Sandwiches Recipe
1. In a bowl that isn’t deep, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a small amount of salt. Whisk them together until they’re mostly one color.
2. Warm a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat and toss in a small knob of butter to gloss the inside surface.
3. Soak each slice of bread in the mixture of egg, allowing it to infuse for a few seconds per side, so that it is thoroughly coated but not so mushy that it loses its breadness.
4. Put two slices of bread in the hot skillet and cook them for 2-3 minutes, until the side touching the skillet is golden brown.
5. Turn over both pieces of bread and promptly put a portion of cheese on each one.
6. Put a slice of ham or turkey on top of the cheese.
7. After the bottoms are golden brown and the cheese starts to melt, pile one slice on top of the other to make a sandwich.
8. Take the remaining slices of cheese and ham or turkey and the other slice of bread. From this point, do the same thing as before. You should have a total of two sandwiches when you’re finished.
9. If desired, each sandwich may be sliced in half and served warm.
10. You can serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet yet savory finish.
French Toast Sandwiches Recipe Equipment Needed
1. Shallow bowl
2. Whisk
3. Non-stick frying pan or griddle
4. Spatula
5. Measuring cup
6. Measuring spoons
FAQ
-
Can I use a different type of bread for the French Toast Sandwich?
Yes, you can use any bread you prefer, but brioche or challah will give you the best texture and flavor. -
What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
You can substitute with almond extract or skip it entirely, although it adds a nice hint of flavor. -
Is it necessary to use both ham and cheese?
No, you can customize the filling to your preference. You can use just one or even add other ingredients like cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables. -
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sandwiches and store them in the fridge before cooking. Cook them when you’re ready to serve. -
What is the best way to serve the French Toast Sandwiches?
They are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a side of maple syrup for dipping or a fresh fruit salad.
French Toast Sandwiches Recipe Substitutions and Variations
Regarding bread: Alternatives include sourdough or a thick white loaf.
Milk for: Substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
For vanilla extract: Substitute almond extract or a bit of orange zest for a different flavor profile.
When using nutmeg or allspice, they can be compensated in a 1:1 ratio for their similar flavor profiles to that of cinnamon. If you are looking for something different, consider fenugreek, powdered or roasted green cardamom. Both spices will not only give your dish a warm flavor but also something akin to cinnamon’s sweetness.
For ham or turkey: Use crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Pro Tips
1. Choose the Right Bread: For best results, use day-old brioche or challah. Their slightly stale texture will absorb the egg mixture more effectively without becoming overly soggy.
2. Infuse Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a bit of orange zest to the egg mixture for an extra layer of flavor that complements the cinnamon and vanilla.
3. Use Medium-Low Heat: When cooking the bread, use medium-low heat to ensure the bread cooks through without burning. This also allows the cheese to melt nicely without the bread cooking too quickly.
4. Experiment with Cheese Varieties: Try using a combination of cheeses, like Swiss and Gruyère, for a more complex flavor, or opt for a spicy cheese like pepper jack for extra kick.
5. Keep It Warm: If making multiple batches, keep the sandwiches warm by placing them on a baking sheet in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C) until you’re ready to serve. This prevents them from cooling down and keeps the cheese melty.
French Toast Sandwiches Recipe
My favorite French Toast Sandwiches Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Shallow bowl
2. Whisk
3. Non-stick frying pan or griddle
4. Spatula
5. Measuring cup
6. Measuring spoons
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread (preferably brioche or challah)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Butter (for cooking)
- 4 slices of ham or turkey
- 4 slices of cheese (such as Swiss or cheddar)
- Maple syrup (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl that isn’t deep, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a small amount of salt. Whisk them together until they’re mostly one color.
2. Warm a non-stick frying pan or griddle over medium heat and toss in a small knob of butter to gloss the inside surface.
3. Soak each slice of bread in the mixture of egg, allowing it to infuse for a few seconds per side, so that it is thoroughly coated but not so mushy that it loses its breadness.
4. Put two slices of bread in the hot skillet and cook them for 2-3 minutes, until the side touching the skillet is golden brown.
5. Turn over both pieces of bread and promptly put a portion of cheese on each one.
6. Put a slice of ham or turkey on top of the cheese.
7. After the bottoms are golden brown and the cheese starts to melt, pile one slice on top of the other to make a sandwich.
8. Take the remaining slices of cheese and ham or turkey and the other slice of bread. From this point, do the same thing as before. You should have a total of two sandwiches when you’re finished.
9. If desired, each sandwich may be sliced in half and served warm.
10. You can serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup for a sweet yet savory finish.
