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If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug and a celebration all in one bite, this Churro French Toast Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine thick slices of day-old brioche soaking in a luscious cinnamon-infused custard, fried to golden perfection, and then coated generously in a sweet, spiced cinnamon sugar that recalls the irresistible magic of churros. Every bite is crispy on the outside, tender inside, and bursting with cozy flavors — this dish is the ultimate way to brighten any morning or weekend brunch gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet crucial to creating the authentic churro flavor and that perfect French toast texture. Each element adds its own magic, from the rich egg custard that soaks into the bread, to the cinnamon sugar coating that provides that signature sweet crunch.
- 8 thick slices of day-old brioche or challah bread: Day-old bread soaks the custard just right without becoming mushy.
- 4 large eggs: The rich base of our custard, providing structure and creaminess.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and helps create a silky custard.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and aromatic sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a gentle spice in the custard itself.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing sweetness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: For the luscious cinnamon sugar coating that gives that churro crunch.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating): Mixed with sugar for that classic churro flavor.
- Butter (for frying): Creates a crispy golden crust and adds richness.
How to Make Churro French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
Start by mixing together 1 cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. This sweet and spicy blend is what makes this French toast truly shine, mimicking the iconic churro coating. Set this aside so it’s ready for the finishing touch.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard is the rich, flavorful base that will soak into your bread slices, giving each bite a creamy, tender interior.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Heat a griddle or frying pan over medium heat and melt a small pat of butter to coat the surface. Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, turning to coat both sides evenly but carefully so the bread absorbs just enough without falling apart.
Step 4: Fry the French Toast
Place the custard-soaked bread slices onto the hot pan. Fry each side for 2 to 3 minutes until beautifully golden brown and slightly crispy. Keep an eye on the heat to prevent burning, and add more butter as needed to maintain that irresistible crust.
Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While still warm, immediately toss each cooked slice into the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating both sides generously. This step seals in all the flavor and gives you that signature churro crunch and irresistible sweetness with every bite.
Step 6: Serve
Your Churro French Toast Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve warm, straight from the pan, with your favorite toppings to elevate the experience.
How to Serve Churro French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Churro French Toast Recipe shine even more, think about toppings that add contrasting textures and flavors. Fresh berries bring a juicy tartness, whipped cream adds light creaminess, and a drizzle of pure maple syrup gives a deep sweetness that complements the cinnamon sugar perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair this sweet treat with some savory sides to create a balanced brunch spread. Crispy bacon or breakfast sausages offer a smoky contrast, while a fresh fruit salad brightens the plate with its natural freshness and vibrant colors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack several slices and dust them with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a visually appealing tower. Serve the syrup and toppings in small bowls to invite everyone to customize their own plate, turning your dining table into a playful culinary adventure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. This keeps the toast fresh and helps retain its moisture without getting soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked Churro French Toast slices by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to one month and are great for quick breakfasts on busy mornings.
Reheating
To reheat, use a toaster oven or conventional oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This helps maintain the crispy exterior and soft interior without sacrificing that magical cinnamon sugar crunch.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah provide the best soft, fluffy texture, sturdy bread like Texas toast or even sourdough can work. Just make sure it’s a day old to soak the custard properly without falling apart.
What can I substitute for whole milk?
You can use 2% milk or even half-and-half for a richer custard. Non-dairy options like almond or oat milk also work but might slightly alter the flavor and texture.
Can I make the cinnamon sugar ahead of time?
Yes! The cinnamon sugar mixture keeps well stored in an airtight container for weeks, so feel free to prepare it ahead to save time on busy mornings.
How do I keep the French toast from getting soggy?
Using day-old bread is key because it’s firmer and holds the custard better. Also, don’t soak the bread too long—just enough to coat it. Cooking on medium heat and frying until golden also helps create a crisp exterior.
Is this Churro French Toast Recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The sweet cinnamon sugar coating and familiar French toast flavors tend to be big hits with children, and it’s a fun way to introduce a little bit of new flavor inspired by churros.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Churro French Toast Recipe is a wonderful way to elevate your breakfast game and bring a little indulgence into your day. Its comforting flavors and delightful textures are guaranteed to make everyone at your table smile with every bite. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and savor a tasty treat that feels like a special occasion anytime you want.
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Churro French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Churro French Toast is a delightful twist on traditional French toast, inspired by the classic cinnamon-sugar churro. Made with thick slices of day-old brioche or challah bread, soaked in a flavorful custard of eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon, then pan-fried until golden and coated generously with cinnamon sugar. This recipe offers a crispy exterior with a soft, custardy center, perfect for a sweet breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients
Bread
- 8 thick slices of day-old brioche or challah bread
Custard
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For Frying
- Butter (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar: In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Set this mixture aside for coating the French toast immediately after frying.
- Make the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 4 eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Heat the Pan: Place a griddle or large frying pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to coat the surface evenly.
- Dip the Bread: Take each slice of day-old brioche or challah and dip it into the custard, coating both sides thoroughly but avoiding soaking the bread through.
- Fry the French Toast: Arrange the dipped bread slices in the heated pan. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown and crispy. Add additional butter to the pan as necessary to prevent sticking and to add flavor.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Immediately after frying, transfer the French toast slices to the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture and roll or sprinkle to coat each side generously while still warm.
- Serve: Serve the churro French toast hot. Optionally, top with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh berries for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best texture as fresh bread may become too soggy when soaked.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar coating to taste for a sweeter or spicier finish.
- Keep the pan temperature medium to ensure the toast cooks through without burning.
- Butter can be substituted with oil for a different flavor or for dietary preferences.
- Serve immediately as the cinnamon sugar coating is best enjoyed warm and fresh.
