Crafting the Perfect French Toast with Hazelnut Cream

French toast, a beloved breakfast classic, offers a delightful canvas for culinary creativity. By incorporating rich hazelnut cream, this traditional dish transforms into a decadent morning indulgence. This guide provides a comprehensive approach to preparing French toast with hazelnut cream, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will elevate your breakfast experience.

Ingredients

To serve two, gather the following:

• Bread: 4 slices of brioche or challah bread, preferably day-old for optimal absorption.
• Hazelnut Cream: Approximately 4 tablespoons of a high-quality hazelnut spread.
• Egg Mixture:
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • A pinch of salt
• For Cooking:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Optional Toppings:
  • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • Powdered sugar
  • Maple syrup
  • Chopped toasted hazelnuts

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Bread:
   • Lay out the bread slices on a clean surface.
   • Generously spread hazelnut cream on one side of two slices.
   • Place the remaining two slices on top, creating two sandwiches with the hazelnut cream in the center.
2. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
   • In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk (or cream), vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Soak the Sandwiches:
   • Carefully dip each sandwich into the egg mixture.
   • Allow each side to soak for about 20-30 seconds, ensuring the bread absorbs the mixture without becoming overly saturated.
4. Cook the French Toast:
   • Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
   • Add the butter and let it melt, coating the surface evenly.
   • Place the soaked sandwiches onto the skillet.
   • Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve:
   • Transfer the French toast to serving plates.
   • Top with fresh berries, a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts, if desired.

Tips for Success

• Bread Selection: Opt for thick-cut slices of brioche or challah, as their dense texture holds up well during soaking and cooking.
• Soaking Time: Ensure the bread absorbs the egg mixture thoroughly without becoming too soggy. Adjust soaking time based on the bread’s freshness and thickness.
• Cooking Temperature: Maintain medium heat to achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring the interior is warmed and the hazelnut cream is slightly melted.
• Variations: For added flavor, consider incorporating a splash of hazelnut liqueur into the egg mixture or adding a layer of sliced bananas inside the sandwich before cooking.

Nutritional Considerations

While this dish is indulgent, moderation is key. To reduce calorie content, use a lighter bread, substitute whole milk with a lower-fat alternative, or opt for a reduced-sugar hazelnut spread. Pairing the French toast with fresh fruit adds natural sweetness and nutritional balance.

Conclusion

French toast with hazelnut cream offers a luxurious twist on a breakfast favorite, combining creamy, nutty richness with the comforting familiarity of custard-soaked bread. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this recipe promises to delight and satisfy, making mornings a little more indulgent.

For a visual demonstration of this recipe, you might find the following video helpful: