Description
Indulge in the rich, decadent flavors of Hong Kong French Toast, a beloved café-style treat! Featuring thick milk bread stuffed with a creamy custard filling, dipped in a sweet egg mixture, and pan-fried to golden perfection, this dish is a must-try for breakfast or brunch. Served with a pat of butter and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk, it’s an irresistible combination of crispy, buttery, and sweet flavors!
Ingredients
For the Custard Filling:
- 2 to 3 salted duck egg yolks (or substitute with 3 regular egg yolks)
- ½ tbsp (25 g) milk powder
- 2 tbsp (20 g) cornstarch
- 4 tbsp (60 g) softened salted butter (or unsalted + ¼ tsp salt)
- ½ cup (50 g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
For the French Toast:
- 5 to 6 slices of 1-inch thick milk bread (or 8–12 regular slices, crusts removed)
- 3 cups whole milk
- 4 eggs
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Butter, for cooking
- ¼ cup sweetened condensed milk (for sealing and drizzling)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Custard Filling:
- Mash the salted duck egg yolks in a bowl until smooth.
- Add milk powder and cornstarch, mixing well.
- Stir in softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and turmeric (if using) until smooth.
2. Assemble the Toast:
- Slice each bread piece horizontally, leaving one edge attached to create a pocket.
- Brush the inside edges with sweetened condensed milk to help seal.
- Spread 2-3 tbsp of custard filling inside each pocket.
- Gently press the edges to seal.
3. Prepare the Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs.
- Add milk, salt, and vanilla extract, whisking until combined.
4. Cook the French Toast:
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in a nonstick pan over medium heat.
- Dip each assembled toast into the batter for 20 seconds per side, allowing excess to drip off.
- Cook for 2 minutes per side, adjusting heat to prevent burning, until golden brown.
5. Serve:
- Serve hot with butter and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk.
Notes
- Classic Version – Swap custard for peanut butter or jam for an authentic Hong Kong café experience.
- Bread Substitutes – Brioche or challah work well if milk bread is unavailable.
- Toppings – Enhance with fresh fruit, powdered sugar, or maple syrup.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
