Texas Toast French Toast: Upgrade Your Breakfast
My Texas toast French toast recipe puts a Texas twist on the classic French toast breakfast. Get ready for the ultimate hearty and comforting breakfast with this cinnamon-kissed dish. It turns ordinary slices of bread into a mouthwatering meal by soaking thick-cut Texas toast in a rich custard before frying it up to golden brown perfection.
Although people worldwide have enjoyed eggy French toast bread for breakfast recipes for centuries, we aim to enhance classic French toast today. There’s nothing quite like starting your day with a stack of Texas toast French toast dripping in sweet maple syrup. Don’t you think?
Keep reading to learn about this favorite breakfast bread’s origins and tips for making the best French toast you’ve ever tasted with my classic recipe. This upgraded classic delicious French toast version will become your new go-to for breakfast.
History of French Toast
French toast dates back to medieval Europe, when cooks needed a delicious way to use stale bread. They cut the bread into slices. Then they soaked the slices in a milk and egg mixture before frying them in butter or oil. This softened the bread and infused it with flavor. The earliest term for this eggy treat was “poor knights of Windsor,” likely referring to its popularity among less wealthy citizens in Windsor, England, in the 14th century. When French toast crossed the pond to America, thanks to European settlers, it gained fame as a breakfast staple. Though classic French toast is nothing more than bread dipped in custard and fried, regional twists abound. In Texas, French toast gets the royal treatment with Texas toast, a thick-cut white bread that soaks up the egg mixture and turns crispy when fried. This distinctly Texan twist on French toast, named Texas toast French toast, has evolved into a signature Lone Star State specialty. With its rich cinnamon creaminess sandwiched between slices of Texas toast, this indulgent breakfast treat will make you feel like royalty.
The Origins of Texas Toast
Though the name “Texas toast” suggests creation statewide, food historians trace the roots of this thick-sliced bread to two particular Texas restaurants in the early 1940s. As David Courtney explains in his article on TexasMonthly.com, Royce Hailey created Texas Toast. Hailey invented it in 1941 while working at the Pig Stand drive-in restaurant in Beaumont. Hailey ordered extra thick sliced bread for the restaurant’s sandwiches to impress customers. But, the bread slices were too large to fit in the toaster. To improvise, Hailey buttered the thick slices and toasted them on the flattop grill, resulting in the first Texas toast.
Another possible origin attributes the creation of Texas toast to cook W.W.W. Cross at a Pig Stand in Denton around the same period. Though food historians debate the exact inventor, these Texas restaurants definitively pioneered the concept of Texas toast in the early 1940s.
Distinguished by its double-thick slices toasted in butter, Texas toast rapidly gained popularity across the Lone Star State. Its versatility and hearty texture made it the ideal accompaniment for classic Texan dishes, including chicken fried steak, chili, and barbecue. Before long, Texas toast became a cherished staple across the region and then the nation, thanks to its irresistible flavor.
Now, let’s talk about why Texas toast is so perfect for making the most fabulous French toast. Those double-thick slices are sturdy enough to soak up that lovely custardy batter while still getting crisp on the outside when fried in butter. Every bite is a dream, with warm cinnamon creaminess encased in a buttery Texas toast hug. I’m telling you, once you try Texas toast French toast, you’ll never go back to regular sliced bread again!
Essential Food Safety Tips for French Toast
Following key food safety practices is crucial when making any dish with raw eggs, like French toast. This ensures you avoid the risks of salmonella and other foodborne illnesses. By following these simple food safety habits, you will enjoy soft, custardy French toast with confidence and peace of mind.
- Properly handle and store eggs to start. Use only clean, uncracked eggs kept refrigerated below 40°F. Eggs may contain salmonella, so preventing cross-contamination is crucial. Use a separate bowl to crack raw eggs rather than into the other recipe ingredients. Cracking eggs in their bowl prevents cross-contamination since it isolates potential bacteria before the eggs are incorporated into the recipe.
- After cracking eggs, wash your hands, utensils, and work surfaces with hot soapy water.
- Once the custard batter is mixed, refrigerate it until ready to soak the bread. Leaving egg-based mixtures like custard unrefrigerated for too long allows bacteria to mushroom. Prepare the batter just before soaking the bread slices.
- When frying the soaked Texas toast slices, use a cooking thermometer to verify the internal temperature reaches at least 160°F. Heating the eggs to 160°F destroys any lingering pathogens. Cook the toast until golden brown on both sides, which ensures the interior custard sets fully and becomes safe for eating.
- After cooking, refrigerate any leftover French toast within two hours. As a perishable food containing eggs, French toast becomes unsafe left at room temperature. Seal leftovers in a container, and place them in the back of the fridge where coldest. When refrigerated at the correct temperature, the French toast remains fresh for 3-4 days.
- When reheating leftovers, heat until steaming hot, at least 165°F. Discard leftovers if they have an off smell or appearance.
Follow this advice, and you will delight in French toast without fear. The heavenly taste and soft texture will transport you to food heaven. Be ready to make a second batch – these easy precautions let you enjoy every bite! Let me know if you need any clarification on these essential French toast safety tips.
My Mouthwatering Simple Texas Toast French Toast Recipe
Get ready to wow your tastebuds with my easy yet decadent Texas Toast French Toast recipe. Trust me, every cinnamon-kissed bite of this indulgent treat is pure food bliss. For a next-level breakfast or brunch, you can’t beat these simple steps:
You’ll need thick slices of Texas toast bread, large eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, ground cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, butter, and pure maple syrup.
- Start by whisking together the egg custard soak. In a flat-bottomed bowl, beat four large eggs until blended and smooth. Next, whisk in 1 1/2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, one tablespoon of ground cinnamon, two teaspoons of vanilla extract, and grated nutmeg. Prepare the custard thin enough to soak thoroughly into the bread.
- Prepare the Texas toast by buttering each slice on both sides. This ensures a browned and crisp crust.
- Pour the custard mixture into a shallow dish. Soak the Texas toast bread slices in the custard one at a time, flipping to coat both sides. Allow each slice to soak at least 2-3 minutes per side; that way, the bread fully absorbs the custard.
- When ready to cook, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the soaked Texas toast slices. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Work in batches if needed, adding more butter to the pan between batches.
- Serve the piping hot French toast, topped with pats of butter and drizzled with maple syrup. Sprinkle with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or chopped nuts if desired.
For the best texture, allow the soaked bread to sit for 5-10 minutes before cooking. This helps the custard absorb into every nook. Using both butter and oil together reduces sticking more effectively than only butter. And be sure to cook over medium heat – if the pan is too hot, the outside will burn before the interior cooks through.
With this easy method, every slice comes out crisp outside and custardy inside – French toast bliss! I know this Texas Toast French Toast will become your new favorite breakfast. Enjoy!
Fabulous Serving Suggestions for Texas Toast French Toast
This irresistible Texas Toast French Toast isn’t just for breakfast – it’s fantastic any time of day!
For a show-stopping brunch, serve slices of French toast with crispy bacon or sausage, scrambled eggs, and fresh fruit. The sweet and savory combination makes this an irresistible brunch dish.
You will also wow guests at dessert by topping leftover French toast with ice cream and drizzling with chocolate or caramel sauce. Top with a dollop of whipped cream you just prepared to perfection for even more decadence.
To add decadence, drizzle with pure maple syrup or warm fruit compote made with berries or stone fruits. A dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon brings extra sweetness too.
If enjoying breakfast, cook up the French toast first to stay warm. Then prepare eggs and meats while your lucky guests indulge in the toast.
For busy mornings, you make the entire recipe the night before. Reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven until hot and crisp.
Got leftovers? This French toast reheats and also freezes well for up to three months. Thaw frozen slices overnight in the fridge, then reheat to serve.
With so many options, you’ll want to indulge in this Texas Toast French Toast morning, noon, and night. It’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite!
Watch the Texas French Toast Magic Happen
Eager to witness just how effortless crafting mouthwatering Texas Toast French Toast can be? Be sure to watch this step-by-step tutorial video below. It will guide you through the full preparation and cooking process to master each step-by-step instruction with ease.
In the video by Crouton Crackerjacks, you’ll learn tips for whisking up the balanced cinnamon-vanilla custard to soak the Texas toast slices. And you’ll see the ideal texture for the batter and the technique for dipping the bread. Cas Navey shows how to melt the butter and fry the Texas toast slices until crisp and golden on the outside with a tender, custard-soaked interior. You’ll notice that Cas doesn’t soak the bread slices in the custard mix because he prefers his French toast “bready’ on the inside. This goes to show how versatile this recipe is.
You’ll also pick up his tricks for getting picture-perfect results every time. Watch Cas drizzle on the maple syrup and add fun toppings like fresh fruit and powdered sugar. By the end, you’ll be able to create stunning stacks of Texas Toast French Toast worthy of a magazine cover!
So take a peek at the step-by-step tutorial below and prepare to wow everyone with your expert French toast skills. I know that after watching, you’ll be eager to soak that thick sliced bread and indulge in this irresistible breakfast.
Texas Toast French Toast Q&A
Got questions about making perfect Texas Toast French toast? Here are frequently asked questions to help you become a French toast pro:
Q. What kind of bread makes the best French toast?
Use thick sliced bread like Texas toast, Italian bread, or French bread for best results. Thicker bread like brioche soaks the custard and fry up with a crisp exterior and a moist, tender interior. Avoid regular sliced sandwich bread, as it gets too soggy. Look for bread that’s at least 1 inch thick to soak up the custard and achieve that ideal crisp yet custardy French toast texture. Texas toast, Italian bread, brioche, or other thick-sliced slices of bread are your best bet for French toast perfection.
Q. What milk is ideal for the custard?
Whole milk or half-and-half are perfect options. Stay away from non-fat milk, as the lower fat content prevents a creamy custard.
Q. Can I use frozen Texas toast bread?
Absolutely! Let frozen slices thaw before using to ensure even soaking and cooking.
Q. How long should I soak the bread?
Aim for at least 2-3 minutes per side. This allows time for the custard to permeate the bread fully.
Q. What’s the best fat for frying?
Butter and vegetable oil is the winning combo. Butter provides flavor while the oil prevents sticking.
Q. How do I keep the French toast warm?
Put in a 200°F oven on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This keeps multiple batches warm and crisp.
Q. What are the best topping combinations?
The classics like maple syrup, fruit, and whipped cream are perfect. For something savory, add crumbled bacon.
Ready, Set, Make French Toast!
Texas Toast French Toast is the ultimate hearty and comforting breakfast. This ingenious recipe takes classic French toast up a notch by using thick slices of Texas toast bread. The Texas toast becomes an indulgent treat when soaked in a cinnamon egg custard and fried up golden brown. Each bite delights with a crispy exterior giving way to a soft, custardy interior. The result is a satisfying twist on traditional French toast, with more substance thanks to the iconic thick-cut Texas toast. Drizzled with maple syrup or fruit compote, this easy yet impressive make French toast dish can be enjoyed any time of day. Texas Toast French Toast will be a hit, whether you serve it for a weekend brunch or a weeknight breakfast. The “cinnamon-y” slices are easy to make yet feel like a special occasion. You can’t beat Texas toast dipped in sweet custard and fried to perfection for an over-the-top breakfast that makes you feel like royalty.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free twist on French toast, don’t miss this creative recipe, “Gluten Free Easy French Toast Muffins.” It repurposes stale bread ends into muffins using a custard made with coconut milk and cardamom for delicious flavor. Be sure to check out this unique gluten-free take on French toast from Sandi Gaertner’s site.
Let us know – what’s your favorite French toast topping combination? Maple syrup? Fruit? Pecans? Tell us in the comments!
