Ingredients:
8 slices 1/2" thick Panera Cinnamon Raisin Bread
4 tablespoons butter
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instruction:
For the French Toast Custard
1. Combine milk, heavy cream, eggs, honey, vanilla extract, and salt using a hand whisk. This custard can be made well in advance. Give a brisk stir before making the toast.
2. Transfer the custard to a casserole or open shallow dish for dipping.
3. Dip one slice into the custard and turn over after about 15 seconds. Transfer the slice while dipping another slice into the custard.
4. Place a large skillet on medium fire. Allow the pan to heat thoroughly before pouring 1 tablespoon of the melted butter into the pan.
5. Place two slices carefully into the skillet and cook on each side until golden brown or about 2 minutes.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 until all the French toast is cooked.
7. An optional step is to place each finished French Toast onto a baking sheet in a preheated oven until all are ready to serve.
8. Enjoy!!
Mark's story -
Last Sunday, after church, our family went to Panera Bread for lunch. This has become something of a family tradition. While I was waiting for Trisha's mocha and my vanilla latte, I just happened to see this recipe on the counter. I read it over. It looked good. I showed the recipe to Trish. Trish thought it sounded good as well. So, I bought a loaf of their Cinnamon Raisin Bread. FYI - their Cinnamon Raisin Bread is delicious just by itself.
Mark's Notes -
I combine steps 1 and 2 and just mix the custard together in a casserole dish.
The skillet I use can cook 4 pieces of French Toast at a time and so I use 2 tablespoons of butter at a time.
In step 5, depending on how thick the pieces are cut, it may take 2-4 minutes to cook through.
I added Step 8.
