Croissant French Toast
Food52 co-founder and editor-in-chief Merrill Stubbs, revisits a former brunch staple that makes the perfect Mother's Day breakfast in bed: croissant french toast.
- Merrill
It occurred to me recently that I hadn't written about anything breakfast-y in a while. And for whatever reason, I was reminded of a former brunch staple I used to whip up regularly: croissant french toast.
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Yes, it's rich. And for this I make no apologies. If you're typically a breakfast purist who enjoys nothing more than a bowl of fat-free yogurt sprinkled with toasted wheat germ, this may not be the dish for you -- then again, it just might be!
The truth is, it's a special breakfast, not meant for every day (even for those of us who don't gravitate to yogurt and wheat germ), but for an occasion. You know, like having friends over on a Sunday morning, or dishing up a decadent breakfast in bed on Mother's Day.
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The croissants develop almost unbelievably crisp edges when they're dipped in egg and milk and then fried in butter. I put some fresh orange zest and juice into the batter for the croissants, and then a little Cointreau in with the syrup to keep the orange theme going. A little mascarpone on top is optional, but highly recommended.
Croissant French Toast
Serves 4
2 large croissants
2 large eggs
Finely grated zest and juice of one orange
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 cup good maple syrup
1 tablespoon Cointreau or Grand Marnier
Mascarpone for serving (optional)
1. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice each croissant in half and set aside.
2. Whisk together the eggs, orange zest and juice, vanilla and milk in a large shallow pan or bowl. Meanwhile, warm the maple syrup in a small saucepan and stir in the Cointreau.
3. Set a large heavy skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of the butter. When it starts to foam, dip two of the croissant halves briefly in the egg and milk mixture, turning to coat both sides. (Do not leave them in the liquid, as they will become soggy.) Add them to the pan and cook, flipping once, until golden brown on both sides. Transfer to a plate and keep covered in a warm oven while you repeat with the rest of the croissants. Serve the french toast with the syrup, topping with a dollop of mascarpone if you like.
See the full recipe (and save and print it) at Food52.
More on Mother's Day:
9 Make-Ahead Mother's Day Brunch Recipes
10 Edible Gifts for Mother's Day
Photo by Jennifer Causey
