Hasselback French Toast Recipe

Introduction

Hasselback French Toast offers a fun and elegant twist on classic French toast. Thick slices of brioche or challah bread are partially sliced, soaked in a rich custard, and cooked until golden and crispy on the edges. This technique creates tender, flavorful layers that make breakfast feel special without extra fuss.

Ingredients

• 0.5 inch thick Brioche bread or challah, day-old is best
• 4 large Eggs
• 1 cup Milk (whole milk recommended)
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 0.5 cup Butter (melted, for cooking)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Using a sharp knife, make parallel slices about 0.5 inch apart across the top of each bread slice, stopping just before you cut all the way through to create the Hasselback effect.
2. Step 2: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Step 3: Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, making sure the custard seeps into all the slices. Let it soak for about 1–2 minutes on each side.
4. Step 4: Heat the melted butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Step 5: Carefully place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Cook in batches if needed.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately with toppings of your choice such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.

Tips & Variations

• Use day-old bread as it soaks up the custard better without becoming soggy.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the egg mixture and ensure the butter is hot before adding the bread for a nice sear.
• Try swapping whole milk for almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• Enhance the slits with a spread of cream cheese or fruit compote for a delicious twist.
• Add a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of nuts on top to vary the flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftover cooked Hasselback French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes to crisp the edges, or use a toaster oven for a quicker option. You can also freeze portions by wrapping them well; reheat from frozen for 12–15 minutes. Add any glaze or syrup just before serving to keep it fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread besides brioche or challah?

Yes, sturdier breads like sourdough or French bread work well for Hasselback French toast because they hold the custard without falling apart.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Using day-old bread helps absorb the custard without becoming mushy. Also, soaking the bread just long enough and cooking in hot butter ensures crisp edges and a tender center.

Hasselback French Toast Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 150 reviews

Hasselback French Toast is a delightful twist on classic French toast where thick, day-old brioche or challah bread slices are cut Hasselback-style into an accordion shape to soak up a rich, spiced egg custard mixture. The bread is then pan-fried to golden perfection, resulting in crispy edges and a custardy center. This recipe can be customized with cream cheese filling and fruit compote swirls for an indulgent brunch or breakfast treat, offering a comforting yet impressive meal with simple ingredients.

• Author: lucas
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 0.5 inch thick brioche bread or challah, day-old is best
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 0.5 cup butter, melted (for cooking)

Optional Filling Ingredients

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 0.25 cup fruit compote or mini chocolate chips (optional swirl)

Optional Glaze Ingredients

• 0.5 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or dairy-free milk
• 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: splash of maple syrup or a pinch of citrus zest for brightness

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Using a sharp knife, make parallel slices about 0.5 inch apart across the top of each bread slice, cutting nearly all the way through but leaving the bottom crust intact to create the ‘accordion’ effect.
2. Whisk the Egg Mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
3. Dip the Bread: Immerse each sliced bread piece in the egg mixture, ensuring custard seeps into all the slices. Let soak for 1-2 minutes per side so the bread absorbs the mixture well.
4. Prepare the Skillet: Heat melted butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat until hot and bubbling but not smoking.
5. Cook the Toast: Place the soaked bread slices carefully onto the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and the slices are cooked through. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
6. Add Optional Filling: (If using) Before cooking, gently spread softened cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar and vanilla extract into the bread slits. Optionally, swirl in some fruit compote or mini chocolate chips into the cream cheese for extra flavor.
7. Serve: Serve immediately with toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a drizzle of glaze made by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. The toast can also be enjoyed with whipped cream or fruit compote on the side.

Notes

• For best results, use day-old bread so it absorbs custard without becoming soggy.
• A pinch of salt can be added to the egg mixture to enhance flavor.
• Ensure the butter is hot in the skillet before adding bread to achieve a good sear and crispy edges.
• The cream cheese filling is optional but adds a creamy texture and extra flavor.
• Do not overmix the wet and dry ingredients; a few small lumps in the custard mixture are fine.
• If the bread is soft, lightly toast it before slicing Hasselback-style to help it hold shape.
• Glaze should be drizzled just before serving or after reheating to maintain shine and texture.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage; reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
• Use almond or coconut milk as dairy-free alternatives.

Keywords: Hasselback French Toast, Breakfast, Brunch, Brioche French Toast, Cream Cheese Filling, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Easy French Toast