Introduction

This French Toast recipe takes a classic breakfast favorite to the next level with a luscious orange marmalade whipped cream topping. The challah bread soaks in a spiced custard, then gets perfectly crisped and finished in the oven for a delightful texture. It’s a wonderful way to start a weekend or impress guests with a flavorful twist.

A stack of four thick, golden-brown waffles sits on a white plate placed on a textured metallic tray over a wooden surface. Between each waffle layer is a generous spread of smooth white cream, adding softness and contrast to the crispy texture of the waffles. On top, more white cream is spread thickly, crowned with shiny, dark blueberries and a small twist of orange zest. Golden syrup is being poured over the stack, slowly dripping down the sides, adding a glossy shine and a rich amber color. The background shows a blurry pink flower in a white vase, with a dark backdrop. The scene is set on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 slices Challah Bread

4 Eggs

1 cup Half and Half

5 tablespoons Granulated Sugar

1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon Orange zest

1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract

1 pinch Salt

3 tablespoons Butter

Maple Syrup, to taste

1 cup Heavy Cream

1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar

1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

2 tablespoons Orange Marmalade

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

Step 2: In a blender or with a hand mixer, beat the 4 eggs for 30 seconds until slightly frothy.

Step 3: Add the half and half, 5 tablespoons sugar, cinnamon, salt, vanilla extract, orange zest, and almond extract to the eggs. Blend again for 30 seconds until well combined.

Step 4: Pour the custard mixture into a large baking dish. Lay the challah slices in the custard, spooning some of the liquid over each slice. Let soak for 8 minutes.

Step 5: Flip the bread slices over and soak for another 8 minutes to ensure they absorb the custard evenly.

Step 6: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter. Fry the soaked slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, working in batches if needed.

Step 7: Transfer the browned slices to a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes to set and warm through.

Step 8: Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the heavy cream with a hand mixer on medium-high speed until it thickens, about 3 minutes.

Step 9: Add 1 tablespoon sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract to the whipped cream, then beat for 2-3 more minutes until stiff peaks form.

Step 10: Gently fold in the orange marmalade one tablespoon at a time with a rubber spatula, tasting as you go to achieve the desired flavor.

Step 11: Serve the French toast topped with the orange marmalade whipped cream, drizzle with maple syrup, and add fresh fruit if desired.

Tips & Variations

For an extra citrus boost, add a teaspoon of orange juice to the custard mixture alongside the zest.

Try brioche bread as a substitute for challah for a buttery, tender texture.

Use homemade orange marmalade or a high-quality store brand for the best flavor in the whipped cream.

Serve with fresh berries or sliced bananas for added freshness and color.

FAQs

Can I make this French toast ahead of time?

You can soak the bread overnight in the custard mixture, covered in the fridge, then cook it fresh in the morning for convenience.

What if I don’t have challah bread?

Challah is ideal for its texture and flavor, but brioche or other thick, slightly sweet breads work well as substitutes.

Dessert

Orange Marmalade French Toast with Whipped Cream Recipe