Hong Kong-style French toast is the ultimate comfort food, a crispy, golden treat that’s deeply satisfying with every bite. Unlike traditional French toast, this version is thick, indulgent, and filled with a deliciously creamy center. It’s a beloved dish served at local cha chaan tengs (Hong Kong-style cafés), where it’s often enjoyed with a hot cup of milk tea or coffee.

This dish holds a special place in the hearts of many because it brings back memories of cozy breakfast moments or afternoon tea breaks in bustling cafés. The combination of buttery, crispy bread with a drizzle of sweet syrup is simply irresistible. Whether you’re making this for a weekend brunch or as an afternoon pick-me-up, this Hong Kong classic is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside – The deep-frying method gives the bread a crunchy texture while keeping it fluffy inside.
• Perfectly sweet – With a drizzle of syrup and a pat of butter, every bite is rich and satisfying.
• Easy to make at home – You don’t need any fancy ingredients; everything is simple and easy to find.
• Great for any time of the day – Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 slices of thick white bread
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or any preferred filling)
• 1 egg
• 3 tablespoons milk
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Cooking oil for frying
• Butter, for serving
• Maple syrup or condensed milk, for drizzling

How to Make Hong Kong-Style French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Sandwich

Start by spreading a generous layer of peanut butter on one slice of bread. If peanut butter isn’t your thing, you can use custard, jam, or even Nutella for a different twist. Place the second slice of bread on top, pressing gently to secure it.

Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, salt, vanilla extract, and sugar. This creates a slightly sweet and flavorful coating that will give the toast its signature golden-brown finish.

Step 3: Dip the Bread

Gently dip the sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are evenly coated. Let it soak for a few seconds, but don’t leave it too long or it may become soggy.

Step 4: Fry Until Golden

Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the soaked sandwich into the oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Use a spatula to flip it gently to avoid splashing oil.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once fully cooked, transfer the toast to a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil. While it’s still warm, top it with a pat of butter and drizzle with maple syrup or condensed milk. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Helpful Tips

• Use thick-cut bread – Softer, thicker bread holds up better and soaks up the egg mixture without getting mushy.
• Don’t over-soak – A quick dip is enough to coat the bread without making it too soggy.
• Fry at medium heat – Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside is fully cooked; too low, and it won’t crisp up properly.
• Try different fillings – While peanut butter is traditional, you can experiment with custard, fruit jam, or even cheese for a savory version.
• Serve immediately – This dish is best enjoyed fresh while it’s crispy and warm!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 11 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving
• Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Hong Kong, Asian Fusion
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• Bread Choice Matters – Traditional Hong Kong-style French toast is made with thick-cut white bread because it creates a soft and fluffy interior while still crisping up beautifully when fried. If using thinner slices, be extra careful when soaking in the egg mixture to avoid sogginess.
• Peanut Butter Tips – Smooth peanut butter is the classic filling, but crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of texture if you prefer some extra crunch. You can also swap it for almond butter, chocolate spread, or kaya (coconut jam) for a unique twist.
• Egg Mixture Consistency – Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to ensure even coating and a smooth texture when frying. Any unblended egg whites may create uneven patches on the toast.
• Oil Temperature is Key – The oil should be hot enough to create a crispy crust (about 350°F or 175°C), but not so hot that the bread burns before cooking through. Test by dropping a small bit of egg mixture into the oil—if it sizzles and floats, it’s ready.
• Serving Suggestion – For an authentic Hong Kong café experience, serve your French toast with a cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea or hot coffee. The contrast between the creamy, sweet toast and the strong, bold tea or coffee is simply divine.
• For a Lighter Version – If you want to enjoy this dish with less oil, try pan-frying with a small amount of butter or oil instead of deep-frying. It won’t be as crispy, but it will still taste delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white bread?

Yes! While traditional Hong Kong-style French toast is made with soft white bread, whole wheat can be used for a slightly healthier twist. Just keep in mind that it may be denser.

Can I air-fry this instead of deep-frying?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air-fry for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. It won’t be as crispy as deep-frying, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this without peanut butter?

Absolutely! You can fill it with custard, chocolate spread, kaya (coconut jam), or even a simple fruit jam for a different take on the classic.

How do I make this less greasy?

Let the fried toast drain on paper towels for a minute before serving. You can also lightly pat the surface to remove excess oil.

Storage Instructions

Hong Kong-style French toast is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to crisp it up again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.

Related Recipes

If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:

• Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
• Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Muffins: A Cozy Breakfast in Every Bite
• Blueberry Cake Donuts

Final Thoughts

Making Hong Kong-style French toast at home is a simple way to bring a taste of cha chaan teng culture into your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or even dessert, it’s a delightful indulgence that never fails to satisfy. Try it with different fillings, pair it with a cup of milk tea, and savor every crispy, buttery bite!

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