Hong Kong Style French Toast
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Bring a taste of Hong Kong’s café culture right into your kitchen with this Hong Kong Style French Toast! Thick, pillowy bread sandwiches creamy peanut butter, gets dipped in egg, then fried to golden perfection. Finish it off with a pat of butter and a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk for a breakfast or snack that’s pure comfort food—crispy outside, creamy inside, and absolutely irresistible!
Ingredients
- 6 slices milk bread or square white bread
- 4 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Sweetened condensed milk, to taste
How Do You Make Hong Kong French Toast?
Step 1: Start by spreading peanut butter on four slices of bread. Top each with another slice to make two thick sandwiches.
Step 2: Use a sharp knife to trim off the crusts, giving you neat, square sandwiches.
Step 3: Carefully dip each sandwich in the beaten eggs, making sure to coat all sides. Don’t let them soak too long—you want them coated, not soggy.
Step 4: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over low-medium heat (about 300°F). Once the oil is hot, gently place the sandwiches in the pan.
Step 5: Fry each sandwich for about 1–2 minutes per side, turning as needed. Don’t forget the edges—about 30 seconds each—so every bite is crispy.
Step 6: Remove the sandwiches and drain briefly on a paper towel. Serve hot, topped with a pat of butter and a generous drizzle of sweetened condensed milk.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 259
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
Tips for the Perfect Hong Kong French Toast
- Choose the right bread: Milk bread is traditional, but any soft, thick-sliced white bread will work.
- Don’t oversoak: Dip the sandwiches quickly in the egg so they don’t fall apart when frying.
- Fry low and slow: Keep the heat at medium or just below so the bread gets crispy without burning.
- Serve immediately: This toast is best hot and fresh, when the outside is crisp and the inside is creamy.
Why This Dish Is a Hong Kong Classic
Hong Kong French Toast is a staple at local diners called cha chaan tengs—places where East meets West on every plate. The combination of peanut butter, egg-dipped bread, and sweetened condensed milk is pure comfort food, loved by kids and adults alike. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether for breakfast, brunch, or a late-night snack.
Make It Your Own
- Switch up the filling: Try kaya (coconut jam), Nutella, or fruit preserves instead of peanut butter.
- Add fruit: Banana slices or fresh berries make a delicious addition.
- Try different toppings: Honey, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar work great if you don’t have condensed milk.
- Go dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead?
This toast is best served fresh. If you need to prep ahead, assemble the sandwiches and store them in the fridge, then dip and fry just before serving.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! Use your favorite gluten-free sandwich bread.
Can I bake instead of fry?
For a lighter version, brush the sandwiches with oil and bake at 375°F until golden, flipping once.
The Story Behind the Toast
This dish is a perfect example of Hong Kong’s culinary creativity. Born out of a blend of British and Cantonese influences, it takes classic French toast and gives it a unique twist with peanut butter and condensed milk. The result? A sweet, savory, and utterly satisfying treat that’s become a beloved part of Hong Kong’s food scene.
The Best Way to Serve Hong Kong French Toast
Pair your toast with a cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea or strong coffee for the ultimate café experience at home. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, you’ll love how easy and delicious it is.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a breakfast or snack that’s a little bit different and a whole lot delicious, give this Hong Kong Style French Toast a try. It’s quick, easy, and sure to be a hit with the whole family—crispy, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet!
