⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 2 servings servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

🍽 Ingredients

• 6 slices Challah or brioche bread Bread
• 2 Large eggs
• 1/2 cup Milk
• 1/4 cup Heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons Brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt
• 2 medium Ripe pears
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground cardamom
• For dusting Powdered sugar
• For garnish Fresh berries or whipped cream

📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish generously. This prevents sticking, a super annoying problem.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt. Make sure everything is well combined – no one wants streaky french toast, right? (Unless you're doing it on purpose... which is cool too)
3. Peel, core, and thinly slice the pears. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick slices. I personally like to use a mandolin slicer because it makes even slices, but you can totally use a knife if you're careful!
4. Gently toss the pear slices with the cardamom powder. Don't overdo it on the cardamom; a little goes a long way! We want to add warmth, not overpower the pears.
5. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure it's fully coated. Don't soak it too long; just a quick dip on both sides is ideal.
6. Arrange the soaked bread slices in the prepared baking dish. I try to make sure there are no large gaps, but it's not a big deal if there are some gaps, honestly.
7. Arrange the pear slices on top of the bread. You can be artistic about it if you feel inspired!
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the french toast is golden brown and cooked through. You know it's ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the french toast cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh berries or whipped cream (if you're feeling fancy!).

📝 Notes

• For extra richness, use a mix of whole milk and heavy cream. You may need to adjust the amount of milk depending on how absorbent your bread is.
• Don't be afraid to experiment with other spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. They will add nice flavor layers to this recipe
• If you like a crispier french toast, you can broil it for the last minute or two of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
• This recipe can be made in advance; prepare the custard mixture the day before and assemble and bake the French toast in the morning. This is a time saver!