Orange French Toast
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: French
Keyword: cream cheese French toast, holiday breakfast, Orange French toast, weekend brunch
French Toast:
- 8 slices French bread Or use Challah Brioche or Texas Toast for a richer taste
- 8 large eggs Use free-range or organic for better flavor
- 1 cup half and half Substitute with whole milk for a lighter version
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar Sweeten to taste
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For depth of flavor
- ½ teaspoon orange zest Zest 2 large navel oranges for fresh flavor
- ⅓ cup chopped walnuts Optional for crunch
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries Optional for a tart touch
Orange Vanilla Cream Cheese and Orange Sauce:
- 8 ounces cream cheese Softened for easy mixing
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar For a smooth sweet spread
- ¾ teaspoon orange zest Adds brightness to the cream cheese
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract For sweetness and flavor balance
- 1 cup orange marmalade For a citrusy jammy sauce
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice Fresh is best for a vibrant flavor
Beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, orange zest, and vanilla together until smooth.
Transfer to a small bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until needed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the orange marmalade and orange juice until smooth.
Preheat your electric griddle to 350°F (or heat a large skillet over medium-high heat).
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, half and half, sugar, vanilla, and orange zest.
Grease the griddle or skillet with cooking spray or butter.
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated.
Place the soaked bread onto the preheated griddle or skillet and cook each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
Remove the cooked French toast and place on a baking sheet to keep warm in a 200°F oven while you cook the rest.
Spread cream cheese mixture over each slice of French toast and top with orange sauce.
Top with chopped walnuts and dried cranberries, if desired.
This orange French toast will brighten up any morning with its citrusy flavors and creamy, indulgent topping.
Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 95mg | Sodium: 350mg | Potassium: 250mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 22g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 10mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 2mg