French Toast

Step 1

Dry bread by laying on a wire rack overnight* or bake at 200˚F for about 15 minutes (then cool completely).

Step 2

In a large measuring cup or medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, juice, sugar, zest, cinnamon, salt, and cognac if using.

Step 3

Place bread in a single layer in a baking tray with sides. Pour egg mixture on bread. Flip slices a number of times, until bread is coated and soaked, about 15-20 minutes. There may be a small amount of egg mixture remaining in the pan, but most will have soaked into the bread.

Step 4

***Preheat oven to 200˚F. Place a wire rack on a baking tray and set aside.

Step 5

Over medium heat in a skillet, or on a griddle, heat equal parts butter and oil (about 1 Tablespoon of each for a skillet, and 2 Tablespoons of each on a skillet). Fry bread slices 3-4 minutes per side or until golden. Serve immediately or transfer to wire rack on the baking tray and place in oven to keep warm.

Step 6

Wipe skillet or griddle, and repeat, adding butter and oil to fry remaining French toast.

Step 7

Serve warm with maple syrup or your favorite toppings.