Step 1

The night before you want to serve the French toast, slice bread into thick slices and leave it out to dry.

Step 2

The next morning, add eggs and a dash of salt to a mixing bowl and beat with a fork until mixed.

Step 3

Add eggs, orange juice, zest (if you’re using it), and half-and-half into the mixing bowl and whisk together.

Step 4

Soak bread slices thoroughly in the egg mixture.

Step 5

Place as many soaked bread slices in a lightly-greased hot skillet as will fit in single layer.

Step 6

Cook over medium heat until golden brown and no visible liquid egg remains, turning once.

Step 7

Transfer to a pan in a 200-degree oven to keep warm while you cook the remaining toast.

Step 8

Before serving, dust top with powdered sugar.

Step 9

Serve with maple syrup.