Description
Hong Kong French Toast is a decadent and fluffy dessert-style toast made by sandwiching creamy custard between thick slices of milk bread, then coated in an egg wash and deep-fried or air-fried until golden and crispy. Served with a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk, this beloved Hong Kong street snack offers a delightful combination of creamy, crispy, and sweet textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Filling
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toast
- 6 pieces white bread (thick milk bread preferred)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Sweetened condensed milk (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare Custard Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and 1 large egg until smooth.
- Cook Custard: Heat 1 cup of milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil. Gradually add the hot milk to the egg mixture while whisking continuously to temper the eggs and avoid curdling. Pour the combined mixture back into the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the custard boils and thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until well incorporated. Let cool slightly.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Take 3 slices of thick milk bread. Spread a thin, even layer of the warm custard filling between two slices and sandwich them together. Repeat if needed with remaining bread slices.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a shallow dish, whisk together 2 large eggs and 1 tablespoon of milk until fully combined.
- Coat and Cook: Dip the custard-filled sandwich completely in the egg wash, ensuring all sides are coated. For deep frying, heat oil to 350°F and fry the sandwich until golden brown, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Alternatively, spray the sandwich lightly with oil and air fry it at 400°F for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from oil or air fryer and drain on paper towels if deep fried. Place on a serving plate and drizzle generously with sweetened condensed milk. Enjoy hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Thick milk bread is preferred for its sturdiness and texture, but any white sandwich bread can work.
- For a healthier option, air frying is recommended instead of deep frying.
- Ensure the custard is not too hot when spreading to prevent bread from becoming soggy.
- Serve immediately after cooking for the crispiest experience as the toast can soften over time.
- You can add a pinch of salt to the custard filling to balance sweetness if desired.
