Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSami's City DinerFrench Toast Recipe

French Toast Recipe

Inspired by Sami's City Diner
Time30m
Serves4

battered texas toast topped with powdered sugar & cinnamon $2 for additional toppings

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Ingredients

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Battered French Toast

Method

Battered French Toast

  1. 1

    Make the custard

    In a wide, shallow bowl or rimmed baking dish large enough to hold a slice of Texas toast, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and homogenous.

  2. 2

    Preheat griddle

    Heat a griddle or large nonstick skillet over medium heat (about 325–350°F / 160–175°C). Add 1 tablespoon of butter and the optional 1 teaspoon vegetable oil to the surface and let melt and coat the cooking area.

  3. 3

    Soak the bread

    Working two slices at a time, press each slice of Texas toast into the custard, allowing it to soak for 20–30 seconds per side. For very thick slices, let the bottom side soak slightly longer (up to 45 seconds) so the center is moistened but not falling apart. Lift and let excess custard drip back into the bowl.

  4. 4

    Cook the toast

    Place soaked slices onto the preheated griddle. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter to the griddle as needed between batches. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until each side is deep golden brown and the interior is set (an instant-read thermometer in the center should read about 160°F / 71°C if preferred). Adjust heat down slightly if browning too quickly.

  5. 5

    Keep warm

    If cooking multiple batches, keep finished slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven loosely tented with foil to stay warm and crisp until serving.

Toppings & Finish

  1. 6

    Plate two slices (or desired portion) of the cooked Texas toast. Dust each portion lightly with powdered sugar using a fine-mesh sieve or shaker (about 1–2 tablespoons per serving).

  2. 7

    Sprinkle a light dusting of ground cinnamon over the powdered sugar (about 1/8–1/4 tsp per plate) for extra flavor.

  3. 8

    Serve with maple syrup on the side (about 2–3 tablespoons per serving) and offer optional toppings: sliced strawberries, banana, whipped cream, or chocolate chips for an additional $2 per chosen topping. If using fruit, add immediately so it looks fresh.

  4. 9

    Garnish idea: a small pat of butter on top of the warm toast will melt and add richness before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.

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