Classic Italian Panettone French Toast (diabetic)

Classic Italian Panettone French Toast is a delightful breakfast dish that transforms the traditional holiday bread into a sweet morning treat. This diabetic-friendly version swaps out high-sugar ingredients for lower-carb alternatives, allowing you to indulge without the sugar crash. The rich, buttery texture of panettone, studded with dried fruits, creates a luxurious base for this dish, while the custard-like batter adds a creamy finish. Historically, panettone hails from Milan, Italy, where it was traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season. Its unique flavor profile comes from the fermentation process and the inclusion of candied fruits, which can be a challenge for those watching their sugar intake. However, with a few clever substitutions, you can savor the essence of this beloved bread in a way that aligns with your dietary needs. After all, who says you can't have your cake and eat it too—just in a healthier form? To prepare this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment. The key is to allow the panettone to soak in the custard mixture long enough to absorb the flavors without becoming overly soggy. A non-stick skillet is ideal for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust, while a dash of cinnamon and a sprinkle of nutmeg will elevate the flavors to new heights. Serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of sugar-free syrup for an extra touch of indulgence. So, whether you're hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself on a lazy Sunday morning, this diabetic-friendly Classic Italian Panettone French Toast is sure to impress. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it’s a breakfast that feels like a treat but is kind to your health. Just remember, the only thing sweeter than this dish is the company you share it with—unless, of course, you’re sharing with someone who thinks pineapple belongs on pizza. Good luck with that!
Classic Italian Panettone French Toast
Variant: diabetic Servings: 4 Total: 30 mins

Ingredients

  • 8 slices panettone
  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon cooking spray
  • 0.25 cup sugar-free syrup
  • 0.5 cup Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment. You will need a large mixing bowl, a whisk, a non-stick skillet, and a spatula for flipping the French toast.
  2. In the mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, 4 large eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 0.5 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Whisk the mixture until it is well combined and slightly frothy.
  3. Take your 8 slices of panettone and arrange them in a single layer in a shallow dish. Pour the egg mixture over the panettone, ensuring each slice is well coated. Let it soak for about 5 minutes, turning the slices halfway through to absorb the flavors evenly.
  4. While the panettone is soaking, preheat your non-stick skillet over medium heat. Lightly spray the skillet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place 2-3 slices of the soaked panettone in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This will give you that delightful texture.
  6. After flipping, keep an eye on the French toast to prevent burning. You want a nice golden hue, which indicates they are cooked through but still moist inside.
  7. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining slices, adding more cooking spray as needed. You may need to adjust the heat to medium-low if the panettone is browning too quickly.
  8. Once all the slices are cooked, serve them warm on plates. Drizzle with 0.25 cup of sugar-free syrup and a dollop of 0.5 cup of Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
  9. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely visual appeal.
  10. Enjoy your diabetic-friendly Classic Italian Panettone French Toast with a side of fresh fruit, if desired. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
  11. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the skillet or microwave before serving.
  12. Remember, this dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can still be a delightful treat even after a day or two.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Carbs g: 30
  • Protein g: 12
  • Fat g: 8
  • Sugar g: 2
Tags: breakfast, brunch, diabetic-friendly, panettone, french toast