Classic Italian Panettone French Toast (classic)

Classic Italian Panettone French Toast is a delightful breakfast dish that transforms the traditional Italian holiday bread into a luxurious morning treat. Made with slices of panettone, this recipe takes advantage of the bread's rich, buttery texture and sweet, fruity flavors, creating a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. The combination of eggs, milk, and spices creates a custard-like batter that perfectly envelops the panettone, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Historically, panettone hails from Milan and dates back to the 15th century, originally enjoyed during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Its unique flavor profile, featuring candied fruits and a hint of citrus, elevates this French toast to a new level of sophistication. Pair it with maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar, and you have a breakfast that feels like a special occasion, even on a Tuesday. Just remember, if you find yourself eating this every day, you might need to invest in some stretchy pants—consider it a delicious hazard of the job! To prepare this dish, you will need a few essential kitchen tools: a large mixing bowl, a whisk, a frying pan or griddle, and a spatula. The key to achieving the perfect French toast is to let the panettone soak in the custard mixture long enough to absorb the flavors without becoming overly soggy. Cooking it over medium heat ensures a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and moist. This recipe serves four, making it perfect for a cozy brunch with family or friends. So, whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply treating yourself to a decadent breakfast, Classic Italian Panettone French Toast is sure to impress. With its rich flavors and delightful texture, it’s a dish that brings a little bit of Italy to your morning routine. Just be prepared for the compliments—after all, who wouldn’t want to wake up to the aroma of sweet, buttery panettone wafting through the house?
Classic Italian Panettone French Toast
Variant: classic Servings: 4 Total: 30 mins

Ingredients

  • 8 slices panettone, sliced
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 0.5 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 cup fresh berries (optional)

Instructions

  1. Begin by gathering your ingredients and equipment. You will need a large mixing bowl, a whisk, a frying pan or griddle, and a spatula.
  2. In the mixing bowl, crack the 4 eggs and whisk them until well combined. Add in 1 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 0.5 teaspoon of nutmeg. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
  3. Take the 8 slices of panettone and arrange them in a single layer on a large plate or baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the panettone, ensuring each slice is well-coated. Let it soak for about 5 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through to absorb the custard evenly.
  4. While the panettone is soaking, preheat your frying pan or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and allow it to melt, coating the surface evenly.
  5. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, carefully place 4 slices of the soaked panettone onto the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
  6. Using a spatula, gently flip the slices and add another tablespoon of butter to the pan if needed. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side until golden brown.
  7. Remove the cooked slices from the pan and keep them warm on a plate covered with foil. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining slices of panettone.
  8. To serve, stack the French toast on plates and drizzle with maple syrup. For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar and add fresh berries if desired.
  9. Enjoy your Classic Italian Panettone French Toast warm, and savor the delightful combination of flavors. Remember, it’s perfectly acceptable to have seconds—after all, it’s a special occasion!

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 350
  • Carbs g: 45
  • Protein g: 10
  • Fat g: 15
  • Sugar g: 12
Tags: breakfast, brunch, panettone, french toast, italian, holiday, sweet, comfort food