Almond French Toast

These almonds are browned in butter to bring a nutty crunch to this classic French toast recipe. From Gourmet May 2006.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 4  large eggs
• 1 1⁄3 cups half-and-half
• 4  teaspoons sugar
• 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1⁄8 teaspoon salt
• 1 1⁄4 cups  sliced almonds (5 oz.)
• 8  slices  thick  challah
• 3  tablespoons butter

Directions

1. Put oven rack in middle position and preheat to 275ºF.
2. Whisk together eggs, half and half, sugar, vanilla and salt in a large shallow dish until well combined.
3. Spread almonds on a large plate.
4. Soak 4 slices of bread in the egg mixture, turning over once, until saturated.
5. Working with 1 slice at a time, remove the bread, letting the excess egg mixture drip off, then dredge in almonds to coat both sides, gently pressing to help adhere.
6. Transfer to a plate or wax paper. Repeat procedure with remaining 4 slices.
7. Heat 1 1/2 Tbs butter in a 12-inch heavy skillet over medium heat until foam subsides, then cook 4 bread slices, turning over once, until almonds and bread are golden brown, 5-6 minute.
8. Add the remaining 1 1/2 Tbs butter and cook the remaining 4 slices in the same manner. Transfer the cooked French toast to a baking sheet and keep warm in the oven while cooking the last 4 pieces.