Save
Crisp and golden on the outside with a melty peanut butter center, Hong Kong Style French Toast is the quickest breakfast treat that transforms everyday bread into something special for slow mornings or brunch with friends. Inspired by local Hong Kong cafes, this version comes together quickly with pantry basics and a little patience at the stove.
My first time making this was on a Saturday when I wanted something comforting and nostalgic. Even my neighbor came knocking from the smell and we polished off the whole plate within minutes.
Ingredients
- Milk bread or any soft square white bread: soft texture gives the classic light fluffy core, make sure it is fresh so it soaks the egg but holds its shape
- Smooth peanut butter or sub with Nutella or condensed milk: this gives the rich creamy inside, go for a high-quality brand for better flavor
- Eggs: help create the signature golden coating, fresh large eggs blend best for even crispness
- Vegetable oil: neutral oils like canola or sunflower make for even browning and no unwanted flavors, use new oil for clean taste
- Butter and condensed milk for topping: quality butter melts beautifully over the hot toast while real condensed milk gives that signature sweet finish
Instructions
- Build the Sandwich:
- Lay six slices of bread out flat. Spread a thin even layer of your chosen filling over four slices edge to edge. Stack two with peanut butter facing up then top with a plain slice for each to create two triple-layered sandwiches.
- Trim and Prepare:
- Take a bread knife and gently cut off all crusts so you have neat squares. This helps your toast cook evenly and ensures that iconic café look.
- Beat the Eggs:
- Crack both eggs into a shallow wide bowl and whisk until perfectly smooth. You want no streaks for an even coat.
- Dip the Sandwiches:
- Place each sandwich gently into the egg, turning to coat on all sides but not soaking so long that it falls apart. Place sandwiches upright on a plate so any excess can drip off.
- Heat the Oil:
- Pour enough oil into a heavy pan so you have about half an inch of depth. Set heat to low-medium and wait until it shimmers or reaches about three hundred degrees Fahrenheit for ideal frying.
- Fry the Toast:
- Using a wide spatula, lower each sandwich into the hot oil. Fry on each side including edges starting with the large flat sides for about one to two minutes each until deep golden. Gently turn to fry the edges for about thirty seconds a side. Remove to a rack or paper towels.
- Top and Serve:
- While still hot, place a knob of butter on each sandwich then drizzle generously with condensed milk. Serve immediately for best flavor and crunch.
The condensed milk is my favorite part, giving each bite childhood nostalgia and the caramel edge pairs so well with salty butter that it never lasts long enough to cool down in my house.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Once cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, they keep their texture for up to two days. Reheat slices on a nonstick pan over medium heat for two minutes per side to bring back crispiness. If you plan to make ahead, wait to add toppings until after warming for best results.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Swap peanut butter with chocolate hazelnut spread or even thick apple butter if you like a hint of tartness. Try whole grain bread for more texture if you want a heartier toast. Use coconut oil for frying if you want a hint of tropical fragrance.
Perfect Ways to Serve This
Cut into strips and stack high for sharing platters at brunch parties. Pair with sliced fruit or a drizzle of salted caramel for a dessert version. Serve with a side of strong milk tea for a true Hong Kong tea house feel.
Always let excess egg drip off before frying to keep the coating thin and crisp. If serving to a crowd, prep sandwiches ahead then dip and fry to order so everyone gets it piping hot.
Recipe Q&A
- → What kind of bread works best for this style?
Soft milk bread or any square-shaped white bread is ideal, as it holds together when soaked and fried.
- → Can other spreads replace peanut butter?
Yes, you can use Nutella, condensed milk, or any preferred nut butter for variation.
- → How do you prevent the toast from becoming soggy?
Lightly coat the sandwich in beaten eggs and avoid soaking it too long, which keeps it crisp.
- → What's the best frying technique for even color?
Fry on low-medium heat, turning sandwiches to achieve golden brown color on all sides evenly.
- → Which toppings complement this toast?
Butter, sweetened condensed milk, honey, or maple syrup all add delicious finishing touches.