Easy 10-Minute Hong Kong-Style French Toast
If you’ve ever visited a Hong Kong-style café (Cha Chaan Teng), you’ve probably seen Hong Kong-Style French Toast on the menu. Unlike traditional French toast, this crispy, buttery, and indulgent treat is deep-fried, stuffed, and topped with condensed milk, syrup, or butter. It’s the ultimate comfort breakfast or snack, ready in just 10 minutes!
Whether you’re a French toast lover or just looking for a quick and delicious recipe, this is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside – Golden-fried and buttery!
✔ Sweet & Indulgent – Drizzled with condensed milk, syrup, or honey.
✔ Quick & Easy – Just 10 minutes from start to finish!
✔ Authentic Hong Kong Flavor – A staple in Cha Chaan Teng cafés.
✔ Customizable – Add peanut butter, Nutella, or fruit jam for extra flavor!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Toast:
- 2 slices thick white bread (milk bread or brioche works best!)
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or jam, Nutella, or kaya)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying)
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable or peanut oil)
For Toppings:
- 1 tablespoon butter (to melt on top)
- 2 tablespoons condensed milk
- Maple syrup or honey (optional)
How to Make Hong Kong-Style French Toast
1. Prepare the Sandwich
- Spread peanut butter (or your favorite filling) on one slice of bread, then place the other slice on top, forming a sandwich.
2. Make the Egg Batter
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together egg, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
3. Coat the Bread
- Dip the entire sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully soaked but not falling apart.
4. Fry Until Crispy
- Heat oil (about 1 inch deep) in a pan over medium heat.
- Carefully deep-fry the sandwich for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
5. Add the Toppings & Serve
- Place the fried toast on a plate.
- Top with a slab of butter and drizzle condensed milk (or syrup).
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Best Ways to Enjoy Hong Kong-Style French Toast
✔ With Hong Kong-Style Milk Tea – The classic pairing!
✔ With Fresh Fruit – Sliced bananas, strawberries, or mango add a fresh contrast.
✔ With Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla or matcha ice cream takes it to the next level.
✔ With Kaya Jam – A Southeast Asian twist!
✔ With Salted Butter & Honey – A simple yet delicious option.
Pro Tips for the Best French Toast
🔹 Use Thick Bread – Milk bread, brioche, or Texas toast works best.
🔹 Don’t Soak Too Long – Just enough to coat the bread without making it soggy.
🔹 Fry at Medium Heat – Too hot, and it burns; too low, and it gets greasy.
🔹 Use Peanut Butter or Kaya Jam – The classic Hong Kong-style fillings.
🔹 Deep Fry for Authentic Texture – This makes it extra crispy and golden brown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Air Fry or Pan Fry Instead?
Yes!
- Air Fryer: 375°F for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Pan Fry: Use butter and cook over medium heat for 3 minutes per side.
Can I Make It Without Peanut Butter?
Of course! Try Nutella, fruit jam, or even cream cheese.
How Do I Store & Reheat?
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Air fry or pan-fry for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Hong Kong-Style French Toast!
This Hong Kong-Style French Toast is crispy, sweet, and ultra-satisfying. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a late-night treat, this easy 10-minute recipe is a true comfort food classic.
Try it today and bring a taste of Hong Kong to your kitchen! 🍞🥜🥛