Viva La French Toast from Village Inn features thick slices of fluffy, golden-brown bread soaked in a cinnamon-spiced egg batter, topped with powdered sugar and served with fresh berries and syrup, offering a deliciously sweet and satisfying breakfast experience.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Shallow dish or baking dish
- Frying pan or griddle
- Spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Plate (for serving)
- Sifter or fine mesh strainer (for powdered sugar)
- Ladle or large spoon (for batter)
Ingredients
- 4 thick slices brioche or Texas toast
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Butter (for frying)
- Powdered sugar (for topping)
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- Maple syrup
Using thick slices of brioche or Texas toast is essential for absorbing the cinnamon-spiced egg batter without becoming too soggy, ensuring a fluffy texture. Whole milk enhances the richness of the batter, while granulated sugar and ground cinnamon add a balanced sweetness and warmth. Vanilla extract intensifies the flavor profile, and a pinch of salt brings out all the ingredients' taste. Butter is crucial for frying, providing a golden-brown crust and preventing sticking. Your Viva La French Toast from Village Inn copycat menu will capture the authentic combination of flavors and textures that make this dish a satisfying breakfast choice.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture into a shallow dish or baking dish.
- Preheat frying pan or griddle over medium heat and add butter.
- Dip each bread slice into the egg batter, allowing it to soak for several seconds on each side.
- Place soaked bread slices onto the hot, buttered pan.
- Cook until golden brown on one side (about 2-3 minutes), then flip and cook the other side until golden and cooked through.
- Remove French toast from pan and place on a serving plate.
- Sift powdered sugar over the top using a sifter or fine mesh strainer.
- Top with fresh berries.
- Serve warm with maple syrup.
Substitution
Viva La French Toast from Village Inn copycat is best made with thick brioche or Texas toast to achieve its signature fluffy and golden texture. If brioche or Texas toast isn't available, use any thick, sturdy bread like challah or sourdough to prevent sogginess during soaking. Whole milk enriches the egg batter, but you can substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond milk to suit dietary preferences. Butter imparts a rich flavor when frying, but a neutral oil like canola can be used for a lighter option. Using a sifter for powdered sugar ensures an even dusting, enhancing presentation and sweetness when serving with fresh berries and maple syrup.
Tips
Ensure you soak the bread slices long enough in the egg batter to absorb the flavors but not so long that they become soggy and fall apart when cooking. Use medium heat on your frying pan or griddle to prevent burning the outside while keeping the inside soft and cooked through. Butter is essential for a rich flavor and crispy golden texture, so don't skimp when frying each slice. When serving, sift powdered sugar evenly with a fine mesh strainer for the best presentation, and add fresh berries to enhance both taste and visual appeal.
Nutritions
Viva La French Toast provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, with protein from eggs and whole milk, and carbohydrates from brioche or Texas toast. The dish offers essential vitamins and antioxidants through fresh berries, enhancing nutritional value. Cinnamon adds a subtle flavor along with potential blood sugar regulation benefits. For your energy needs and taste satisfaction, this breakfast combines indulgence with nutrient components efficiently.
Storage
Store leftover Viva La French Toast in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and texture. Refrigerate for up to 2 days and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to preserve its golden-brown crispness. Your French toast can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute brioche or Texas toast with challah or sourdough bread for a different texture and flavor profile. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk to make the dish dairy-free and add a subtle nutty taste. For a richer custard, replace one egg with two egg yolks or add a splash of heavy cream to the egg mixture. Try toasting the bread lightly before soaking it to add extra crispness when frying.
Allergies
Viva La French Toast contains common allergens such as eggs, milk, and wheat, which may trigger reactions for individuals with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients. The use of brioche or Texas toast introduces gluten, and the presence of cinnamon could cause sensitivity in some people. You should always check ingredient labels and consult with your healthcare provider if you have specific food allergies before consuming this dish.
Why this recipe?
Viva La French Toast from Village Inn restaurant is beloved for its thick, fluffy slices soaked in a rich cinnamon-egg batter that delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The golden, crisp exterior complements the soft interior, creating an irresistible texture that tantalizes your taste buds. Topping options like fresh fruit, whipped cream, and maple syrup enhance each bite, making it a versatile and satisfying meal. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy this signature flavor combination at home, saving money while customizing ingredients to your preference.