Buffalo French Toast Recipe

Buffalo French Toast Recipe

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Ingredients

  • 4 eggs
  • cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons Buffalo wing sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • loaf rustic baguette, cut into 1-inch thick slices
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • cup grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, Buffalo wing sauce, and salt until well combined.

Step 2: Soak the baguette slices in the egg mixture, allowing them to absorb the liquid completely. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat until it starts to foam and bubble.

Step 4: Once the butter is foaming, place the soaked bread slices in the skillet. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the bread, pressing it gently into the holes of the slices.

Step 5: Fry the bread until the bottom is golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. Flip the bread over and sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on the second side.

Step 6: Cook the second side until its browned, another 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 7: Flip the bread again and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese becomes crisp and golden.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 345
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbs: 35g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 211mg
  • Sodium: 1428mg
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Total Sugars: 3g
  • Calcium: 182mg
  • Iron: 3mg
  • Potassium: 177mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Buffalo French Toast

History and Origin of Buffalo French Toast

Buffalo French Toast is a modern take on the traditional French toast, blending the rich, comforting flavors of breakfast with the bold, spicy taste of Buffalo wings. While French toast has its origins in ancient civilizations, particularly in Europe, the Buffalo sauce that gives this dish its unique twist comes from Buffalo, New York. The sauce, created in the 1960s by Teressa Bellissimo, quickly became a staple in American cuisine. This fusion of the two dishes is a relatively recent innovation, often seen in trendy brunch spots and home kitchens looking to explore new, exciting flavors.

Regional Characteristics of Buffalo French Toast

While French toast is enjoyed worldwide, the Buffalo wing sauce comes from a very specific regionthe city of Buffalo in New York. Known for its tangy, spicy, and buttery flavor, Buffalo sauce is traditionally paired with deep-fried chicken wings. The combination of this sauce with French toast adds a unique regional flair to an otherwise standard breakfast dish. Often, the dish is served in areas that are influenced by American comfort food culture, particularly in the Northeast and Midwest of the United States, where Buffalo wings originated.

What Sets Buffalo French Toast Apart?

Buffalo French Toast is distinct from traditional French toast in several key ways. First, it incorporates Buffalo wing sauce into the egg mixture used to soak the bread, adding a spicy and tangy profile to the otherwise sweet and mild taste of classic French toast. Additionally, Parmesan cheese is sprinkled over the toast, giving it a savory, crispy texture that contrasts with the softer, custardy interior of the bread. While traditional French toast is often sweetened with syrup or powdered sugar, Buffalo French Toast is designed to be a savory dish, perfect for those who enjoy bold, savory breakfasts or brunches.

Where is Buffalo French Toast Typically Served?

Buffalo French Toast is often served in modern cafes, bistros, and brunch spots, especially those that specialize in fusion dishes or comfort food with a twist. It can also be found in the homes of adventurous cooks looking to create a fun and flavorful breakfast. Its unique blend of spicy and savory flavors makes it ideal for brunches and weekend gatherings, particularly when paired with a strong cup of coffee or fresh juices. This dish is also popular in regions where Buffalo wings are a local favorite, adding an extra layer of local pride to the meal.

Interesting Facts About Buffalo French Toast

  • Buffalo wings, the inspiration for the sauce, were originally created as a late-night snack in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York.
  • The original French toast was created as a way to use up stale bread, making it an economical dish with a long history, dating back to Roman times.
  • Buffalo French Toast can be modified to suit various dietary needs, with vegan alternatives for the eggs and cheese, or gluten-free bread for those with dietary restrictions.
  • While Buffalo sauce is most commonly paired with fried chicken, its versatility has led to its incorporation into a wide variety of dishes, including pizza, pasta, and even salads.

FAQ about Buffalo French Toast Recipe

Leftover Buffalo French Toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to maintain its crisp texture.

Yes, you can use any type of bread, but a rustic baguette or thick-cut bread works best to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart. Sourdough or brioche are also great alternatives for added flavor.

Yes, you can freeze Buffalo French Toast. After cooking, let it cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.

Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture and soak the bread up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate the soaked bread. When ready to cook, simply fry the bread with butter and Parmesan as directed.

To make the Buffalo French Toast less spicy, reduce the amount of Buffalo wing sauce or opt for a mild sauce. You can also use a non-spicy hot sauce to add flavor without the heat.

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. The cheese will add a different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious.

Buffalo French Toast pairs well with a side of fresh fruit, a light salad, or even some crispy bacon for a savory breakfast. If you're looking for something creamy, you can serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a blue cheese dip.

The French Toast should be golden brown and crispy on both sides. When flipping, ensure the cheese is beginning to melt and become slightly crisp around the edges. The inside should be fully cooked but soft, with the bread fully absorbed with the egg mixture.

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the Buffalo wing sauce with a non-meat-based hot sauce or a vegetarian-friendly buffalo sauce. Make sure to check the ingredients of the sauce to ensure it's meat-free.

You should soak the bread for at least 30 minutes to ensure it fully absorbs the egg mixture. For a more intense flavor, you can soak it longer, up to 1 hour.

Comments

Patrick Nguyen

11/18/2023 03:21:22 PM

I found this recipe to be delicious and simple to prepare. I did double the amount of butter, as I believe you can never have enough butter!

Kevin Jackson

09/21/2023 12:50:05 PM

Fast and simple appetizer option!