Shelly's Recipe

ALMOND CIABATTA FRENCH TOAST

Category: French Toast

3 large eggs
2 pinches salt
3 tbsp sugar
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp almond extract
1 1/4 cups whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
Eight 1-inch slices round ciabatta bread
Unsalted butter, for cooking
1 cup sliced almonds
Maple syrup or a dollop of ricotta cheese, topping
Heat a griddle over medium-low heat.

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs well. Whisk in the salt, sugar, vanilla and almond extract. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Pour the mixture into a shallow baking dish. Working in batches if necessary, place the bread in the dish and let it soak for 3 minutes; then turn the slices over and soak on the other side.

Butter your griddle and let the butter bubble. Just before placing the soaked bread slices on the griddle, place almonds in a single layer (but fairly densely packed) on the griddle, forming an area the size and shape of a bread slice. Press one side of the bread into the almonds on the griddle, and cook until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Flip the bread to the other side and cook until speckled golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes. Serve hot with maple syrup or a dollop of ricotta cheese. Serves 4 to 6