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Crispy Spanish Torrijas French Toast Recipe with Easy Honey Citrus Glaze

crispy spanish torrijas french toast - featured image

A crispy and tender Spanish-style French toast with a bright and soothing honey citrus glaze, perfect for brunch or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Rustic white bread, sliced thick (day-old or slightly stale is best for soaking)
  • 1 cup whole milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
  • 3 large eggs, beaten (room temperature for best soaking)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, for frying
  • 1/4 cup raw honey
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about one medium orange, freshly squeezed)
  • Zest of one lemon
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • Pinch of sea salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Custard Soak: In a large shallow dish, whisk together 1 cup (240 ml) of whole milk, 3 large eggs, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon until fully combined.
  2. Soak the Bread: Cut rustic bread into slices about 1-inch thick. Place each slice in the custard mixture, soaking about 30 seconds per side until saturated but not falling apart.
  3. Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Let it melt and bubble but not brown too fast.
  4. Cook the Torrijas: Transfer soaked bread slices to the pan. Fry each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.
  5. Make the Honey Citrus Glaze: Combine 1/4 cup raw honey, 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, zest of one lemon, 2 tablespoons water, and a pinch of sea salt in a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring gently until honey dissolves and mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
  6. Plate and Glaze: Transfer torrijas to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess butter. Arrange on serving platter and drizzle warm honey citrus glaze generously over each slice.
  7. Serve immediately while warm and crisp with sticky fresh glaze.

Notes

Use day-old or slightly stale bread for best soaking without falling apart. Medium heat prevents burning and greasy slices. Butter adds flavor and browns well; mixing with a little vegetable oil can prevent burning. The honey glaze should be pourable but not watery; adjust water or simmer time accordingly. Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: torrijas, Spanish French toast, honey citrus glaze, brunch recipe, crispy French toast, easy breakfast