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Cozy Hot Cross Bun French Toast Recipe with Maple Syrup Drizzle

hot cross bun french toast - featured image
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A nostalgic and easy French toast recipe using hot cross buns soaked in a spiced custard and served with a rich maple syrup drizzle. Perfect for cozy weekend mornings or special holiday breakfasts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large hot cross buns, sliced thick
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) heavy cream (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Pure maple syrup, for drizzling
  • Optional: 1 tsp orange zest
  • Optional: A handful of toasted chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream if using. Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Slice the hot cross buns into thick slices about 3/4 inch thick.
  3. Soak each bun slice in the custard mixture for 20-30 seconds per side, ensuring they absorb enough custard but do not become soggy.
  4. Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon unsalted butter and swirl to coat the pan.
  5. Cook the soaked bun slices in the skillet without crowding, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and slightly crisp. Flip carefully using a spatula or tongs.
  6. Transfer cooked slices to a plate and keep warm in a low oven (around 200°F / 95°C) while cooking the remaining slices.
  7. Serve warm with a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup and optional toasted nuts or orange zest.

Notes

Use day-old or slightly stale hot cross buns for best soaking results. Adjust soaking time if buns are very fresh to avoid sogginess. Keep cooked slices warm in a low oven while finishing the batch. For dairy-free, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter. Gluten-free hot cross buns or thick gluten-free bread slices can be used as a substitute.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot cross bun, French toast, maple syrup, breakfast, brunch, easy recipe, cozy, holiday breakfast

Find it online: https://islatable.com/cozy-hot-cross-bun-french-toast-recipe-with-maple-syrup-drizzle-easy-and-delicious/