Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free bread for this recipe?

You can certainly use alternative breads, but the texture will differ from the traditional version. Whole wheat bread tends to be denser and may not achieve the same light crispiness. For gluten-free options, choose varieties that hold together well when moistened. You might need to adjust frying time slightly depending on the bread density.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

While Hong Kong-Style French Toast is definitely an indulgent treat, you can make a few adjustments. Try using a natural peanut butter without added sugars, air-frying instead of deep-frying (though the texture will be different), or using a light drizzle of honey instead of sweetened condensed milk. Just keep in mind these changes will create a different—though still delicious—experience from the traditional version.

What's the difference between regular French toast and Hong Kong-Style French Toast?

Regular French toast typically consists of a single slice of bread soaked in an egg mixture and fried, then topped with maple syrup. Hong Kong-Style French Toast features a sandwich (usually with peanut butter) that's quickly dipped in egg mixture, deep-fried until golden, and topped with butter and sweetened condensed milk. The Hong Kong version is crispier, has a filling, and features different toppings.

Can I prepare the sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the peanut butter sandwiches up to a day ahead and store them wrapped in the refrigerator. However, I recommend dipping in the egg mixture and frying just before serving for the best texture and experience. Pre-dipped sandwiches will become soggy if they sit too long before frying.

Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe

Name: Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Hong Kong
Ingredients: 8 slices (1/2-inch thick) country white sandwich bread, pan de mie, or milk bread; 4 tablespoons peanut butter, divided; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons whole milk; 1 pinch kosher salt; 2 cups neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable); 4 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk, divided; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

Description

Hong Kong-style French toast is a unique twist on the classic French toast. Made with thick slices of bread, peanut butter filling, and fried to a crispy golden brown, this dish is rich, indulgent, and utterly delicious. Perfect as a breakfast treat, snack, or even a dessert, it’s generously topped with sweetened condensed milk and butter for an authentic Hong Kong café experience. Quick to prepare and irresistibly tasty, this recipe will become your new favorite!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the sandwiches:

8 slices (1/2-inch thick) country white sandwich bread, pan de mie, or milk bread
4 tablespoons peanut butter, divided

For the egg mixture:

2 large eggs
2 tablespoons whole milk
1 pinch kosher salt

For frying:

2 cups neutral oil (such as canola or vegetable)

For topping:

4 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk, divided
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

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Instructions

Prepare the oil
Heat 2 cups of neutral oil in a large high-sided or cast-iron skillet (at least 10 inches wide) over medium-high heat. Heat the oil until it reaches 350°F.
Assemble the sandwiches
Lay 4 slices of sandwich or milk bread on a cutting board. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter evenly over each slice, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Top each slice with another piece of bread to form sandwiches. Trim the crusts off each sandwich to create clean edges.
Prepare the egg mixture
In a wide, shallow bowl (such as a pie dish), whisk together 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of whole milk, and a pinch of kosher salt until smooth and combined.
Dip and fry the sandwiches
Once the oil is hot, dip each sandwich quickly into the egg mixture, making sure to coat all sides without soaking the bread. Fry 2 sandwiches at a time in the hot oil, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 1 1/2 minutes per side. Transfer the fried sandwiches to a paper towel-lined plate to drain briefly, then transfer to serving plates. Repeat this process with the remaining sandwiches.
Garnish and serve
Top each sandwich with 1 tablespoon sweetened condensed milk and 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Notes

Use thick-cut, soft bread like milk bread or pan de mie for the best texture and flavor.
The oil must be at the correct temperature (350°F) to ensure the bread cooks evenly without becoming greasy. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.
Avoid soaking the bread in the egg mixture for too long—it should just be lightly coated to prevent sogginess.
For an extra indulgent flair, try drizzling honey or serving with fresh fruit on the side.
This dish is best enjoyed immediately, as it may lose its crispiness after sitting for too long.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Calories: 400
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 250mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 85mg