Easy Hong Kong French Toast

This indulgent Hong Kong Style French Toast transforms ordinary bread into a crispy, golden masterpiece with a gooey peanut butter center in just 10 minutes. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and melty filling makes this a beloved Hong Kong diner classic you can easily recreate at home.

I discovered this recipe during my travels to Hong Kong and became instantly obsessed with how such simple ingredients could create something so magical. Now it's my go to weekend treat when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Milk bread: Provides the perfect soft texture and slight sweetness traditional for this recipe
• Large eggs: Create that essential golden crispy coating when fried
• Smooth peanut butter: Adds a rich creamy center that melts beautifully
• Vegetable oil: Ensures even cooking and that signature crispy exterior
• Butter: Adds a luxurious finish that elevates the flavor profile
• Sweetened condensed milk: Creates that authentic Hong Kong cafe experience

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Sandwich:

Take two slices of milk bread and spread peanut butter evenly from edge to edge on one side of each slice. Be generous but not excessive about a tablespoon per slice creates the perfect amount of filling without oozing out during frying. Take a third slice of plain bread without any spread and create a triple decker sandwich with the peanut butter sides facing inward. Press down gently to seal.

Trim the Crusts:

Using a sharp bread knife carefully slice off all crusts to create a perfect square. This step is essential not just for aesthetics but helps seal the edges better for frying and creates that classic Hong Kong style look. Save the crusts for making breadcrumbs if desired.

Egg Coating:

Beat the eggs thoroughly in a shallow wide bowl until completely smooth with no streaks of white remaining. Dip the trimmed sandwich into the beaten eggs quickly but thoroughly ensuring all sides get coated. Don't soak too long or the bread will become soggy and difficult to handle. Let excess egg drip off.

Frying Technique:

Heat oil in a large heavy bottomed pan to medium low about 300°F. The oil should come up about half an inch in the pan. Carefully lower the sandwich into the hot oil. Fry each side until golden brown about 30 seconds for the thin edges and 1 to 2 minutes for the larger flat surfaces. Use tongs or a slotted spatula to gently flip and ensure even browning on all sides.

Finishing Touches:

Transfer the fried toast to a paper towel lined plate to absorb excess oil. While still hot top with a pat of butter which will melt luxuriously into the crispy surface. Drizzle generously with sweetened condensed milk creating beautiful sweet streaks across the toast.

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My favorite part of this recipe is watching the peanut butter slowly melt as you cut into the toast. That first bite with the crispy exterior giving way to warm gooey peanut butter gets me every time. It reminds me of leisurely breakfasts at traditional Hong Kong cafes where time seems to slow down.

The History Behind The Toast

Hong Kong Style French Toast known locally as 西多士 sai dor si is a staple at cha chaan teng casual Hong Kong style cafes that blend Western and Eastern culinary traditions. This dish emerged during Hong Kong's British colonial period combining Western style french toast with local preferences for peanut butter and condensed milk. Unlike Western french toast which is typically served flat Hong Kong style is distinctively stacked and fried on all sides creating a three dimensional treat.

Smart Substitutions

If you can't find milk bread regular white sandwich bread works well though the texture will be slightly different. Brioche is another excellent substitute that adds extra richness. For a healthier version consider using whole grain bread and natural peanut butter reducing the oil by half and shallow frying instead. Those with nut allergies can substitute the peanut butter with sweet red bean paste chocolate spread or even cream cheese for a different yet delicious experience.

Serving Suggestions

For an authentic Hong Kong cafe experience serve your french toast alongside a cup of Hong Kong style milk tea or yuan yang a coffee tea hybrid. While traditionally enjoyed as a standalone snack you can elevate it to a full breakfast by adding fresh fruit on the side to cut through the richness. For special occasions try serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream transforming it into an indulgent dessert.

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This Hong Kong Style French Toast is no ordinary breakfast—it's a bite of indulgence you won't forget.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes Hong Kong French Toast different from regular French toast?

Hong Kong French Toast is distinct because it uses Asian milk bread stuffed with peanut butter to create a sandwich that's then deep-fried (not just pan-fried). It's typically served with butter and condensed milk rather than maple syrup, creating a unique sweet-savory flavor profile that's characteristic of Hong Kong cafe cuisine.

→ Can I use regular bread instead of milk bread?

Yes, you can substitute Asian milk bread with any square-shaped white bread or egg bread. The texture might be slightly different, as milk bread is especially fluffy and absorbs the egg mixture well, but regular white bread will still yield delicious results.

→ What oil is best for frying Hong Kong French Toast?

Neutral oils with high smoke points work best, such as avocado oil, sunflower oil, grapeseed oil, peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil. Avoid olive oil, coconut oil, or any strongly scented oils as they can affect the flavor of the final dish.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use regular white bread instead of milk bread (which might contain dairy), substitute the condensed milk with condensed coconut milk or maple syrup, and use vegan butter instead of regular butter.

→ What should I serve with Hong Kong French Toast?

Hong Kong Style French Toast pairs perfectly with Hong Kong Style Milk Tea for an authentic experience. You can also serve it with fresh fruit, whipped cream, honey, or maple syrup as alternative toppings to the traditional butter and condensed milk.

→ Can I prepare Hong Kong French Toast in advance?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in a pan over medium heat until hot. Freezing is not recommended as it affects the texture.