Every Christmas, I look forward to Christmas morning brunch! For years we’ve had the tradition of making French toast from one of our favorite restaurants in La Jolla. Brockton Villa makes a “coast toast” that’s absolutely to die for. It has everything you want in a French toast plus a little kiss of an orange flavor that’s unexpected and absolutely delicious. I like to add a little cinnamon to make it more “holiday” but this recipe is perfect for any special occasion brunch!

ingredients

1 loaf soft French bread (sliced diagonally, about 1 1/2″ thick)

1 quart whipping cream

10 eggs

3/4 cup orange juice

1/2 cup sugar

a pinch of salt

2 Tbs. vanilla

2 Tbs. orange flavoring

Directions

Combine liquid ingredients.  Pour over bread slices.  Cover and refrigerate at least one hour.  Remove bread and discard liquid.  Spread butter on flat grill.  Cook bread until golden brown, then bake at 450 degrees for 5-7 minutes or until break is puffed up like a souffle.  Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle maple syrup.

Merry Christmas!

xx,

CKS