Tropical Twist on a Breakfast Classic: Coconut French Toast

French toast is a beloved breakfast dish, but have you ever tried putting a tropical spin on it with the addition of coconut?

This coconut French toast recipe takes the classic custard-dipped bread and infuses it with the sweet, nutty flavor of coconut.

The result is a breakfast that transports you to a beach-side bungalow, even on the chilliest of mornings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a taste of the tropics in every bite.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of day-old bread (such as brioche or challah)
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut, plus more for serving
• Butter or coconut oil for cooking
• Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, coconut milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
2. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of shredded coconut.
3. Dip the bread slices into the coconut milk mixture, coating both sides.
4. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter or coconut oil.
5. Cook the coconut French toast in batches, for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
6. Serve the coconut French toast warm, dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with maple syrup, or topped with whipped cream and additional shredded coconut, if desired.

Tips and Variations

• Use day-old bread for best results, as it will soak up the coconut milk mixture better.
• Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste preference – you can use less for a less sweet version.
• Try using different types of bread, such as sourdough or cinnamon-swirl bread, for a unique twist.
• Top with fresh tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, or kiwi for an even more island-inspired flavor.
• For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread.

Coconut French toast is a delightful and unexpected way to enjoy a breakfast classic. The rich, tropical flavors of coconut perfectly complement the eggy, custard-like texture of the French toast, creating a truly indulgent and satisfying meal. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical vacation or simply looking to add some excitement to your morning routine, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.