Ingredients
Bread
- 1 loaf stale French bread, sliced into 1.5 inch thick slices (about 12-15 slices)
Soaking Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups warm milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Egg Mixture
- 3 large eggs
For Frying
- Oil for frying (canola or vegetable oil)
Topping
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare liquids: Pour the warm milk and vanilla extract into a shallow bowl. In a separate shallow bowl, crack the eggs and beat them well until smooth.
- Mix topping: Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside for garnishing later.
- Heat oil: Pour enough canola or vegetable oil into a large skillet to cover the bottom of the pan evenly. Heat the oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking, preparing to fry the bread slices.
- Soak bread slices: Dip each bread slice in the warm milk mixture on both sides, allowing each slice to soak thoroughly but not become soggy. Then dip the soaked bread slices into the beaten eggs on both sides, ensuring an even coating.
- Fry the torrijas: Place the egg-coated bread slices into the hot skillet. Fry each side for a few minutes until golden brown and cooked through, flipping carefully to avoid breaking the bread.
- Drain and sprinkle: Remove the fried torrijas to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil. While still warm, sprinkle them generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Alternatively, drizzle with honey if preferred.
- Serve: Serve the torrijas warm for the best taste, or refrigerate and enjoy them cold as a sweet treat.
Notes
- For authentic texture, use stale or day-old French bread as it absorbs the liquids better without falling apart.
- You can substitute vanilla extract with orange blossom water for a different aromatic flavor.
- Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil for frying to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors.
- If you prefer a healthier version, bake the torrijas on a greased baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) until golden instead of frying.
- Serve with honey or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
- Store leftover torrijas covered in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best quality.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Spanish