It was one of those lazy Sunday mornings when I first treated myself to Hong Kong-style French toast. The kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of sizzling butter and the rich scent of peanut butter melting into crispy bread—pure bliss! I was searching for something a bit more exciting than the usual eggs and toast, and this delightful twist stole my heart.

What sets this recipe apart is its unique combination of textures and flavors: soft, creamy peanut butter sandwiched between golden-fried bread, drizzled with sweetened condensed milk—it’s a breakfast experience that feels indulgent yet comforting. Perfect for a cozy brunch with friends or a cheerful pick-me-up after a long week, these French toast sandwiches are a crowd-pleaser that might just make you forget about fast food forever. Join me as we dive into this easy, flavorful, and utterly delicious recipe that transforms ordinary mornings into extraordinary feasts!

Why Try Hong Kong-Style French Toast?

Amazingly Unique: This recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite that your taste buds will thank you for.
Simple to Make: With just a few staple ingredients, you can whip up something extraordinary without fuss.
Irresistibly Flavorful: The combination of peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk creates a heavenly taste that dances on your palate.
Perfect for Sharing: These sandwiches are ideal for brunch with friends or a family gathering—everyone will want to dive in!
Time-Saving Option: Quick to cook, this dish gets you out of the kitchen and enjoying your meal in no time.

Elevate your breakfast game with this scrumptious recipe that makes mornings feel special!

Hong Kong-Style French Toast Ingredients

For the Sandwiches
• Neutral Oil – 2 cups for frying until golden and crispy.
• Country White Sandwich Bread – 8 slices add that perfect soft texture.
• Peanut Butter – 4 tablespoons, a creamy center makes each bite irresistible.

For the Egg Coating
• Large Eggs – 2, whisked to create a fluffy outer layer.
• Whole Milk – 2 tablespoons help enrich the egg mixture.
• Kosher Salt – 1 pinch enhances overall flavor.

For the Topping
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – 4 tablespoons drizzled to add a touch of sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter – 2 tablespoons make your French toast irresistibly rich.

Elevate your breakfasts with this delightful twist on Hong Kong-style French toast that’s easy to make and entirely satisfying!

How to Make Hong Kong-Style French Toast

Heat the Oil: Pour 2 cups of neutral oil into a large high-sided or cast-iron skillet, and warm it over medium-high heat until it reaches 350ºF—perfect for frying!
Assemble the Sandwiches: On a cutting board, lay down 4 slices of your chosen bread. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on each slice, leaving a 1/2-inch border, then cap each with a second slice. Don’t forget to cut off the crusts!
Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a wide, shallow bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of whole milk, and a pinch of kosher salt until well blended and frothy—this will create a delicious coating.
Dip the Sandwiches: Once the oil is hot, quickly dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, making sure to coat all sides without letting it soak. You’re aiming for a light, fluffy layer!
Fry the Sandwiches: Carefully add 2 sandwiches at a time to the hot oil. Fry them for about 1 1/2 minutes on each side, or until they are deep golden brown and crispy—oh, the heavenly aroma!
Drain and Serve: Transfer the fried sandwiches to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess oil. Once drained, plate each sandwich with excitement for the next step!
Add the Toppings: Top each French toast sandwich with 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk and half a tablespoon of unsalted butter—this is where the magic happens! Serve them up hot and enjoy.

Optional: Drizzle with additional sweetened condensed milk for an extra touch of sweetness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Hong Kong-Style French Toast?

Pair your delightful French toast with tantalizing sides that enhance your breakfast or brunch experience, creating a feast of flavors.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the toast beautifully.
Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon pairs wonderfully with the sweet and creamy sandwich, creating a delicious contrast.

Imagine the warm, crispy bacon juxtaposed against the sweetness of the French toast—it’s a mouthwatering combination!

Maple Syrup: Drizzle this classic topping over your French toast for a sweet touch that complements the peanut butter perfectly.
Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy yogurt can add tang, providing a cool contrast to the warm, decadent sandwich.

The creaminess of yogurt adds a refreshing layer, making each bite even more delightful!

Iced Coffee or Milk: Pair with a refreshing iced coffee for a pick-me-up or cold milk to wash down the richness.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle elevates the sweetness while adding a touch of warmth—perfect for a cozy treat.

Each of these pairings not only enhances the flavors of your Hong Kong-style French toast but also takes your meal to the next level of indulgence!

Make Ahead Options

These Hong Kong-style French toast sandwiches are perfect for busy mornings or meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the sandwiches (just spread peanut butter and sandwich the bread) up to 24 hours in advance, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The egg mixture can also be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just give it a quick whisk before dipping the sandwiches. When you’re ready to enjoy, heat the oil and quickly dip and fry as instructed for delicious results that taste just as fresh! These tips will help you save time while ensuring your French toast remains indulgently satisfying.

Hong Kong-Style French Toast Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Your taste buds are in for an adventure with these exciting twists.

Nut Butter Swap: Replace peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor. Both offer a delightful creaminess that will surprise your palate!
Bread Variety: Try brioche or challah instead of country white bread, adding a richer taste and slightly sweeter texture that elevates each bite.
Sweetener Twist: Instead of sweetened condensed milk, drizzle with pure maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetness that complements the dish beautifully.
Fruit Addition: Slice ripe bananas or strawberries to include inside your sandwich before frying. The fruit caramelizes, adding a fresh, fruity twist that balances the richness.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg mixture for a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the French toast without overpowering the peanut butter.
Savory Option: Spread avocado instead of peanut butter for a savory take on this dish. Top with a sprinkle of cheese or a poached egg for a brunch that sings!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version that everyone can enjoy without losing any deliciousness.
Hearty Texture: Add a layer of crushed cereal (like cornflakes) on the egg-covered sandwiches before frying for an extra crunchy layer that takes these French toasts to the next level!

How to Store and Freeze Hong Kong-Style French Toast

Fridge: Store any leftover French toast sandwiches in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.

Freezer: Freeze assembled but uncooked sandwiches wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before frying.

Reheating: To reheat cooked sandwiches, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and crispy. Avoid the microwave for best results!

Storage Tip: Make sure to keep the sandwiches well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn, maintaining that delicious flavor of your Hong Kong-style French toast!

Expert Tips for Hong Kong-Style French Toast

Bread Choice: Use thick slices of country white bread that holds up well during frying. Avoid thin bread that can become soggy.
Hot Oil: Ensure your oil reaches 350ºF for perfectly crispy sandwiches. Too cool oil will result in greasy French toast.
Quick Dipping: Dip sandwiches quickly in the egg mixture. Soaking can lead to a soggy texture, ruining the delightful crunch.
Even Frying: Fry only 2 sandwiches at a time to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can reduce the oil temperature.
Garnish Creatively: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings! Add sliced bananas, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a touch of cinnamon for extra flavor.

Hong Kong-Style French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of bread works best for Hong Kong-style French toast?
I recommend using country white sandwich bread that’s about 1/2-inch thick, like pan de mie or milk bread. This type snaps to a perfect crisp while keeping a soft inside, providing the ideal texture for your French toast sandwiches.

How should I store leftover Hong Kong-style French toast?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the sandwiches in a skillet over medium heat to maintain that delicious, crispy texture—you’ll love the results!

Can I freeze uncooked Hong Kong-style French toast sandwiches?
Absolutely! Assemble the sandwiches but do not fry them. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. To cook, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before frying as usual.

What if my French toast isn’t crispy enough?
If your sandwiches turn out soggy, make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350ºF) before frying. Also, avoid soaking the bread in the egg mixture—just a quick dip will do! Fry them in batches to ensure they cook evenly, giving you that golden brown crisp every time.

Is there a way to make this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Certainly! For a nut-free version, simply replace the peanut butter with a seed butter alternative like sunflower seed butter. It’s a great way to keep the essence of the recipe while making it safe for those with nut allergies.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the sandwiches the night before and keep them covered in the fridge, ready for frying in the morning. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness without the morning rush!