Cinnamon, the fragrant spice derived from the bark of certain trees, has been used for centuries in cooking and baking. Its warm and sweet flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes, including desserts, beverages, and even savory dishes. One of the most popular ways to use cinnamon is in French toast, a classic breakfast dish loved by many. In this article, we will explore how to use cinnamon sticks for French toast and add a spicy twist to your breakfast!
Why Use Cinnamon Sticks?
Cinnamon sticks are a great way to infuse the flavor of cinnamon into your French toast. Unlike ground cinnamon, which can sometimes clump together or settle at the bottom of the batter, cinnamon sticks provide a more consistent and even distribution of flavor. The sticks also release their aroma and flavor slowly, giving your French toast a delightful and lingering taste.
Choosing the Right Cinnamon Sticks
When it comes to choosing cinnamon sticks for your French toast, quality matters. Look for sticks that are firm, aromatic, and free from any mold or discoloration. The best cinnamon sticks are usually light brown in color and have a slightly sweet and spicy fragrance.
Preparing the Cinnamon Sticks
Before using cinnamon sticks in your French toast, it’s essential to prepare them properly. Start by gently crushing the sticks to release their flavor. You can do this by pounding them with a mortar and pestle or using the flat side of a chef’s knife to crush them. Be careful not to crush them into a fine powder; you want the sticks to remain intact to infuse the flavor gradually.
Recipes: Cinnamon Stick-Infused French Toast
Now that you understand the importance of cinnamon sticks let’s dive into some delicious cinnamon stick-infused French toast recipes!
Recipe 1: Classic Cinnamon Stick French Toast
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 tablespoon of butter
– Maple syrup and powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the milk and cinnamon stick. Heat the mixture over low heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes to allow the cinnamon stick to infuse its flavor into the milk.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Slowly pour in the infused milk while stirring continuously.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter.
4. Dip each slice of bread into the egg and milk mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side.
5. Place the soaked bread onto the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve the French toast hot with maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.
Recipe 2: Caramelized Cinnamon Stick French Toast
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of brioche bread
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– Caramel sauce and whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and sugar until well combined.
2. Place the cinnamon stick in a small saucepan and pour the egg mixture over it. Heat the mixture over low heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes to infuse the cinnamon flavor.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter.
4. Dip each slice of brioche bread into the egg and milk mixture, making sure all sides are coated.
5. Place the soaked bread onto the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until caramelized.
6. Serve the French toast hot with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Extra Tips for Cinnamon Stick-French Toast
– If you don’t have cinnamon sticks on hand, you can substitute them with ground cinnamon. However, make sure to reduce the amount by half because ground cinnamon has a more concentrated flavor.
– For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding other spices such as nutmeg or cardamom to your French toast batter.
– To keep your French toast warm while cooking in batches, preheat your oven to its lowest setting and place the cooked slices on a baking sheet inside the oven.
– Experiment with different types of bread, such as challah, whole wheat, or even croissants, to add variety to your breakfast.
– Feel free to get creative with toppings! Apart from the classic maple syrup and powdered sugar, you can try fresh fruits, chocolate chips, toasted nuts, or even a savory twist like bacon.
Conclusion
Using cinnamon sticks for French toast can elevate this beloved breakfast dish to a whole new level. The aromatic and flavorful spice will delight your taste buds and add a touch of warmth and sweetness to every bite. Whether you prefer the classic version or want to explore more adventurous variations, cinnamon stick-infused French toast is sure to become a favorite breakfast treat. So, grab some cinnamon sticks, give these recipes a try, and enjoy a deliciously spiced breakfast to kickstart your day!