A challah loaf’s spongy texture makes it one of the best bread choices for French toast. With its crispy, golden-brown crust and custardy center, challah French toast should be the centerpiece of your next brunch.

Ingredients

• 1-1/2 cups half-and-half cream or 2% milk
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 8 slices day-old challah bread (1 inch thick)
• optional toppings: butter, maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream and confectioners' sugar

Directions

1. In a shallow dish, whisk together the first 8 ingredients. Preheat a greased griddle over medium heat.
2. Dip bread into egg mixture, letting it soak 5 seconds on each side. Cook on griddle until golden brown on both sides. Serve with toppings as desired.