Saturday Brunch: Orange French Toast

I got inspired by how much response I got to my 25 Days of Cookies recipes, so I am going to try adding more yummy treats to the blog a few times a week.  Today I thought I'd share a different, but amazing take on French Toast - and I love that it's a make ahead recipe - perfect for a brunch party or just because... I also love that it's just a little bit unexpected...

Orange French Toast (Serves 4 to 6.)

6 eggs, beaten
1 cup (250 ml) orange juice
1/4 cup (60 ml) milk
1/4 tsp (1 ml) vanilla extract
The finely grated zest of 1 orange
A pinch of salt
12 thick slices of French bread
Butter or vegetable oil for frying

  1. Combine the eggs, orange juice, milk, vanilla, orange zest, and salt in a mixing bowl and mix well. 
  2. Dip the bread in the egg mixture and place in a container large enough to hold them in a single layer. 
  3. Pour any remaining egg mixture over the bread and refrigerate tightly covered overnight. 
  4. Fry in a little butter in a skillet or griddle over moderate heat until golden brown on both sides.
*I like to dust a little confectioners (icing) sugar on top of each slice, but you can do what you like... a raspberry puree would be heavenly... a little chocolate sauce (if I weren't allergic to chocolate...), the sky is the limit...