Hong Kong-Style French Toast: A Crispy, Buttery Delight

There’s something incredibly comforting about French toast, but when you take that classic dish and give it a Hong Kong twist, it becomes a whole new level of indulgence. Hong Kong-style French toast, or “Sai Dor See” (西多士), is a beloved cha chaan teng (Hong Kong café) staple that transforms simple bread into a crispy, golden, and ultra-buttery treat.

Unlike traditional French toast, this version is deep-fried, giving it a beautifully crisp outer layer while remaining soft and custardy inside. Typically served with a drizzle of syrup and a pat of butter, it’s a dish that embodies both decadence and nostalgia. Whether you’ve had it at a bustling café in Hong Kong or you’re trying it for the first time, this recipe brings that same magic to your home kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside – The deep-frying process ensures the perfect texture balance.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor – You likely already have everything you need in your kitchen.
• A taste of Hong Kong at home – Recreate this beloved café dish without the need for a plane ticket.
• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert – This dish is versatile and always satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 slices of thick white bread
• 2 tablespoons peanut butter (or your preferred filling)
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt
• Cooking oil for deep frying
• 1 tablespoon butter (for serving)
• Maple syrup or condensed milk (for drizzling)

How to Make Hong Kong-Style French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by taking two slices of white bread and spreading peanut butter on one slice. If you’re not a peanut butter fan, you can use kaya (coconut jam), Nutella, or even plain bread for a classic version. Press the second slice of bread on top, making a sandwich.

Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Make sure it’s well combined, as this will give your toast that rich, custardy coating.

Step 3: Coat the Sandwich

Dip the sandwich into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are fully soaked. Let it sit for a few seconds so the bread absorbs the liquid, but don’t let it get too soggy, or it may fall apart when frying.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or small pot, heat enough cooking oil to submerge the bread. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test it by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles and turns golden quickly, it’s ready.

Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the soaked sandwich into the hot oil and fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn it gently and avoid splashes. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Serve with Butter and Syrup

Place your crispy Hong Kong-style French toast on a plate. Add a generous pat of butter on top and drizzle with maple syrup or condensed milk. The heat from the toast will melt the butter, creating an irresistible, buttery-sweet bite.

Helpful Tips for the Best Hong Kong-Style French Toast

• Use thick-cut bread – A soft, thick slice (like milk bread or brioche) works best for soaking up the egg mixture without falling apart.
• Don’t oversoak – Letting the bread soak too long can make it too fragile when frying.
• Maintain oil temperature – If the oil is too cold, the toast will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
• Try different fillings – Peanut butter is traditional, but feel free to get creative with kaya, sweet red bean paste, or even fruit jams.
• Serve immediately – This toast is best enjoyed hot and crispy right after frying.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving
• Category: Breakfast, Brunch, Dessert
• Method: Deep-Frying
• Cuisine: Hong Kong
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• Bread Thickness Matters – Using thick-cut white bread like milk bread or brioche helps maintain the structure when frying and creates the perfect crispy exterior with a soft, pillowy center.
• Oil Temperature is Key – If the oil is too cold, the bread will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, the outside will brown too quickly while the inside remains undercooked. Aim for 350°F (175°C).
• Alternative Cooking Methods – While deep-frying gives the most authentic texture, you can pan-fry the toast in a little butter if you prefer a lighter version. Air-frying is also an option for a healthier take.
• Filling Options – While peanut butter is traditional, you can experiment with kaya (coconut jam), Nutella, fruit jam, or even a savory filling like cheese for a unique twist.
• Serving Suggestions – Classic toppings include butter and condensed milk or syrup, but you can also add fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
• Best When Fresh – This dish is best enjoyed immediately while hot and crispy. If you must store leftovers, reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Storage Instructions

Hong Kong-style French toast is best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the toast soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without deep frying?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can pan-fry the toast with butter instead of deep-frying. It won’t be as crispy but will still taste delicious.

What type of bread works best?

Thick white bread, such as milk bread, brioche, or Texas toast, is ideal because it holds up well when soaked and fried.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a non-dairy milk alternative and plant-based butter to make a dairy-free version.

Is this similar to Western French toast?

While both versions involve soaking bread in an egg mixture, Hong Kong-style French toast is unique because it is deep-fried and often filled with peanut butter or other spreads.

Related Recipes

If you enjoyed this Hong Kong-style French toast, you might also love these other delicious treats:

• Savory French Toast: A Flavorful Twist on a Breakfast Classic
• Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
• Overnight Crème Brûlée French Toast
• Blueberry Stuffed French Toast: A Brunch Delight

Conclusion

Hong Kong-style French toast is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy fried bread, creamy peanut butter, and buttery sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re reminiscing about a trip to Hong Kong or simply craving something indulgent for breakfast or dessert, this easy recipe brings that iconic café experience straight to your kitchen.

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