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Literally 'lost bread,' this New Orleans classic transforms stale French bread into a decadent breakfast. Soaked in a rich, spiced custard and pan-fried to perfection, it's a sweet, satisfying start to any day.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Custard Bath
Soak the Bread Slices
Pan-Fry to Golden Perfection
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Literally 'lost bread,' this New Orleans classic transforms stale French bread into a decadent breakfast. Soaked in a rich, spiced custard and pan-fried to perfection, it's a sweet, satisfying start to any day.
This cajun_creole recipe takes 25 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 1114.95 calories per serving with 35.46g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for breakfast or brunch.
Serve and Garnish
Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the custard mixture for a different warm spice profile.
Add the zest of half an orange or lemon to the custard for a bright, fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.
Create a pocket in thicker slices of bread and stuff with a mixture of cream cheese, sugar, and fruit preserves before soaking and frying.
Serve topped with toasted pecans or almonds for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
The carbohydrates from the bread and sugar provide a rapid source of energy, making this a filling breakfast to start your day.
With eggs and milk as key components of the custard, Pain Perdu offers a good amount of protein, which contributes to satiety and helps you feel full longer.
The dairy and eggs in this recipe provide essential nutrients like calcium for bone health and Vitamin D, which supports immune function.
While similar, classic New Orleans Pain Perdu is typically richer than standard French toast. It often uses French bread, a higher ratio of cream and eggs in the custard, and includes flavorings like nutmeg and rum, resulting in a more decadent, custardy texture.
Yes, you can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with full-fat oat milk or a canned coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. Use a plant-based butter or coconut oil for frying.
Store leftover Pain Perdu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the slices on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain its crispy exterior better than microwaving.
Pain Perdu is an indulgent treat and is high in calories, fat, and sugar, so it's best enjoyed in moderation. It's not considered a health food, but it can be part of a balanced diet when eaten occasionally.
A typical serving of two slices of Pain Perdu, as prepared in this recipe, contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the exact bread used and the amount of butter absorbed. This does not include toppings like syrup or whipped cream.