Arlington Heights restaurant shares French toast recipe on Cooking up a Storm

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. (WLS) -- There's more going on in Arlington Heights, than just the proposed Bears stadium.

Hey Nonny is in the heart of downtown Arlington Heights.

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It's known for its from-scratch kitchen and live music.

Now, it's expanding with a brunch and lunch menu.

Chef Tim Vidrio joined ABC7 Chicago's Cooking up a Storm Thursday to make French toast.

Recipe

This recipe makes approximately 8 slices.

- Prep time: 5-10 minutes

- Cook time: 15-20 minutes

Ingredients

- Bread: 8 thick slices (about 3/4" to 1" thick) of brioche, challah, or Texas toast.

- Eggs: 4 large eggs.

- Milk: 2/3 to 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness).

- Sweetener: 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar.

- Flavorings: 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

- Salt: A pinch of salt to enhance flavors.

- Cooking: 2-4 tablespoons butter.

Instructions

1. Whisk the Custard: In a shallow dish or wide bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and no streaks of egg remain.

2. Heat the Pan: Place a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Melt a tablespoon of butter to coat the surface.

3. Soak the Bread: Dip a slice of bread into the mixture. Soak for about 15-20 seconds per side (less for thin bread, more for very stale, thick bread) until it feels heavy like a wet sponge but isn't falling apart.

4. Cook: Transfer soaked slices to the hot skillet. Fry for 2-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. The center should feel springy when pressed.

5. Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, and fresh berries.

Pro Tips for Success

- Prevent Sogginess: Use "day-old" or slightly stale bread. If your bread is fresh, you can lightly toast it in a 300F oven for 10-15 minutes to dry it out before dipping.

- Keep it Warm: If cooking for a group, place finished slices on a wire rack set over a baking sheet in a 200F oven while you finish the rest of the batch.

- Avoid Burnt Butter: Use a mix of butter and a little neutral oil to help prevent the butter from burning during longer cooking sessions.