I grew up with the classic version of French Toast: eggy bread, a dusting of powdered sugar, and maybe a drizzle of maple syrup if we were feeling fancy. Simple, satisfying, and always a good start to the day.

But sometimes, simple just needs a little…somethin’ extra. A little twist to wake up the tastebuds.

That’s where savory French toast comes in, and y’all, it is a revelation.

Forget the sweetness for a moment, and imagine this: golden-brown bread, infused with savory spices, and then…the swirl.

Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl.

The smoky cheese melts into the nooks and crannies, while the apple butter adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory notes. It’s a dance of flavors that will have you rethinking everything you thought you knew about French toast. Believe me.

This isn’t just breakfast; it’s an experience. I know that sounds strong, but I really think it is. It’s familiar, yet exciting, comforting, yet sophisticated. It’s the perfect way to elevate your brunch game.

I can’t wait for you to try my version of Savory French Toast, with its Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl. I’m sure you’re gonna love it!

Savory French toast might seem like a daring departure from the sweet, syrup-laden version we all know and love.

But trust me, y’all, it’s a delightful way to enjoy a comforting breakfast or brunch. It can even be a quick supper.

The key to a successful savory French toast lies in balancing the richness of the custard with complementary flavors. It’s a dance of salty, savory, and just a hint of sweetness.

For this recipe, I’ve chosen a robust bread. Think sourdough or challah, something that can stand up to the egg mixture without becoming soggy. Day-old bread always works best.

The custard itself is where the magic truly happens. We’re talking eggs, milk (or cream for extra richness), and a blend of savory seasonings. Garlic powder and onion powder lend depth, while a pinch of salt and pepper enhance all the other flavors.

Now, for my special touch: Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl.

Smoked Gouda brings a nutty, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the eggy bread. And a swirl of apple butter adds a touch of sweetness and warmth, creating a delightful contrast. It is subtle but oh so delicious.

The apple butter doesn’t overwhelm the savory notes; instead, it adds a layer of complexity that keeps you coming back for more.

The cooking process is similar to regular French toast. A hot skillet, preferably cast iron, and a generous knob of butter will ensure a golden-brown crust. Cook each side until it’s beautifully browned and the cheese is melted and gooey.

When you bite into this savory French toast, you’ll experience a delightful harmony of textures and tastes. The crisp exterior, the soft, custardy interior, the smoky cheese, and that subtle apple butter swirl all come together to create something truly special. This is comfort food, elevated.

Before we get started, let’s gather our ingredients for this delightful savory French toast. I think you’ll find the addition of smoked Gouda and apple butter adds just the right amount of Southern comfort to a traditionally sweet dish. The smoky cheese, along with a hint of sweetness, creates something truly special.

• 6 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated smoked Gouda cheese, plus more for topping
• 2 tablespoons apple butter, divided
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter, for cooking

Don’t be shy with the smoked Gouda; it’s the star of the show. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, but the smoked variety adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. This recipe is easily adaptable to your own tastes, so make it your own, y’all!

1. Whisk Together the Base

In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Make sure everything is well combined; this is the flavor base for our toast.

2. Prepare the Bread

Now, slice your bread if it isn’t already. I like to use a hearty brioche or challah for this, but a good sourdough will also work. The slices should be about 3/4 inch thick.

3. Add the Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl

Here’s where the magic happens. Take a slice of bread and spread a thin layer of apple butter on one side. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded smoked Gouda over the apple butter. Place another slice of bread on top to make a sandwich.

4. Soak the Sandwiches

Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are thoroughly soaked. Let it sit for about 30 seconds on each side so the bread really soaks up all that eggy goodness.

5. Cook the French Toast

Melt a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Carefully place the soaked sandwiches in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the Gouda is melted and gooey.

6. Serve Immediately

Once cooked, remove the French toast from the skillet and serve immediately. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of maple syrup (yes, really!) would be a nice touch. Enjoy this savory, cheesy, and slightly sweet breakfast or brunch treat!

Savory French toast offers so many possibilities, doesn’t it? It’s a delightful foundation for both breakfast and dinner. With a bit of imagination, it can become a truly special meal.

For breakfast, I love to top my Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl French toast with a fried egg. The runny yolk mingling with the savory cheese and sweet apple butter is just divine. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like chives or parsley, adds a pop of color and freshness.

Bacon or sausage is always a welcome addition, naturally. Consider a side of roasted tomatoes for a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness.

Come dinnertime, this French toast transforms into an elegant main course. I’ve found it pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or pork tenderloin. The subtle smokiness of the Gouda complements these meats beautifully.

A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing also makes a lovely accompaniment. Arugula or spinach would be my first choice.

You can even add a dollop of créme fraîche on top, if you’re feeling a little fancy. It adds a wonderful tang.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! That’s truly the joy of cooking. Perhaps some caramelized onions, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze? The possibilities are endless, y’all. Enjoy!

Leftover savory French toast? Why, I’m impressed you have any! But sometimes, even the best intentions lead to extra slices of our Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl French toast. Don’t you fret; I have a few tips to keep it tasting its best.

First, ensure your French toast is completely cooled before storing. This will prevent condensation from forming, which can make it soggy.

Storing:

Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn if you plan to store it long-term.

You can store savory French toast in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Or, freeze it for up to 2 months. I find that freezing is best to maintain the wonderful smoky gouda flavor.

Reheating:

To reheat, you have a few options. My preferred method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the French toast slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. This helps to crisp up the edges nicely.

You can also use a toaster oven for smaller portions. Just keep a close watch to prevent burning.

For a quicker method, you can microwave it. However, microwaving can make the French toast a bit softer. I recommend microwaving in 30-second intervals until heated through. It’s still delightful but lacks the crispness of the oven method.

Reusing:

Beyond simply reheating, you can get creative with leftover savory French toast! Think of it as a flavorful base for other dishes.

Cut the slices into cubes and toss them into a salad for a crouton-like element. The sweet apple butter offers a unique counterpoint to a savory salad.

You can also use it as a base for a quick breakfast sandwich. Top it with a fried egg and some extra cheese for a hearty start to your day. Leftover slices are delicious with ham as well.

Another option is to crumble it and use it as a topping for a casserole. The savory and slightly sweet flavor works surprisingly well. It can add some texture and delicious flavor.

Don’t let any of that delicious Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl French toast go to waste! With these tips, you can enjoy it for days to come in various ways.

Now, while I adore this Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl Savory French Toast just the way it is, I also understand that sometimes we need to make a few tweaks based on what’s in the fridge or pantry. Or maybe you just want to put your own spin on things. That’s perfectly alright, y’all!

So, let’s talk about some easy substitutions and variations you can make to this recipe.

• Cheese: If smoked gouda isn’t your thing, or you simply don’t have any on hand, feel free to substitute with Gruyere, sharp cheddar, or even a creamy brie. Each will lend its own unique flavor. I reckon a little pepper jack would be nice for a bit of zip.
• Apple Butter: While I think the apple butter swirl adds a delightful touch of sweetness that complements the savory elements, you can certainly swap it out. Try a fig jam, a balsamic glaze, or even a thin layer of pesto. For those who prefer no sweetness at all, you can simply omit it.
• Bread: I typically use a thick-cut brioche or challah for French toast, because they soak up the custard beautifully. However, you can use any bread you like. Sourdough would offer a nice tang, while a rustic Italian loaf would add some heartiness. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the custard.
• Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs in the egg custard. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or sage would all be lovely additions. A sprinkle of dried herbs works just fine too.
• Add-Ins: Consider adding some cooked bacon, ham, or sausage to the custard for an even heartier breakfast. Or, sauté some mushrooms, spinach, or caramelized onions to mix in.

Remember, cooking is all about experimentation and making a recipe your own. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have some fun with it. I hope these ideas inspire you to put your own special touch on this Savory French Toast. Happy cooking!

Let’s address some common questions about this delightful savory take on a breakfast classic.

What exactly is savory french toast?

Savory french toast is simply french toast made without the sugar and vanilla extract typically found in sweeter versions. Instead, it uses herbs, spices, and cheeses to create a completely different flavor profile.

Think of it as a blank canvas, ready for culinary exploration. Our version with Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl provides a particularly unique experience, blending smoky, tangy, and subtly sweet elements.

Can I use any type of bread for savory french toast?

While you can use many types of bread, some work better than others. I recommend using a sturdy bread that can soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.

Brioche, challah, or even a good sourdough are excellent choices. For the Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl french toast, a slightly sweet brioche complements the flavors beautifully.

What kind of cheese goes well with savory french toast?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! Gruyere, cheddar, parmesan, and goat cheese are all fantastic choices. They each bring a unique texture and taste to the dish.

For our Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl, the smoked gouda adds a wonderful depth and smokiness that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.

Is savory french toast suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the egg mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes busy mornings a breeze.

While the french toast is best served fresh, you can also cook it ahead of time and reheat it in the oven or toaster oven. I would recommend assembling the Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl version just before cooking to maintain the swirl’s beautiful presentation and prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

What are some good toppings for savory french toast?

Consider topping your savory french toast with a fried egg, sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

To complement the Smoked Gouda and Apple Butter Swirl, try adding crispy bacon, a sprinkle of chopped pecans, or a dollop of crème fraîche. Y’all are in for a treat!