If you love the comforting hug of classic French toast but crave a savory twist that dances on your taste buds, you are going to adore this Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe. Combining the aromatic, herbaceous notes of za’atar with the melty goodness of mozzarella and sharp cheddar, this dish transforms your usual breakfast staple into an unforgettable flavor experience. Each bite melds the crisp, golden exterior with gooey cheese and a fragrant sprinkle of Middle Eastern magic, making it a perfect treat for brunch or a leisurely weekend breakfast with friends or family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet carefully chosen ingredients is the first step to nailing this Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in creating its signature taste, texture, and beautiful golden color.
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (slightly stale preferred): Stale bread soaks up the egg mixture perfectly without falling apart.
- 4 large eggs: The base of the custard mixture that makes the toast rich and creamy.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and tenderness to the egg batter for the ideal French toast consistency.
- 2 tablespoons za’atar: A fragrant Middle Eastern spice blend that gives this recipe its uniquely vibrant flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers a gooey, stretchy texture that melts beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides a tangy, robust bite to balance the mild mozzarella.
- Butter or olive oil for frying: Ensures a crispy, golden crust while enhancing the rich taste.
- Pinch of salt: Balances all the flavors and helps the egg custard to shine.
How to Make Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cooking Surface
Start by heating a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat, then add a generous pat of butter or a splash of olive oil. This gentle temperature allows the bread to crisp gradually without burning, creating that perfect golden exterior we’re aiming for in this Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe.
Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, za’atar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and you can see all the lovely flecks of za’atar evenly dispersed. This fragrant, spiced custard is where your toast will soak up all the delicious flavor.
Step 3: Prepare for Dipping
Pour the egg mixture into a shallow dish. A wide, flat dish works best here as it makes dipping the bread slices easier and faster, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the custard.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
Take two slices of your thick-cut bread, and pile the shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese in between, creating a deliciously cheesy sandwich that will melt to gooey perfection when cooked.
Step 5: Dip the Sandwiches
Carefully dip both sides of each assembled sandwich into the egg mixture, allowing the bread to soak up just enough custard but not become soggy. This step is key to achieving that delightful balance of softness inside and a crispy outer crust in your Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe.
Step 6: Cook to Golden Perfection
Place the dipped sandwiches onto the preheated skillet, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You want to see a beautiful golden-brown color and hear that satisfying sizzle. The cheese inside will melt as the bread crisps up, creating a luscious contrast in texture and flavor.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Remove your newly cooked Za’atar and Cheese French Toast from the skillet and let them rest for about a minute. This little pause lets the cheese settle just right before slicing. Then cut into halves or quarters and serve warm to enjoy the melty, aromatic goodness.
How to Serve Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra za’atar on top for a pop of fresh herbaceous flavor and a beautiful visual touch. A drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of labneh adds creamy brightness and complements the cheese beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this toast with a simple cucumber and tomato salad tossed with lemon juice and olive oil to bring lightness and freshness. Roasted or sautéed greens like spinach also work wonderfully to balance out the dish’s richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe stacked high on a rustic wooden board with fresh herbs for a brunch spread. Alternatively, cut the sandwiches into small triangles and arrange them like finger food for an elegant appetizer or party snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps the toast moist while preserving the melty cheese inside.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the sandwiches before cooking. Wrap each sandwich securely in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. This way, they’ll keep well for up to a month and be ready to cook straight from the freezer.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the sandwiches in a skillet over low heat or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy again. Avoid microwaving to keep that prized crispness intact in your Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and sharp cheddar create a wonderful balance, feel free to experiment with cheeses like feta, halloumi, or even a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist that suits your taste.
Is za’atar easy to find?
Za’atar is becoming more common in many supermarkets, especially in the spice or international aisles. You can also find it in Middle Eastern grocery stores or buy it online. It’s worth having this versatile herb blend on hand for many flavorful dishes.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed or chickpea flour batter and use vegan cheese alternatives. Olive oil instead of butter keeps it dairy-free while still providing a lovely fried crust. However, the flavor profile will shift slightly from the original.
What bread works best for Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe?
Thick-cut, slightly stale bread like sourdough, country loaf, or even challah works best. Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better without falling apart, giving the perfect texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can assemble the sandwiches a few hours in advance and keep them refrigerated, then dip and cook right before serving to keep everything fresh and melty.
Final Thoughts
This Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe is an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves a savory breakfast with a Middle Eastern flair. Once you try these crispy, cheesy, herb-infused sandwiches, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and downright delicious—perfect for sharing with people you love or keeping all to yourself on a relaxed morning.
Print
Za’atar and Cheese French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A savory twist on classic French toast featuring za’atar-spiced egg mixture and a melty combination of mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheeses, perfect for a flavorful brunch or snack.
Ingredients
For the Za’atar Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons za’atar
- Pinch of salt
For the Sandwiches
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (slightly stale preferred)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For Cooking
- Butter or olive oil for frying
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Place a nonstick skillet or griddle on medium-low heat and add a small amount of butter or olive oil to coat the surface, preparing it for frying.
- Mix the egg batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, za’atar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined for dipping.
- Prepare the egg dip: Pour the egg and za’atar mixture into a shallow dish to make dipping the bread sandwiches easier.
- Assemble sandwiches: Layer shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese between two slices of bread to form the French toast sandwiches.
- Dip the sandwiches: Thoroughly dip each sandwich on both sides into the egg mixture, ensuring the bread is well coated but not overly soggy.
- Cook the sandwiches: Place the dipped sandwiches onto the heated skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese inside is fully melted.
- Rest and serve: Remove the cooked sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for 1 minute. Slice and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using slightly stale bread helps prevent the sandwiches from becoming too soggy when dipped in the egg mixture.
- Za’atar can be found at Middle Eastern grocery stores or specialty spice shops if unavailable in regular supermarkets.
- Adjust the amount of za’atar to your taste preference for a milder or stronger flavor.
- Butter will add richer flavor, while olive oil is a lighter option for frying.
- Serve warm and consider pairing with a fresh salad or a side of fruit for a balanced meal.
