Almond Croissant French Toast with Bacon Candy

Almond Croissant French Toast

(I adapted this by combining recipes from The Pioneer Woman and Bobby Flay.)

8 whole Croissants (a Rounder Shape Is Best)
5 whole Eggs
1/4 cup Half-and-half
2 Tablespoons Sugar
1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
¼ teaspoon almond extract
Butter, For Frying And Serving
Almond Butter Syrup, For Serving
Manderin Orange Slices, For Serving
Prepare BGE to 275-300 degrees, direct.
Split the croissants in half through the middle.

In a bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, sugar, cinnamon, almond extract and vanilla. Dunk each croissant half into the mixture so that it’s fully coated. Set pieces aside on a plate.

Heat a cast iron griddle over direct low heat, then melt a small amount of butter. Add as many pieces as will fit, cut side down, then increase the heat very slightly (don’t go above medium-low).

Allow the toast to cook on the first side for 3 to 4 minutes. Move it around in the skillet a bit to make sure it doesn’t burn. When it’s deep golden brown on the surface, flip it to the other side and let it cook for another 2 minutes or so.

Remove from the pan and cook the rest of the croissant halves.

ALMOND BUTTER SYRUP:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon pure almond extract

For the syrup: In a small sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter until it begins to shimmer. Add the almonds and sauté until lightly golden brown. Add the syrup and almond extract and cook until heated through. Keep warm.

Serve:

When we served this one morning with Bacon-Candy, it was true decadence and a mouthful of sheer happiness!

Simple plate the french toast and spoon some of the almond butter syrup over it. Take a few mandarin oranges and put on top. The oranges are not just for decoration, but add a delicious and surprising brightness! I have a slice with every bite,; it is that good!

Adding the Bacon-Candy just takes it to another level of “I cannot believe how good this is”, enjoyment!