Hong Kong-Style French Toast

Updated May 29, 2025

Hong Kong-Style French Toast
Mark Weinberg for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Michelle Gatton.
Total Time
15 minutes
Prep Time
5 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Rating
4(180)
Comments
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This mainstay of the cha chaan teng, or Hong Kong-style diner, transforms the humble peanut butter sandwich into something decadent thanks to a custardy golden-brown exterior that gives way to a warm, creamy filling. Typically deep-fried, this version uses a shallow-fry method for a treat that is easy to achieve at home. A melting pat of butter and drizzle of condensed milk provide the signature finish. The peanut butter may be replaced with any number of fillings, such as kaya (coconut jam), marmalade or chocolate-hazelnut spread. Serve this indulgent breakfast or snack alongside milk tea or coffee for an authentic cha chaan teng experience.

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Ingredients

Yield:4 servings
  • 2eggs
  • 2tablespoons milk
  • Salt
  • 8slices Japanese-style milk bread, white sandwich bread or brioche-style sandwich loaf
  • ¼ to ½cup smooth peanut butter
  • Neutral oil, for frying
  • Butter, sweetened condensed milk and flaky salt, for serving
Ingredient Substitution Guide
Nutritional analysis per serving (4 servings)

505 calories; 36 grams fat; 6 grams saturated fat; 0 grams trans fat; 19 grams monounsaturated fat; 9 grams polyunsaturated fat; 33 grams carbohydrates; 4 grams dietary fiber; 6 grams sugars; 15 grams protein; 312 milligrams sodium

Note: The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a wide shallow bowl or baking dish, whisk eggs, milk and a pinch of salt together until well combined. Line a plate with paper towels and set aside.

  2. Step 2

    Spread peanut butter over 4 slices of bread, avoiding the very edges. Top with remaining bread to form sandwiches. Cut off crusts and discard (or enjoy as a chef’s snack).

  3. Step 3

    Heat ¼ inch of oil in a large skillet over medium until a small drop of the egg mixture bubbles up and floats immediately.

  4. Step 4

    Working in batches if necessary, dip sandwiches in the egg mixture, turning to coat all sides. Let any excess drip off and immediately place sandwiches into the skillet. Fry until golden brown and crisp on the bottom, about 1 minute. Flip each sandwich and continue to cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, carefully spooning the hot oil over the tops and sides of each sandwich as the bottom reaches golden brown. (If using thick-sliced bread, skip this basting step and be sure to fry each short side as well until golden.) Transfer to the paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

  5. Step 5

    Serve each sandwich topped with a pat of butter, a drizzle of condensed milk and a sprinkle of flaky salt.

Ratings

4 out of 5
180 user ratings
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Comments

My mom used to make French Toast Peanut Butter Sandwiches when I was growing up in the 1950s. We ate them with maple syrup. I'm pretty sure they didn't have anything to do with Hong Kong, but she'd get a kick out of seeing this recipe in the NY Times.

@Dimples What makes it truly Hong Kong-style is that it is deep fried, per the recipe note.

Was unaware of the HKG connection, but my mom's family in upstate NY has been making PBFT (peanut butter French toast) like this since the 19th century. And as @Dimples notes, the sweet-and salty interplay between the melted, oozing peanut butter and a drizzle of warm NY maple syrup is not to be missed.

Since we have allergies to eggs and peanuts this recipe is obviously nutty.

While stationed in Iraq, we would put peanut butter between two French toasts then pour syrup on top. We all thought it tasted like a peanut butter cup...but I'm not sure if it really did or we were all just hoping for a taste of home. Thanks for the memory.

I am here for the comments. Not disappointed. Best of 2025.

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