Orange blossom brioche french toast

Christmas breakfast, anyone?

Orange and cinnamon is a flavor combination that will always hold a special place in my heart. One whiff, and I’m transported to my childhood kitchen, watching my mother pull Pillsbury orange rolls out of the oven. One taste, and I’m a kid again – warm and secure and happy.

Ah, food. How you transport me!!

It’s a taste that feels like Christmas morning to me, which is why I think this recipe is perfect for that occasion (though I’ve been known to spike my cinnamon rolls and French toast with a hit of orange all year round). I’ve added orange blossom to the orange-and-cinnamon mix as well, and the result is outstanding. It still had all those deeply cozy, warm hug flavors that I recall from all of those childhood Pillsbury rolls, but with a lighter, brighter note thrown in the mix. I don’t think I’ll ever go back.

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This is a fairly easy recipe that doesn’t require any forward-thinking, other than making sure you have all the ingredients on hand. It’s special enough for Christmas morning, but so good that I don’t think you should wait until then to make it.

Orange blossom water is an ingredient used in Middle Eastern cooking, and one that I grew up not so fond of, though as an adult I’ve come to absolutely adore it. You can find it at most Middle Eastern markets and many specialty stores, and even in some well-stocked liquor stores. Otherwise, Amazon is your best bet. Cortas is my go-to brand.

• 2 eggs

• 2/3 cup milk

• zest + juice of 1 orange

• 1 tbsp orange blossom water

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• pinch of salt

• 6 slices of brioche (I got mine at good ‘ol Trader Joe’s)

• Butter for cooking

• Whipped cream and syrup for serving (and dried oranges, if you’re feeling fancy)

Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, orange blossom water, orange zest and juice, and salt until well combined. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Dip each slice of bread in the egg mixture, then add to the pan and cook until browned on each side, about 3 minutes. Top with whipped cream, a dried orange slice, and syrup. Enjoy immediately.