Torrijas: Irresistible Spanish French Toast with Anise Syrup Recipe

Introduction

Torrijas are a beloved Spanish treat similar to French toast, soaked in a fragrant anise syrup and fried to golden perfection. This recipe brings together warm spices and citrus notes for a comforting dessert or breakfast that’s both crispy and tender.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf thick stale French or Italian-style baguette
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 sticks cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon anise extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Slice the thick stale baguette on the bias into 1-inch thick slices.
2. Step 2: Prepare the syrup by combining water, granulated sugar, honey, orange zest, kosher salt, and cinnamon sticks in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil for 1 minute, then reduce heat and simmer for 7–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in anise and almond extracts.
3. Step 3: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until well combined.
4. Step 4: Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, soaking for 30 seconds to 1 minute to absorb the batter fully.
5. Step 5: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the soaked bread slices for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
6. Step 6: Arrange the fried torrijas on a platter and pour the warm anise syrup generously over them. Let them soak for at least 20 minutes before serving to absorb the flavors.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before serving for a delightful flavor contrast.

Tips & Variations

• Use very stale bread to ensure it soaks up the syrup without becoming mushy.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and use oil instead of butter for frying.
• Add a splash of dark rum or brandy to the syrup for an adult twist.
• Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the sweet and spiced syrup.

Storage

Store leftover torrijas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or a skillet to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?

While fresh bread can be used, stale bread is preferred because it absorbs the syrup better without falling apart, resulting in a better texture.

How can I make the torrijas less sweet?

You can reduce the sugar and honey in the syrup or serve the torrijas without pouring all the syrup over them, letting guests add syrup as desired.

Torrijas: Irresistible Spanish French Toast with Anise Syrup Recipe

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Torrijas is a traditional Spanish twist on French toast, featuring thick slices of stale baguette soaked in a rich egg and milk batter, fried to golden perfection, and drenched in a fragrant anise-infused syrup. This delightful dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet, citrus, and warm spice flavors, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting treat.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Spanish

Ingredients

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Bread

• 1 loaf thick stale French or Italian-style baguette

Syrup

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 2 sticks cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon anise extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract

Batter

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk

For Frying & Finishing

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions

1. Slice the Bread: Slice the thick stale baguette diagonally into 1-inch thick slices to ensure optimal soaking and frying texture.
2. Prepare the Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine water, granulated sugar, honey, orange zest, kosher salt, and cinnamon sticks. Bring the mixture to a boil for 1 minute, then reduce heat and simmer for 7-10 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in anise and almond extracts. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until fully combined, creating a smooth batter for soaking the bread.
4. Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg and milk mixture, allowing it to soak for 30 seconds to 1 minute to absorb the batter thoroughly without becoming too soggy.
5. Fry the Torrijas: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the soaked bread slices for about 3 minutes per side, or until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through.
6. Soak in Syrup: Arrange the fried torrijas on a serving platter and pour the warm anise syrup generously over them. Allow the torrijas to sit for at least 20 minutes to absorb the syrup before serving.

Notes

• Using stale bread is crucial to prevent the slices from falling apart when soaked.
• The syrup can be prepared in advance and gently reheated before use.
• Adjust soaking time depending on the bread’s dryness; too long may cause sogginess.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk.
• This dish is best served warm or at room temperature to enjoy the full flavor.

Keywords: Torrijas, Spanish French Toast, Anise Syrup, Breakfast, Dessert, Cinnamon, Orange Zest, Honey Syrup, Fried Bread