This Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast has 52% fewer calories than your traditional French toast! Yep, you read that right – more than half! If you happen to have a large family, or like to have company over for brunch, you should definitely add this French toast to your menu. It is so simple to prepare that whipping up a huge batch is a cinch. I have also included two additional variations at the end of the recipe – try making a batch of each so everyone can have their French toast just the way they like it. You may just discover a new favorite of your own.
Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast
Equipment
- 1 shallow bowl or pie pan
- 1 heavy non-stick skillet or griddle
- 1 large platter
Ingredients
- 8 slices whole wheat bread (preferably stale)
- 2 large egg whites, lightly beaten
- ⅔ cup skim milk
- 1 tablespoon grated orange rind
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl or pie pan whisk the egg whites, milk, orange juice, and orange rind until blended. Spray a heavy non-stick skillet or griddle with cooking spray over medium heat (if preparing a larger batch, preheat the oven to 200 degrees to keep french toast warm).
- Dip the bread slices into the egg mixture and coat both sides well. Place each slice in the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
- Continue with the remaining slices of bread, respraying the skillet as needed to prevent sticking. Serve warm with honey, maple syrup, fruit preserve, or just a light dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar.
- This French toast goes great alongside a large platter of fresh fruit, turkey sausage, and any of our low-cal muffins baked in mini-muffin tins!!
Variations:
- Maple French Toast: Substitute 1 tablespoon maple extract or syrup for the grated orange rind.
- Spiced French Toast: Substitute 1 teaspoon each ground cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla extract for the orange rind.
Video
Notes
Alternative Method: Baked Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast
If you’re looking to switch up your cooking method and achieve a slightly different texture for your Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast, try the baked version using your trusty oven. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup of low-fat milk, 1/4 cup of fresh orange juice, 2 tablespoons of honey, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Dip each slice of whole wheat bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated. Allow any excess mixture to drip off.
- Arrange the soaked bread slices in a single layer in the greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle each slice with a pinch of cinnamon for added warmth.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the French toast is golden and crisp on the edges.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. The French toast will continue to firm up slightly as it cools.
- Serve the baked Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast with your favorite toppings, such as a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, and a sprinkle of freshly grated orange zest.
The baked method offers a slightly drier and more bread-like texture compared to the stovetop version. It’s a wonderful option if you prefer a crispier exterior and a softer interior. Enjoy this delightful twist on the classic French toast straight from the oven!
Cooking Tips
To ensure the best results for your Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast, here are some valuable cooking tips and insights on common mistakes to avoid:
- Soak it Right: Allow each slice of bread to soak in the egg mixture for a sufficient amount of time. This ensures that the flavors penetrate the bread and results in a moist and flavorful French toast.
- Gentle Heat: Cook the French toast over medium-low heat to ensure even cooking without burning. This gentle heat allows the bread to soak up the flavors while maintaining a soft and fluffy texture.
- Non-Stick Goodness: Use a non-stick skillet or griddle to prevent the French toast from sticking and to achieve a beautifully golden crust.
- Zest it Up: Don’t forget to zest the oranges before juicing them! The zest adds an extra punch of citrusy flavor to the dish.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the French toast in batches, giving each slice enough space in the pan. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a soggy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast is ready to be served, let’s explore some delightful ways to enjoy it:
- Perfect Pairings: Serve the French toast with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a creamy and sweet contrast. Fresh berries or sliced bananas also make a delicious addition.
- Citrus Infusion: Enhance the citrusy flavors by serving the French toast with a side of orange segments or a refreshing citrus salad.
- Whipped Cream Dream: Top your French toast with a swirl of homemade whipped cream for an indulgent touch. Dust it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Brunch Delight: Create a complete brunch experience by serving the French toast alongside crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and a selection of freshly squeezed juices.
- Creative Twists: Get creative and transform your French toast into a dessert by layering it with vanilla ice cream and drizzling it with caramel sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted nuts for some extra crunch.
FAQs
We’ve gathered some frequently asked questions about the Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast. Here are the answers you’ve been looking for:
Can I make the Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the French toast in advance and reheat it in a toaster or oven before serving. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftover Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat it in a toaster or oven to restore its crispness.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah bread is commonly used for French toast, you can experiment with other bread varieties such as whole wheat, multigrain, or even cinnamon raisin for added flavor.
Can I use store-bought orange juice instead of fresh oranges?
Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best flavor for this recipe. However, if you prefer using store-bought orange juice, choose one without added sugars or additives.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a plant-based alternative such as mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce. Use non-dairy milk and ensure the bread you choose is vegan-friendly.
Experience the citrusy delights of our Low-Fat Orange Scented French Toast. Learn how to make this flavorful and guilt-free breakfast dish with ease. Dive into cooking tips, serving suggestions, and find answers to common questions. Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends and subscribe to our blog for more culinary inspiration!