Tres Leches French Toast with Cinnamon and Vanilla (Torrejas de Navidad)

Tres Leches French Toast, or Torrejas de Navidad, is a festive and indulgent twist on the classic breakfast favorite. This delightful dish features thick slices of bread soaked in a rich mixture of three kinds of milk—evaporated milk, condensed milk, and whole milk—infused with hints of cinnamon and vanilla. The bread absorbs the creamy mixture, resulting in a decadently moist and flavorful treat.

Cooked to a golden brown, each slice is served warm, often dusted with powdered sugar and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added warmth. Adding a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream enhances the sweetness, making it the perfect brunch option or holiday dessert. Torrejas de Navidad brings a touch of holiday cheer to the table, celebrating the festive spirit with every delicious bite.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients
1. 4 slices of bread (Challah or Brioche)
2. 2 large eggs
3. 1 cup milk
4. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
5. 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
6. 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
7. 1 cup tres leches mixture (evaporated milk, condensed milk, heavy cream)
Latin Spices
1. 1/4 tsp ground anise
2. 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Optional Ingredients
1. Chopped pecans or walnuts
2. Fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries)
3. Whipped cream
Pantry Staples
1. Salt
2. Butter or oil

Cooking Instructions

Preparing Egg Mixture
1. In a shallow dish, whisk eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, anise and nutmeg.
Soaking Bread
1. Dip bread slices into egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Cooking French Toast
1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
2. Add butter or oil.
3. Cook French toast for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
Tres Leches Mixture
 Combine evaporated milk, condensed milk and heavy cream.
Assembling Torrejas
1. Place cooked French toast on a serving plate.
2. Drizzle tres leches mixture over French toast.
Garnishing
1. Sprinkle cinnamon.
2. Add chopped nuts or fresh fruit (if using).

Nutrition and Variations

Nutrition Information (approx.)
1. Calories: 350
2. Protein: 15g
3. Fat: 15g
Variations
1. Substitute bread with croissants or bolillo.
2. Add diced fruit (bananas, apples) to egg mixture.
3. Use different types of milk (almond, soy).

Tips and Presentation

Garnishes
1. Chopped nuts
2. Fresh fruit
3. Whipped cream
Plating
1. Serve French toast on a decorative plate.
2. Drizzle tres leches mixture artistically.
3. Garnish with cinnamon and chopped nuts.

Conclusion

Tres Leches French Toast with Cinnamon and Vanilla (Torrejas de Navidad) is a delicious and traditional Kitchen Latino Christmas breakfast recipe, perfect for:

-Family gatherings
-Holiday brunches
-Special occasions