Rick and Ann's French Toast

Rick and Ann's French Toast by Angie

Ingredients:

Topping
1 cup mixed berries: blackberries, raspberries, sliced strawberries, blueberries
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
Extra sliced strawberries for garnish


French Toast
2 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch salt
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup half-and-half
1/8 teaspoon vanilla
4 thick slices challah, cinnamon swirl or sturdy white bread
2 teaspoons unsalted butter

Instructions:
 Crush the mixed berries in a bowl. Add the sugar and lemon zest; set aside for at least 5 minutes or up to 30 minutes.

For the French toast:
Whisk together the eggs, sugar, cinnamon and salt in a shallow bowl. Add the milk, half-and-half and vanilla.

Dip the bread slices into the egg mixture, letting each soak half a minute or so.

Melt the butter in a nonstick skillet or a griddle. Fry the bread slices, in 2 batches if necessary, until well browned, turning once. Remove to warm plates.

Divide the berry mixture over the toast, letting it drip down the sides. Garnish each plate with the sliced strawberries.