Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread that is lightly battered and fried to make the best French Toast I've ever had. Perfect for Christmas! Or perfect for a Thursday afternoon all by yourself. We don't judge round here.
Preheat your oven to the warm setting, about 170 degrees F. Place a baking sheet inside, with a cooling rack set on top. (You will use this to keep your toast warm.)
Preheat a grill pan or large frying pan to medium heat (350 degrees F)
Slice the loaf of bread into 1/4 or 1/2 inch slices.
In a shallow dish (such as a pie plate) add the flour. Slowly pour in the milk while you whisk it together. Add the salt, cinnamon, vanilla, sugar, and eggs. (Beat the eggs in a separate bowl, if that's easier for you.) Beat together.
Add a slice of bread to the batter, or as many as will fit on your plate at a time. Let it soak in for 20 seconds or so, then flip.
Add a little butter or shortening to the pan and swirl to coat.
When the butter is hot, add the soaked bread. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until browned on the bottom, then flip over. Cook for another 2-4 minutes or until golden. If you sliced your toast thick, you may need to fry the edges as well.
Place the finished toast on the cooling rack in the warm oven until ready to serve.
Serve with maple syrup, fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar!