French Toast in a Mug

'I’m a firm believer that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, not just for the usual reasons, but also simply because the offerings ? from bacon to cheesy eggs to cinnamon rolls ? are so scrumptious. French toast proves my point. With the help of a mug and the microwave, it’s now an any-day option, even on the busiest mornings. Don’t forget the syrup!' says author of 250 Best Meals in a Mug, Camilla Saulsbury

16-oz (500 mL) mug

1 tbsp              granulated sugar                                                   15 mL

1?8 tsp             salt                                                                               0.5 mL

1?8 tsp             ground cinnamon                                                0.5 mL

1                        large egg                                                                               1

1?2 cup           milk                                                                           125 mL

1?4 tsp             vanilla extract (optional)                                     1 mL

11?4 cups      bread cubes (preferably stale) or small plain croutons              300 mL                   

In the mug, use a fork to whisk sugar, salt, cinnamon, egg, milk and vanilla (if using) until very well blended. Add bread cubes, stirring and pressing them down into the custard to absorb the liquid. Let stand for at least 15 minutes (so the bread absorbs the liquid). Press bread down with a fork to compact.

Microwave on High for 11?2 to 21?2 minutes (checking at 11?2) or until firm to the touch and liquid is absorbed. Serve with any of the suggested accompaniments, as desired.

Suggested Accompaniments

Confectioners’ (icing) sugar; pure maple syrup; butter

Variations

Orange Marmalade French Toast: Replace the sugar with an equal amount of orange marmalade.

Buttermilk French Toast: Replace the milk with buttermilk, and replace the cinnamon with a pinch of ground nutmeg.

Banana French Toast: Reduce the milk to 1?4 cup (60 mL) and add 1?3 cup (75 mL) mashed very ripe banana. Replace the sugar with packed brown sugar.

Tip

Add up to 2 tbsp (30 mL) raisins or chopped dried fruit, or 1 tbsp (15 mL) miniature semisweet chocolate chips with the bread.

Prep Ahead Option

Whisk the sugar, salt, cinnamon, egg, milk and vanilla (if using) in the mug, then add the bread cubes; cover and refrigerate until ready to use.