# What You'll Need:
→ Bread
01 - Brioche, 8 thick slices (about 1-inch thick)
→ Almond Cream
02 - Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened
03 - Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup
04 - Almond flour (finely ground almonds), 1 cup
05 - Large eggs, 2
06 - Almond extract, 1/2 teaspoon
07 - Vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon
08 - Salt, pinch
→ Soaking Mixture
09 - Whole milk, 1 cup
10 - Large eggs, 2
11 - Granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon
12 - Vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon
13 - Salt, pinch
→ Topping
14 - Sliced almonds, 1/2 cup
15 - Powdered sugar, for dusting
→ For Cooking
16 - Unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons (plus more as needed for batches)
# How-To Steps:
01 - In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the almond flour, eggs, almond extract, vanilla extract and a pinch of salt; mix until the mixture is smooth and spreadable.
02 - In a shallow dish, whisk together the milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until fully combined and slightly frothy.
03 - Spread a generous layer of the almond cream onto one side of each brioche slice, smoothing to the edges but keeping the layer even so it adheres during soaking.
04 - Working gently, dip each slice into the soaking mixture with the almond cream side facing up; allow the bread to absorb the liquid for about 15 seconds per side, handling carefully to avoid tearing.
05 - Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat until hot but not smoking, then add 1 tablespoon of butter and let it melt and coat the surface.
06 - Place the soaked brioche slices on the skillet cream side up. Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side, adjusting heat as needed, until both sides are golden brown and the almond cream is set; cook in batches and add more butter between batches.
07 - While the final batch cooks, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for 2 to 3 minutes, until they are golden and fragrant; remove immediately to prevent burning.
08 - Serve the warm slices topped with toasted sliced almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar; offer maple syrup or whipped cream at the table if desired.
