My Favorite French Toast

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F.
2. 2
   In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, orange zest, vanilla, honey and salt.
3. 3
   Slice the challah in 3/4-inch thick slices.
4. 4
   Soak as many slices in the egg mixture as possible for 5 minutes, turning once.
5. 5
   Heat 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon oil in a very large saute pan over medium heat.
6. 6
   Add the soaked bread and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until nicely browned.
7. 7
   Place the cooked French toast on a sheet pan and keep it warm in the oven.
8. 8
   Fry the remaining soaked bread slices, adding butter and oil as needed, until it's all cooked.
9. 9
   Serve hot with maple syrup, raspberry preserves, and/or confectioners' sugar.