French Toast Santa Fe

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400F.

2. 2

   Cut off and discard crusts from bread, then diagonally halve slices.

3. 3

   Arrange in 1 layer in a baking pan.

4. 4

   Whisk together cream, eggs, and salt, then pour over bread.

5. 5

   Soak bread, turning once, until most of liquid is absorbed but bread is not falling apart, about 2 minutes.

6. 6

   Carefully transfer soaked bread with a slotted spatula to a tray.

7. 7

   Heat 1/2 inch oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderate heat until thermometer registers 325F.

8. 8

   Fry bread, 3 pieces at a time, turning over once, until golden brown and crisp, about 2 minutes.

9. 9

   (Return oil to 325F between batches.)

10. 10

    Transfer toast to paper towels to drain briefly, then arrange in 1 layer on a baking sheet.

11. 11

    Once all bread is fried, bake toast in middle of oven until puffed, about 4 minutes.

12. 12

    Serve dusted with confectioners sugar.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.