Hong Kong Style French Toast
When it comes to comfort food in Hong Kong, few dishes strike a nostalgic chord quite like Hong Kong Style French Toast. This crispy, golden, deep-fried snack has become a staple in cha chaan tengs (local diners), offering a sweet and satisfying bite that captures the essence of East-meets-West cuisine.
Unlike the Western version, this toast isn’t simply dipped in eggs and pan-fried. It’s a decadent dish made with thick slices of bread, a luscious peanut butter or kaya jam filling, and topped with condensed milk, golden syrup, or even ice cream.
🍴 Origins of Hong Kong Style French Toast
This local twist on a European classic is believed to have emerged during the post-war era when Western influences were being adapted into Hong Kong’s working-class food scene. It was the cha chaan tengs—Hong Kong’s response to British cafés—that reimagined the traditional pain perdu or eggy bread into something entirely unique.
According to TasteAtlas, this iconic toast—known locally as “Xi Duo Shi”—features two slices of milk bread slathered with peanut butter, dipped in egg batter, and deep-fried to golden perfection.
It’s not just a snack; it’s a cultural emblem. As the Hong Kong Tourism Board explains, cha chaan tengs are more than eateries—they’re institutions that shaped Hong Kong’s identity through food.
🧈 Key Ingredients For Hong Kong Style French Toast
The classic Hong Kong French Toast uses simple yet indulgent ingredients:
- White sandwich bread or milk bread (shokupan)
- Peanut butter or kaya jam (coconut jam)
- Eggs (for the dipping batter)
- Butter (usually a thick slab placed on top)
- Condensed milk, golden syrup, or honey
- Vegetable oil (for deep-frying)
- Optional toppings: ice cream, meat floss, ham
Start your day with these Mediterranean Baked Feta Eggs — a flavorful, protein-packed breakfast with a fresh Mediterranean twist.
🔪 Traditional Preparation Method Of Hong Kong Style French Toast
Making Hong Kong Style French Toast is relatively straightforward, but each step is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor:
- Assemble the filling: Spread peanut butter or kaya between two slices of bread.
- Dip in egg batter: Whisk eggs with a touch of vanilla extract.
- Deep-fry: Fry until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
- Top it off: Serve with a slab of butter on top and drizzle with condensed milk or syrup.
Pro Tip: Use slightly stale bread to better absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
🧂 Flavor Variations to Try
One of the most exciting aspects of Hong Kong Style French Toast is its versatility. While the classic version features peanut butter or kaya between two slices of milk bread, topped with condensed milk and butter, creative variations continue to emerge, offering sweet, savory, and even fusion twists.
🍫 Sweet Variations
- Nutella or Chocolate Spread
Swap out peanut butter for Nutella or chocolate ganache for a rich, dessert-style twist. - Custard or Cream Cheese Filling
Popular in modern cafés, this variation creates a creamy center that oozes out with each bite. - Banana & Kaya Combo
Add sliced banana to kaya jam for a tropical, naturally sweet flavor and a soft interior texture. - Churro-Coated Toast
Inspired by cinnamon sugar churros, this version is deep-fried and rolled in cinnamon sugar, often served with dulce de leche. - Matcha or Red Bean Fillings
Perfect for lovers of Japanese flavors, matcha cream or anko (red bean paste) give it an earthy, lightly sweet profile.
🧀 Savory Variations
- Satay Beef Toast
This spicy, savory take includes a filling of marinated satay beef and is usually topped with savory sauce instead of syrup. - Ham and Cheese
A favorite among locals looking for a filling breakfast, it’s a savory spin with melted cheese that contrasts beautifully with the eggy toast. - Pork Floss & Scallion
Adds a salty, umami-packed crunch, popular in fusion bakeries across Asia.
🌍 Global Twists
- Strawberry Jam & Cream Cheese – Reminiscent of a French toast cheesecake.
- Taro & Coconut – A Southeast Asian favorite, earthy and slightly sweet.
- Biscoff Spread – Adds caramel flavor and a cookie crunch to the toast experience.
With endless combinations, Hong Kong Style French Toast can easily suit any palate—from traditionalists to adventurous eaters.
🌏 Comparing with Other Toasts
How does Hong Kong French Toast stack up against other regional styles?
| Version | Ingredients | Cooking Method | Toppings |
|---|---|---|---|
| American | Egg, milk, cinnamon | Pan-fried | Maple syrup, berries |
| Japanese | Shokupan, custard | Light fry or toast | Whipped cream |
| Singaporean Kaya Toast | Kaya, butter | Toasted | Served with soft eggs |
| New Orleans Pain Perdu | Stale French bread | Pan-fried | Cane syrup, powdered sugar |
| Hong Kong Style | Peanut butter/kaya, eggs | Deep-fried | Condensed milk, butter |
🥛 Best Drink Pairings
A delicious plate of Hong Kong Style French Toast isn’t complete without the perfect beverage to complement its rich, deep-fried flavor and sweet toppings. Whether you prefer a traditional pairing or want to explore global-inspired options, these drinks offer the ideal balance to the toast’s buttery, syrupy goodness.
🇭🇰 Classic Pairing: Hong Kong-Style Milk Tea (奶茶)
This is the undisputed companion to Xi Duo Shi. Made by steeping strong black tea with evaporated or condensed milk, Hong Kong-style milk tea is known for its bold, silky texture and slightly bitter undertones. The contrast cuts through the toast’s richness, making each bite more enjoyable.
🍋 Iced Lemon Tea (凍檸茶)
Another cha chaan teng favorite, this refreshing black tea with fresh lemon slices offers a zesty and cooling balance to the toast’s warmth and sweetness. It’s perfect for hot days or when you need something less creamy than milk tea.
☕ Coffee or Yuan Yang (Coffee + Milk Tea)
For those who enjoy bolder caffeine, a classic HK-style coffee or Yuan Yang—a half-half blend of milk tea and coffee—provides a robust, bittersweet pairing. This is ideal when having savory versions like satay beef toast or ham and cheese.
🧋 Modern Options
- Bubble Tea (Boba) – Offers chewy contrast and comes in flavors that match or complement the toast (e.g. taro, brown sugar).
- Soy Milk – A lighter, dairy-free alternative that doesn’t overpower the dish.
- Iced Americano – Crisp and clean, great for balancing sweeter versions like Nutella or banana toasts.
No matter the flavor variation you choose, the right drink can elevate your Hong Kong toast experience to the next level.
🗺️ Where to Try It Worldwide
While Hong Kong Style French Toast originated in the vibrant diners of Kowloon, its fame has traveled far beyond the city’s skyline. Whether you’re in Asia, North America, or Europe, this crispy, indulgent dish can now be enjoyed in many corners of the world.
🇭🇰 In Hong Kong
For the most authentic experience, head to traditional cha chaan tengs such as:
- Australia Dairy Company (Jordan): Known for fast service and traditional recipes.
- Tsui Wah Restaurant (various locations): Offers a slightly modern take on the classic.
- Kam Wah Café (Mong Kok): Famous for pairing French toast with milk tea and pineapple buns.
🌏 Outside Hong Kong
North America
- New York City: Cafés in Chinatown and Queens often serve Xi Duo Shi alongside bubble tea.
- Toronto & Vancouver: Home to large Hong Kong communities, where authentic cha chaan teng menus are easy to find.
Europe
- London: Areas like Soho and Chinatown feature modern Asian cafés offering French toast with local twists.
- Paris: Fusion brunch spots now include deep-fried versions inspired by Hong Kong’s toast.
Asia-Pacific
- Singapore & Malaysia: Known for kaya toast, many cafés blend that heritage with Hong Kong-style deep-fried variations.
- Sydney & Melbourne: Trendy brunch cafes frequently feature this dish on fusion menus.
No matter where you are, chances are you’ll find a café or restaurant paying homage to this crispy, golden treasure—a global symbol of Hong Kong comfort food.
🍃 Nutritional Info & Health Tips
While undeniably indulgent, this dish can be made lighter:
Nutrition Facts (Traditional Version):
- Calories: ~450–600 per serving
- Sugar: High
- Fat: High (due to deep frying and butter)
Health Tips:
- Use whole wheat bread
- Pan-fry instead of deep-frying
- Substitute condensed milk with Greek yogurt or honey
- Use nut butter without added sugar
🍽️ Modern Twists & Air Fryer Hacks
Modern home chefs and food bloggers have put their own spin on the dish:
- Air fryer versions: Less oil, crisp texture
- Vegan versions: Use plant milk and flax eggs
- Sweet-savory hybrids: With bacon or maple sriracha
- Dessert fusions: Served with matcha cream or taro paste
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Hong Kong Style French Toast
What is Hong Kong Style French Toast made of?
It consists of milk bread, peanut butter or jam, dipped in egg batter, deep-fried, and topped with butter and condensed milk.
How is it different from regular French toast?
Unlike the lightly pan-fried Western French toast, this version is deep-fried and often includes a sweet filling.
What kind of bread is best?
Milk bread (shokupan) or thick white sandwich bread works best for structure and soakability.
Is it always sweet? Can it be savory?
While typically sweet, savory versions with meat floss, ham, or satay beef are growing in popularity.
Can I use an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 6–8 minutes for a healthier take.
What’s the traditional drink pairing?
Hong Kong-style milk tea is the most authentic choice.
🧭 Final Thoughts
Hong Kong Style French Toast is more than just a breakfast dish—it’s a culinary expression of Hong Kong’s unique cultural blend. With its crispy exterior, creamy peanut butter or kaya filling, and indulgent toppings like butter, condensed milk, or syrup, this toast represents the comforting, nostalgic flavors found in every cha chaan teng. Whether served with a cup of Hong Kong-style milk tea or customized with savory fillings like satay beef or ham, this dish continues to evolve while staying rooted in tradition.
Its global popularity is growing as food lovers seek out unique flavor experiences. Whether you’re recreating it at home or tasting it in a bustling café in Kowloon, this deep-fried treat delivers a textural contrast and richness that few other breakfasts can match.
From its colonial roots to modern-day Instagram fame, Hong Kong Style French Toast bridges cultures and generations. It invites you to appreciate not only its flavor but also the story it tells about fusion, resilience, and culinary creativity.
So next time you’re craving something decadent, skip the usual pancakes or waffles and treat yourself to this golden, gooey, and unforgettable Hong Kong classic.
