Description
A classic Monte Cristo sandwich featuring layers of ham, turkey, and Swiss cheese, dipped in a cinnamon-vanilla egg batter, then pan-fried to golden perfection. This sweet and savory sandwich is dusted with powdered sugar and served with maple syrup or raspberry jam for dipping, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures perfect for brunch or a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Meat
- 8 slices hearty white bread
- 8 slices deli ham
- 8 slices deli turkey
Cheese
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
Spreads and Flavorings
- 1/4 cup raspberry jam
Egg Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cooking and Serving
- Butter for greasing the pan
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup or additional raspberry jam for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined to create the batter for dipping.
- Arrange the bread: Lay out the slices of bread on a clean surface, ready for assembly.
- Spread the jam: Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam on one side of each bread slice, adding a hint of sweetness to the sandwich.
- Assemble the sandwiches: On four bread slices with jam, layer 2 slices of ham, 2 slices of turkey, and 2 slices of Swiss cheese each.
- Complete the sandwiches: Top each sandwich with another bread slice, jam side down, ensuring all ingredients are neatly enclosed.
- Heat the cooking surface: Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
- Dip sandwiches into egg mixture: Dip each sandwich into the prepared egg mixture, coating both sides evenly and allowing any excess to drip off for perfect coverage.
- Cook the sandwiches: Place the dipped sandwiches carefully onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
- Brown and melt: Cook each side for 3-4 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside has melted thoroughly.
- Remove and rest: Take the sandwiches off the heat and let them cool slightly to set before serving.
- Optional sweet dusting: Dust the sandwiches with powdered sugar to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup or additional raspberry jam for dipping as desired, enjoying the perfect sweet-savory bite.
Notes
- Use hearty white bread to ensure the sandwich holds together well during dipping and cooking.
- Adjust cooking time slightly if sandwich size varies to ensure cheese is fully melted.
- Powdered sugar and syrup add a classic touch but can be omitted for a less sweet version.
- Feel free to substitute turkey or ham with other deli meats to suit your preference.
- For crispier sandwiches, cook in a well-greased pan and avoid overcrowding.
