Crispy Monte Cristo
A crispy, golden Monte Cristo sandwich layered with ham, turkey, Swiss cheese, and a hint of raspberry jam. Dipped in a lightly sweetened French toast batter and pan-fried, this indulgent sandwich is perfect for brunch, quick dinners, or anytime you crave a sweet-and-savory treat.
Equipment
- 1 Large Nonstick Skillet
- 1 shallow bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 cutting board
- 1 spatula
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 6 slices white bread
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- 4 slices thick-sliced deli ham
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 4 slices thick-sliced deli turkey
- 1 tbsp raspberry jam plus extra for serving
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp whole milk
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter divided
- Powdered sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Sandwich Base: Lay out six slices of white bread on a clean, flat surface. On two slices, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard evenly across the top side. Add one slice of Swiss cheese on each mustard-coated bread slice, then layer two slices of ham on top. These layers form the savory base of your Monte Cristo.
- Build the Middle Layers: Take two more slices of bread and spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the top side of each. Carefully place these slices, mayonnaise side up, on top of the ham layer. Next, add two slices of turkey and one slice of Swiss cheese on each sandwich. These middle layers add depth and extra protein, keeping the sandwich hearty and satisfying.
- Add the Sweet Finish: Spread a generous layer of raspberry jam on the remaining two slices of bread. Carefully place these slices, jam side down, on top of each sandwich stack, completing the sweet-and-savory flavor combination that makes the Monte Cristo so irresistible. Press gently to secure all layers together.
- Prepare the French Toast Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together one large egg, two tablespoons of whole milk, and a pinch of salt until smooth and slightly frothy. This batter will give the sandwich its signature golden, crispy exterior. Ensure it is fully mixed so there are no streaks of egg white or clumps of salt.
- Preheat the Skillet: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of unsalted butter and let it melt completely, swirling the pan to coat the bottom evenly. Preheating the skillet ensures the sandwich cooks quickly and develops a crisp, golden crust without becoming soggy.
- Dip the Sandwich in Batter: Hold one sandwich firmly and carefully dip both sides into the prepared egg mixture. Aim to submerge each side for about five seconds, allowing the bread to soak up just enough batter without becoming overly soggy. Gently lift the sandwich, letting any excess batter drip back into the bowl.
- Cook the Sandwich: Place the dipped sandwich in the preheated skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on the first side, pressing down lightly with a spatula to ensure even contact with the skillet and golden browning. Flip the sandwich carefully and cook the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is melted, the bread is crispy, and the sandwich is heated through. Repeat this process with the second sandwich, adding the remaining butter to the skillet before cooking.
- Rest and Garnish: Transfer the cooked sandwiches to a cutting board. Allow them to rest for 1–2 minutes to prevent the cheese from spilling out during slicing. Lightly dust the tops with powdered sugar for a classic Monte Cristo finish, enhancing both visual appeal and the sweet-and-savory flavor.
- Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to cut each sandwich diagonally in half. Serve immediately while warm with extra raspberry jam on the side for dipping. Enjoy this indulgent yet simple sandwich as a perfect brunch treat, satisfying dinner, or special weekend meal.
Notes
- Cheese Options: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can substitute mozzarella, provolone, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor or creamier melt.
- Prevent Soggy Bread: Dip sandwiches quickly in the egg mixture—about five seconds per side—to keep the bread from becoming overly soft.
- Flavor Boosters: For added depth, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the egg batter, giving a subtle French toast aroma.
- Flattening Tips: If your sandwich layers are very tall, press them gently with a heavy pan or plate for 5 minutes before dipping in batter to make cooking easier.
- Serving Warm: Monte Cristo tastes best immediately after cooking. Dust with powdered sugar and serve hot with raspberry jam for the ultimate sweet-and-savory experience.
