Almond French Toast

INGREDIENTS: 1 cup slivered almonds 3 eggs 1 cup milk 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 12 thick slices French bread 3 tablespoons canola oil 3 tablespoons butter confectioners' sugar for dusting

DIRECTIONS: 1. Place almonds in a small saucepan over low heat. Tossing frequently, toast until lightly browned, 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and set aside. 2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, flour, salt, baking powder, almond extract and vanilla extract. Soak bread slices in the mixture until saturated. Place slices in a shallow pan. Refrigerate slices approximately 1 hour. 3. Heat canola oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. One at a time, press one side of soaked bread slices in the almonds to coat. Fry bread slices on both sides until golden brown. Dust with confectioner's sugar before serving