This Chocolate Brioche French Toast is a breakfast treat that feels like dessert! Soft, buttery brioche soaked in a rich chocolate mixture makes waking up a whole lot sweeter.
You might want to keep this recipe a secret—it’s so good, you won’t want to share! I love serving it with fresh berries and a drizzle of syrup for the perfect morning feast.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brioche Bread: This soft, buttery bread makes for the best French toast. If you can’t find brioche, challah works wonderfully too. It’s a bit denser but still delicious and gives a similar texture.
Eggs: Large eggs are essential for binding and creating a rich custard. If you’re looking for an egg-free option, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
Milk & Cream: Whole milk or 2% milk adds creaminess, while heavy cream makes it extra rich. You can use almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version; just choose unsweetened types for best results.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or milk chocolate brings sweetness. Feel free to swap these with dark chocolate or even a nut butter if you’re looking for something different. I love using dark chocolate for a richer flavor!
Fresh Raspberries: These give a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness. If raspberries aren’t available, strawberries or blueberries can work just as well. They add a nice pop of color too!
How Do I Properly Soak the Brioche for Perfect French Toast?
Getting the right soak on your brioche is key to fluffy, flavorful French toast. You want it to soak enough for rich flavor while still holding its shape! Here’s how you can master this step:
- Make sure your egg mixture is well whisked for even distribution.
- Dip each slice for just a few seconds on each side. Too long, and they can get soggy!
- After soaking, let the excess mixture drip off before placing them in the skillet.
This small wait ensures a crisp outer layer while keeping the inside nicely custardy. Enjoy cooking your French toast! Remember, practice makes perfect!
How to Make Chocolate Brioche French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf brioche bread (about 10 slices)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- Butter (for cooking)
For Garnish:
- Fresh raspberries
- Whipped cream
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chocolate Brioche French Toast recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20-30 minutes to cook, making a total of around 35-45 minutes. Perfect for a leisurely weekend breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Make sure everything is well combined and smooth—this is what will make your French toast rich and delicious!
2. Preheat Your Skillet:
Put a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium heat. Add a tablespoon of butter and let it melt until it coats the surface of the pan. This will help prevent sticking and add flavor to the toast.
3. Soak the Brioche Bread:
Take a slice of the brioche bread and dip it into the egg mixture. Let the bread soak for just a few seconds on each side—don’t let it get too soggy! Carefully lift it out and let any excess mixture drip off. Then set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the First Slice:
Place the soaked brioche slice in the hot skillet. As it cooks, sprinkle about a tablespoon of chocolate chips on top. This will melt and create a chocolatey goodness when you flip it!
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Cook the first side for about 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown. Gently flip the slice over and cook the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. Add more chocolate chips on this side if you like it extra chocolatey!
6. Repeat with Remaining Slices:
Continue dipping and cooking the rest of the brioche slices, adding butter to the pan as needed. You can cook several slices at once if your skillet is big enough!
7. Stack and Garnish:
Once all your French toast slices are cooked, stack them on a plate. Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream, a handful of fresh raspberries, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Feel free to add extra chocolate chips on top for good measure!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Chocolate Brioche French Toast immediately while it’s warm. Enjoy this indulgent treat with family or friends—it’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche is perfect for its softness and flavor, you can also use challah, thick sliced white bread, or even French baguette. Just keep in mind that different breads may soak up the egg mixture differently, so adjust the soaking time accordingly to avoid sogginess.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a thinner consistency, or use whole milk combined with a tablespoon of melted butter for a creamy effect. Just note that this may slightly change the texture and richness of the final dish.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they may become a bit soggy.
Can I Make This French Toast Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good whisk before using. However, it’s best to soak and cook the bread slices right before serving for optimal texture and flavor!
