This Stuffed Hot Chocolate French Toast is the ultimate breakfast treat! Thick bread is filled with sweet chocolate and marshmallows, then cooked to golden perfection.
Who wouldn’t want a cozy, chocolatey morning? It’s like having dessert for breakfast, and honestly, I can’t resist a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. 😄
I love making this on special mornings. Just whip up the filling, dip the stuffed bread, and cook it up—easy and oh-so-fun! Perfect with a cup of coffee or milk!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick bread like brioche or challah works best for its soft texture that holds fillings well. If you don’t have either, try using Texas toast or even a sturdy whole grain bread.
Dairy-free Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: This spread gives the chocolatey flavor and creaminess. Almond butter or peanut butter with cocoa powder can work in a pinch for those with nut allergies.
Almond Milk: This is my go-to non-dairy milk, but oat milk, coconut milk, or soy milk are also great alternatives. Choose your favorite for the best taste!
Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds deep chocolate flavor. For a sweeter option, try Dutch-processed cocoa, but reduce the added sugar in the recipe.
Whipped Cream: Dairy-free whipped cream adds a nice touch. You can make your own with coconut cream or substitute it with a scoop of your favorite ice cream if you’re looking for a treat!
How Do You Get the Perfect Golden Brown French Toast?
Getting that beautiful golden brown on your French toast is all about the right heat and timing. Here’s how to ensure success:
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat. If it’s too hot, the outside may burn before the inside cooks.
- After dipping the sandwiches in the cocoa batter, let any excess drip off before placing them in the pan.
- Cook for 3-4 minutes, then check for a golden color before flipping. Adjust the heat if necessary to avoid burning.
How to Make Stuffed Hot Chocolate French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The French Toast:
- 8 slices of thick bread (like brioche or challah)
- 1 cup dairy-free chocolate hazelnut spread (or other dairy-free chocolate spread)
For The Batter:
- 1 cup almond milk (or any preferred dairy-free milk)
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For Topping:
- 1/4 cup dairy-free whipped cream
- Chocolate syrup (for drizzling)
- Fresh strawberries (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10-15 minutes to cook, making a total of about 25-30 minutes. It’s a quick and delightful breakfast or treat that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by spreading a generous layer of dairy-free chocolate hazelnut spread on four slices of the thick bread. Place another slice of bread on top of each to create delicious sandwiches. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.
2. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the almond milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, maple syrup, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Using a whisk, mix everything together thoroughly until it’s smooth and well combined.
3. Dip the Sandwiches:
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little oil or use cooking spray to prevent sticking. Take each filled sandwich and dip it into the cocoa batter, making sure both sides get a nice coat. This step is key for that delicious chocolatey flavor!
4. Cook the French Toast:
Carefully place the dipped sandwiches onto the heated skillet. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Look for that perfect crispiness!
5. Serve:
Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and place them on a plate. Top with a dollop of dairy-free whipped cream, drizzle with chocolate syrup, and garnish with fresh strawberries to make it look pretty.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your stuffed hot chocolate French toast warm and dig in! Enjoy this decadent treat to start your day or as a sweet snack.
Can I Use Regular Milk Instead of Dairy-Free Milk?
Absolutely! You can substitute almond milk with any regular milk or cream if you’re not needing a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that this might change the flavor slightly, depending on the milk you choose.
What Bread Works Best for Stuffed French Toast?
Thick, fluffy bread works best for this recipe! Brioche or challah is ideal because they soak up the batter well while maintaining their structure. If those aren’t available, you can also use sourdough or even a hearty whole-grain bread.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This helps restore some of their original crunch!
Can I Freeze Stuffed French Toast?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked stuffed French toast! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or oven directly from the freezer.
