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Red Velvet French Toast

Red Velvet French Toast

This Red Velvet French Toast recipe combines the rich, velvety flavors of classic red velvet cake with the warm comfort of French toast, offering a tender, fluffy, and indulgent breakfast or brunch treat. Featuring a unique blend of cocoa, vanilla, and cream cheese notes, it delivers a beautifully colored and deeply satisfying dish that’s simple to prepare and customizable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 thick slices of day-old brioche or challah bread
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk or cream
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons red gel food coloring
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • Butter or oil for cooking (about 2 tablespoons)

Optional Ingredients

  • Cream cheese spread or filling (about 1/4 cup, sweetened if desired)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting
  • Maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or toasted nuts for serving
  • Mini chocolate chips (optional, about 2 tablespoons)
  • Additional spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice (optional, 1/4 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the custard mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or cream, cocoa powder, red gel food coloring, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. This rich custard mixture transforms ordinary bread into Red Velvet French Toast.
  2. Soak the bread slices: Dip thick slices of day-old brioche or challah bread into the custard mixture, allowing them to soak just long enough to absorb the liquid without becoming soggy. Flip to coat both sides evenly, then place the soaked slices on a plate.
  3. Cook the French toast: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter or oil. Place the soaked bread slices on the hot surface and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side until the exterior turns golden and crispy while maintaining a tender, cake-like interior.
  4. Optional filling or topping: For stuffed French toast, spread sweetened cream cheese between two soaked slices to make a sandwich, then cook gently until the cheese is warm and slightly melty. Alternatively, top cooked slices with powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries, or whipped cream to enhance flavor.

Notes

  • Use day-old, thick-cut brioche or challah bread to ensure the custard is absorbed perfectly without falling apart.
  • Gel-based red food coloring provides vibrant color without affecting custard texture.
  • Do not over-soak the bread to prevent sogginess and difficulty flipping.
  • Cook on medium heat to achieve a crispy exterior while the inside cooks gently.
  • If preparing multiple batches, keep cooked French toast warm in an oven set to around 200°F.

Nutrition

Keywords: Red Velvet French Toast, Breakfast, Brunch, French Toast, Red Velvet, Vegan option, Gluten Free option