There’s nothing quite like a brunch that feels luxurious yet is shockingly simple to make, and let me tell you, this Red Velvet French Toast is my new favorite breakfast indulgence! Anytime I whip this up, I’m instantly transported to cozy mornings where I can cottage in my pajamas and relax with a plate of pure joy. Plus, the beautiful red color and sweet cream cheese icing make it an absolute showstopper! Seriously, who wouldn’t want to start their day with a bit of pastry artistry?
I first stumbled across this recipe while hunting for something to impress a friend who absolutely adores red velvet cake. I thought, why not bring that delightful flavor into a delightful breakfast? The moment my first slice hit the skillet, I realized I was onto something special. The rich, chocolaty flavor paired with the fluffy texture is just heavenly, and the icing? Well, it’s the icing on the cake—pun definitely intended!
What’s in Red Velvet French Toast?
Let’s break down this mouthwatering concoction:
Bread: The star of the show! I recommend thick slices of brioche or challah, as they soak up the custard beautifully and create that pillowy texture we all love.
Eggs: A crucial ingredient, eggs provide the necessary structure and richness to make this toast feel extra special.
Milk: Whole milk is preferred for creaminess, but you can use low-fat or even a plant-based alternative if that’s more your style.
Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the flavor and gives a comforting depth to the dish.
Cocoa Powder: This is where the chocolatey goodness comes in! Make sure to use unsweetened cocoa powder; it’s what gives the toast its lovely, rich chocolatiness.
Red Food Coloring: This is the fun part! A few drops transform your French toast into a vibrant red masterpiece.
Cream Cheese Icing: You can’t have Red Velvet anything without cream cheese icing! A sweet drizzle brings this dish to life.
Fresh Raspberries: These berries add a pop of natural sweetness and color—plus, they give a fresh twist that brightens up every bite.
Powdered Sugar: Just a light dusting adds a touch of sweetness and makes it look fancy!
Is Red Velvet French Toast Good for You?
While this Red Velvet French Toast is a treat to your taste buds, it’s worth noting it’s more of an indulgent dish—perfect for special breakfasts or holidays. Here’s a quick rundown:
Bread: If you opt for whole-grain bread, you’ll add some fiber, though traditional brioche is definitely delightful.
Eggs: A wonderful source of protein and healthy fats, eggs help keep you fuller for longer.
Milk: Provides calcium and essential nutrients, especially if you go with whole milk.
Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants, unsweetened cocoa can be a healthy addition in moderation.
Red Food Coloring: Generally considered safe, it’s more about aesthetic fun, but if you prefer to skip it, you can!
Overall, while not exactly low-calorie, indulging in this delightful dish occasionally isn’t too bad. Just enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share with a loved one!
Ingredients
– 4 slices of brioche or challah bread
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk (or your favorite non-dairy alternative)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon red food coloring (adjust to desired color)
– Cream cheese icing for drizzling (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh raspberries for garnish
– Powdered sugar for dusting
This recipe makes about 2 servings, perfect for a cozy brunch for two (or just me on a really good day!)
How to Make Red Velvet French Toast?
1. **Prepare the Custard Mixture:** In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and red food coloring until well combined. You want it to be a lovely, inviting shade of red.
2. **Soak the Bread:** Dip each slice of the bread into the custard mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds on each side. You want the slices to fully absorb that gorgeous mix, but be careful not to let them get too soggy.
3. **Heat the Skillet:** Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. You might want to add a little butter or cooking spray for non-stick purposes.
4. **Cook the Toast:** Place the soaked bread onto the skillet and cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Watch for that perfect sizzling sound—music to my ears!
5. **Plate & Drizzle:** Once cooked, carefully transfer the toast to plates. Drizzle a generous amount of cream cheese icing over the top, and scatter fresh raspberries around for a vibrant touch.
6. **Dust with Powdered Sugar:** For that finishing touch, add a light dusting of powdered sugar and watch the magic happen!
7. **Serve & Enjoy!** Dig in while it’s warm, and enjoy this deliciously decadent breakfast!
Serving Suggestions & Tips for Extra Awesomeness!
If you want to switch things up, here are some fun ideas:
– **Add Nuts:** Chopped pecans or walnuts can bring a delightful crunch if you sprinkle them on top.
– **Alternate Icing:** Swap cream cheese icing for chocolate syrup or even maple syrup for different flavor profiles.
– **Get Fruity:** Sliced bananas or strawberries also make lovely additions alongside or atop this French toast.
This Red Velvet French Toast brings breakfast to a whole new level of deliciousness! It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or just a little pick-me-up during the week. I can’t wait for you to try it—don’t forget to share your delicious success with me! Enjoy this sweet twist on a classic and happy cooking!
