Introduction

Red Velvet French Toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, combining the rich flavors of cocoa and a hint of vanilla with the vibrant red color that makes it visually stunning. Topped with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese spread and drizzled with maple syrup, this dish is perfect for a special weekend brunch or holiday morning treat.

Red Velvet French Toast with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

4 slices brioche or challah bread
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tbsp red gel food coloring
2 tbsp maple syrup (plus extra for drizzling)
4 oz softened cream cheese
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk (for consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until smooth.
Step 2: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture until fully coated, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
Step 3: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Cook soaked bread slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 4: For the cream cheese topping, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk until creamy.
Step 5: Serve by stacking red velvet slices on a plate, dolloping with cream cheese topping, and drizzling with maple syrup.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old brioche or challah for better soaking without falling apart.
For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the egg mixture for more depth of flavor.
Top with fresh berries for a bright, fresh contrast.

Storage

Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or toaster oven to keep the exterior crisp. The cream cheese topping is best prepared fresh but can be refrigerated separately for up to 2 days as well.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, brioche or challah is ideal for texture and flavor, but you can use thick slices of white or whole wheat bread. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to soak the egg mixture without falling apart.

Is the red food coloring necessary?

The red food coloring gives this French toast its signature vibrant red color, but it can be omitted if you prefer. The flavor will remain delicious, though less visually striking.

Red Velvet French Toast with Cream Cheese Topping Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 97 reviews

This Red Velvet French Toast recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Featuring slices of brioche or challah bread dipped in a rich mixture of eggs, cocoa powder, and vibrant red food coloring, then pan-fried to a golden brown. Topped with a creamy sweetened cream cheese mixture and drizzled with maple syrup, this festive dish is perfect for special mornings or indulgent brunches.

Author: Elias
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Breakfast
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Bread and Coating

4 slices brioche or challah bread
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 tbsp red gel food coloring
2 tbsp maple syrup (plus extra for drizzling)

Cream Cheese Topping

4 oz softened cream cheese
1/4 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk (for consistency)

Instructions

Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring until the mixture is smooth and evenly colored.
Soak the bread: Dip each slice of brioche or challah bread into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated but not soggy. Let any excess liquid drip off before cooking.
Cook the French toast: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt butter. Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet and cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until both sides are golden brown and slightly crispy.
Make the cream cheese topping: While the bread cooks, beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk until the mixture is creamy and smooth, adjusting the milk amount to achieve desired spreading consistency.
Serve: Stack the cooked red velvet French toast slices on plates, dollop with the cream cheese topping, and drizzle generously with maple syrup. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.

Notes

Use thick slices of brioche or challah bread for the best texture and to prevent sogginess.
Red gel food coloring provides vibrant color without thinning the batter; adjust quantity for color intensity.
Maple syrup can be substituted with honey or fruit compote for varied sweetness.
Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature to blend easily with powdered sugar and milk.
Cooking time may vary slightly depending on skillet heat and bread thickness.

Keywords: Red Velvet French Toast, Breakfast, Brioche French Toast, Cream Cheese Topping, Maple Syrup, Holiday Breakfast