Valentines Breakfast Chocolate French Toast

Name: Valentines Breakfast Chocolate French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 slices of thick bread (preferably brioche or challah); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 2 tablespoons cocoa powder; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Butter for frying; Fresh strawberries, sliced; Maple syrup; Whipped cream (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Ideas

I absolutely love starting Valentine's Day with something indulgent and special like Chocolate French Toast. It’s a delightful twist on a classic breakfast that combines the rich, comforting flavor of chocolate with the softness of fresh bread. This dish is not just for lovers; it’s perfect for anyone wanting to treat themselves or their family. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s cooking is heavenly, and the addition of fresh strawberries drizzled with maple syrup makes it a true feast for the eyes and the taste buds.

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:53:35.218Z

When I first made Chocolate French Toast, I was captivated by how simple yet decadent it turned out. With just a few ingredients—eggs, milk, cocoa powder, and bread—I was able to create something that felt luxurious. I realized that letting the bread soak for just the right amount of time made all the difference in achieving the perfect texture.

One tip I learned is to use a good quality chocolate or cocoa powder. The better the chocolate, the richer the flavor in the end. Topping it off with fresh fruits not only makes it visually appealing but also adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness! Adding whipped cream is optional but highly recommended for an extra touch of indulgence.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate flavor that’s perfect for a romantic breakfast
Easy to prepare and serves a group, making it ideal for special occasions
The combination of creamy and crunchy textures creates a delightful experience

The Secret to Rich Chocolate Flavor

The key to achieving a deep, rich chocolate flavor in your French toast lies in the cocoa powder. Opt for high-quality, unsweetened cocoa to ensure the best results. This ingredient not only enhances the overall flavor but also gives the toast a gorgeous, dark hue. When whisked into the egg mixture, it should dissolve completely, resulting in a luxurious batter that coats the bread evenly.

Don't skimp on soaking time! Allowing the bread to soak for two minutes ensures that each slice is saturated with the chocolate mixture. If the bread feels too dry after soaking, gently press it into the mixture again before cooking. This extra step guarantees a moist interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior once cooked.

Tips for Cooking Perfection

Cooking the French toast over medium heat is essential to avoid burning while ensuring the inside cooks through. Use a non-stick skillet or griddle for even cooking and easy flipping. If you notice any browning happening too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. Each slice should have a golden-brown crust that's both crispy and inviting, taking about 3-4 minutes on each side.

After cooking, let the French toast rest for a minute or two. This helps set the texture and makes for easier serving. Serve it warm; if you need to hold it for a bit, place the cooked slices in a warm oven at 200°F (90°C) while you finish frying the rest.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While fresh strawberries and maple syrup are a delightful pairing for this chocolate French toast, consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness and visual appeal. If you want to elevate it further, try a dollop of whipped cream for a luxurious touch. Alternatively, serve with a side of chocolate or hazelnut spread for those looking to truly indulge.

For a unique twist, feel free to experiment with your bread choice! Challah provides a rich, slightly sweet flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully, while brioche adds an airy texture. You can even use gluten-free bread if needed, adjusting the soak time as firmer gluten-free varieties might not absorb as readily.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate French Toast

4 slices of thick bread (preferably brioche or challah)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Butter for frying

For Serving

Fresh strawberries, sliced
Maple syrup
Whipped cream (optional)

Make sure to gather all ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Prepare the Chocolate Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Soak the Bread

Dip each slice of bread into the mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Let them soak for about 2 minutes each to absorb the flavor.

Cook the French Toast

In a skillet, melt a bit of butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the soaked bread slices and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Serve Warm

Remove from the skillet and serve immediately topped with fresh strawberries, a drizzle of maple syrup, and whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your delicious treat with a hot cup of coffee or tea!

Pro Tips

For an extra chocolatey kick, sprinkle some chocolate chips on the bread while it cooks. You can also use flavored syrup to enhance the sweetness.

Common Troubleshooting

If your French toast turns out soggy, it could be due to oversoaking. Aim for a quick dip rather than a long soak, especially if using a denser bread. Conversely, if the interior is too dry, you may not have soaked it long enough. Adjust your soak times based on the thickness of your bread; thicker slices might need extra time to absorb the mixture.

Another common issue is uneven cooking—if your slices are browning too quickly, check your heat level. Medium heat should give you the perfect balance, while high heat can lead to burnt exteriors and raw centers. Remember, always cook in small batches to ensure even browning.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prep this dish ahead of time, consider assembling the chocolate mixture the night before and storing it in the fridge. Just whisk everything together and let the flavors meld overnight. In the morning, all you need to do is soak and cook the bread, streamlining your breakfast preparation.

Cooked French toast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in a toaster or an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This is a great way to enjoy leftovers without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe easily scales up for larger gatherings. Simply double or triple the ingredients proportionally, but be mindful of your cooking surface. Cooking in batches retains the quality of each slice, so resist the urge to overcrowd your skillet. Instead, you can keep finished French toast warm in a low oven until ready to serve.

If you're cooking for a smaller crowd, you can halve the ingredients without any adjustments needed, especially for the egg and milk mixture. Just be cautious with thinner, less absorbent breads; you may not need to soak them as long, ensuring they don't get too mushy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this French toast ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture and soak the bread the night before; just refrigerate and cook it in the morning.

→ What kind of bread works best for this recipe?

Thick breads like brioche or challah are perfect for this recipe as they soak well and hold their shape.

→ Can I use almond milk or another milk alternative?

Absolutely! Almond milk or oat milk can be used as a substitute for regular milk without sacrificing flavor.

→ Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread to make it accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.