Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe transforms ordinary French toast into something special. The creamy, melted chocolate center makes every bite decadent, while the brioche provides a tender, custard-like texture. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for impressing guests—or treating yourself on a cozy morning in. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with toppings and fillings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Brioche bread (thick-cut slices)
- Chocolate chips, chocolate spread, or chopped chocolate
- Eggs
- Whole milk or half-and-half
- Vanilla extract
- Ground cinnamon (optional)
- Salt
- Butter (for cooking)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for topping)
- Fresh berries or whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Directions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Slice brioche into thick slices (about 1–1.5 inches). Cut a slit in the side of each slice to form a pocket.
- Fill each pocket with chocolate—about 1 to 2 tablespoons per slice.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a bit of butter.
- Dip each stuffed slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides. Let excess drip off.
- Place on the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with berries, whipped cream, or syrup if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time is 10 minutes, and cook time is 10 minutes, for a total of about 20 minutes.
Variations
- Use Nutella or flavored chocolate spreads: Hazelnut, dark chocolate, or even caramel-filled versions.
- Try other breads: Challah or thick Texas toast can substitute for brioche.
- Add bananas: Place banana slices in the chocolate pocket before cooking.
- Make it boozy: Add a splash of orange liqueur or rum to the custard mixture.
- Savory twist: Skip the chocolate and fill with cream cheese and fruit preserves for a tangy option.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked French toast slices for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a toaster or oven.
- Reheating: Warm in a toaster oven or skillet for best texture. Microwave only if necessary.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the stuffed slices and custard the night before. Cook just before serving for best results.
What kind of chocolate works best?
Chocolate chips, chopped chocolate bars, or spreadable chocolate all melt well and taste great.
Can I use regular sandwich bread?
Yes, but brioche or other thick-cut breads will give the best texture and flavor.
How do I keep the chocolate from leaking?
Don’t overfill the pockets, and make sure to pinch the opening closed slightly before dipping in custard.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely—kids love the chocolatey center and it’s easy to eat by hand.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use non-dairy milk and a dairy-free chocolate alternative. Cook with plant-based butter or oil.
What toppings go best with this?
Fresh berries, whipped cream, maple syrup, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Can I bake instead of pan-fry?
Yes, arrange dipped slices on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Is it too sweet for breakfast?
It’s definitely a sweet breakfast option, best enjoyed as a weekend treat or special occasion dish.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, scale up ingredients as needed. Use a large griddle to cook more slices at once.
Conclusion
Chocolate Stuffed Brioche French Toast is a dreamy, dessert-like breakfast that feels indulgent but comes together easily. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to start your day with a touch of decadence, this recipe delivers every time. With its buttery texture and molten chocolate center, it’s sure to become a favorite.
PrintChocolate Stuffed Brioche French Toast
Chocolate Stuffed Brioche French Toast is a decadent twist on the breakfast classic. Thick slices of brioche are filled with melty chocolate, dipped in custard, and pan-fried to golden perfection for a rich, indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Pan-Fried
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 slices brioche bread (1–1.5 inches thick)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips, spread, or chopped chocolate
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for topping)
- Fresh berries or whipped cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon (if using), and salt.
- Cut a slit into each brioche slice to form a pocket. Fill each with 1–2 tbsp chocolate.
- Heat skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add butter.
- Dip stuffed brioche slices into custard mixture, coating both sides. Let excess drip off.
- Place on skillet and cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and topped with berries, whipped cream, or syrup.
Notes
- Use Nutella or other flavored chocolate spreads for variation.
- Banana slices can be added inside the pocket with chocolate.
- For a boozy twist, add a splash of orange liqueur or rum to the custard.
- Try challah or Texas toast if brioche isn’t available.
- Bake instead of pan-fry at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 145mg