Name: Ricotta-Stuffed French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 8 slices of thick bread (preferably challah or brioche); 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of French toast, you’ll absolutely love this version with a rich and creamy ricotta filling. It’s the perfect balance of crispy, soft, and creamy textures with every bite. The sweetness of the filling combined with the warm, buttery toast creates an irresistible breakfast experience. It’s simple to make but feels like a special treat, making it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or a luxurious morning start.

Ingredients

8 slices of thick bread (preferably challah or brioche)
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
Maple syrup (for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and salt.
Spread the ricotta mixture generously on four slices of bread, then top with the remaining slices to create sandwiches.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter in it.
Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated, and fry them in the skillet until golden brown and crisp, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Add more butter to the skillet as needed, and continue to cook the remaining sandwiches.
Serve warm with maple syrup on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is around 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15-20 minutes.

Variations

Fruit-filled French Toast: Add fresh berries or sliced bananas to the ricotta filling for a burst of fruity flavor.
Chocolate Ricotta French Toast: Stir in some cocoa powder or mini chocolate chips into the ricotta mixture for a chocolatey twist.
Nutty Ricotta: Add chopped nuts like toasted almonds or hazelnuts to the ricotta for added crunch and texture.
Savory Twist: For a savory version, omit the sugar and vanilla, and use herbs like thyme or rosemary with the ricotta.

Storage/Reheating

To store leftover ricotta-stuffed French toast, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply toast in a skillet over low heat until warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Yes! You can use any bread you like, but thick, soft breads like challah or brioche work best as they hold up well when stuffed and dipped in the egg mixture.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ricotta filling and sandwich the bread in advance. Store the assembled sandwiches in the refrigerator and then cook them in the morning.

3. What can I use if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can substitute ricotta with mascarpone cheese for a slightly richer filling or cream cheese for a tangy flavor.

4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can use dairy-free bread and a dairy-free ricotta or cream cheese alternative. Also, substitute the butter for a dairy-free version or oil.

5. Can I freeze leftover French toast?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked French toast. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat it in the toaster or oven when ready to enjoy.

6. Can I add spices to the ricotta filling?

Absolutely! You can add a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to the ricotta for a more complex flavor profile.

7. How do I prevent the French toast from getting soggy?

Make sure you don’t soak the bread in the egg mixture for too long. Just a quick dip on both sides is enough. Also, use thick bread that can hold up well without becoming too soggy.

8. Can I use whipped ricotta for this recipe?

Yes, whipped ricotta will give a lighter texture to the filling, which could be a nice variation depending on your preference.

9. How do I know when the French toast is cooked through?

The French toast should be golden and crispy on the outside with a warm, creamy interior. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check if it’s heated all the way through.

10. Can I serve this with other toppings?

Yes! Feel free to serve it with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a drizzle of honey in addition to maple syrup.

Conclusion

Ricotta-stuffed French toast is a delightful variation on the classic breakfast dish, bringing a rich, creamy twist to your morning routine. Whether you stick with the traditional filling or try some fun variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Its sweet, comforting flavor makes it perfect for a special occasion or a treat any day of the week!

Ricotta-Stuffed French Toast

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Ricotta-stuffed French toast is a decadent breakfast or brunch treat featuring a creamy ricotta filling sandwiched between slices of golden, buttery bread. This indulgent twist on a classic is perfect for weekend mornings or special occasions.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 20min
Total Time: 30min
Yield: 4servings
Category: Breakfast
Method: Skillet, Pan-Fried
Cuisine: Italian-American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and salt.
Spread ricotta mixture on four slices of bread. Top with remaining slices to form sandwiches.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.
Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, coating both sides well.
Fry each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp.
Add more butter as needed for remaining sandwiches.
Serve warm with maple syrup.

Notes

Add fresh berries or banana slices to the filling for a fruity variation.
Use mascarpone or cream cheese if ricotta isn’t available.
For a dairy-free version, substitute dairy-free cheese and butter.
Don’t soak bread too long in the egg mix to avoid sogginess.

Can be made ahead and cooked in the morning.