Get ready for a sweet twist on breakfast with Cannoli French Toast! This dish combines crispy, golden bread dipped in a creamy filling, just like a cannoli.
It’s like having dessert for breakfast, and who wouldn’t love that? I can’t resist adding extra chocolate chips on top—yum! Just remember, sharing is optional. 😉
Making Cannoli French Toast is a breeze. Just whip up the filling, soak the bread, and cook it until golden. You’ll impress everyone with this yummy treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: For a rich flavor, I recommend using brioche or challah. They hold up well with the filling and become perfectly golden. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try whole grain or gluten-free bread instead!
Cheeses: Ricotta and mascarpone create that classic cannoli taste. If you can’t find mascarpone, cream cheese works as a substitute. Just be prepared for a slight change in flavor and texture.
Sugar: I use granulated sugar in the batter and powdered sugar for dusting. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you can opt for maple syrup or a sugar substitute in the filling and toppings.
Chocolate Chips: Mini chocolate chips add nice bursts of sweetness. Use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer taste or swap for white chocolate for a different twist!
Fruits: Fresh berries are vibrant and delicious. You can also use banana slices or even cherries to mix things up. Fruit compote is an excellent topping if you want something warm.
How Do I Make Sure the French Toast Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the French toast just right can be tricky. Here are some tips to ensure it’s cooked perfectly:
- Heat your skillet on medium—that’s key to the perfect golden crust without burning.
- Spread butter or oil evenly across the pan to prevent sticking.
- Cook each slice for 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a deep golden color as your cue!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each slice space to cook evenly.
- If you’re unsure, slice one open to check that it’s cooked through—no raw egg should be visible.
How to Make Cannoli French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 6 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For the Cannoli Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- 1 tsp orange zest
For Cooking:
- Butter or oil for cooking
- Fresh raspberries or strawberries for garnish
- Sweetened condensed milk for drizzling (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cannoli French Toast takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, for a total of 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy brunch or a special breakfast treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cannoli Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, orange zest, chopped pistachios (if using), and half of the mini chocolate chips. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set this delicious filling aside for later!
2. Prepare the French Toast Batter:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This will be the mixture that soaks into the bread.
3. Stuff the Bread Slices:
Take each slice of thick brioche or challah and carefully cut a pocket into it or make slits on the top without cutting all the way through, creating a grid-like pattern. Stuff a generous amount of the cannoli filling inside each pocket or on top of the slices, pressing lightly to ensure it fills the cuts.
4. Dip in Batter:
Dip each stuffed slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to soak both sides well. However, be careful not to soak them too long to avoid soggy bread!
5. Cook:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat, adding butter or oil to coat the surface. Once hot, place the stuffed bread slices on the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Assemble and Garnish:
Once cooked, transfer the Cannoli French Toast to plates. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and add the remaining mini chocolate chips on top. For a fresh touch, add a few fresh raspberries or strawberries around the plate.
7. Drizzle and Serve:
For an extra treat, drizzle sweetened condensed milk or honey over the French toast before serving. Enjoy your delicious and decadent Cannoli French Toast!
Can I Use Leftover Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Stale bread is actually ideal for French toast as it absorbs the egg mixture better without falling apart. Just make sure it’s not moldy, and you’re good to go!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Alcohol?
This recipe doesn’t include any alcohol, so you’re all set! If you’re looking for a way to enhance the flavor without liquor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the filling for an extra boost!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. You can also pop them in the toaster for a crispy finish!
Can I Freeze Cannoli French Toast?
Yes! After cooking, let the French toast cool completely, then wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook in a skillet or toaster oven until heated through.
