Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a brunch dish that’s both indulgent and memorable, then this Decadent Cannoli Stuffed French Toast is just what you need. Picture this: crispy, golden French toast oozing with a creamy, sweet cannoli filling, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for special occasions, lazy weekends, or when you just want to treat yourself. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It combines the best of both worlds: the classic taste of French toast with the irresistible creaminess of cannoli.
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet dessert treat!
- Easy to customize with your favorite flavors and toppings.
- Impress your guests with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet but is simple to make.
- Rich in flavor without being overly sweet.
Ingredients
- 8 slices of thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- Butter for frying
- Pinch of salt
Directions
Prepare the Cannoli Filling
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/3 cup powdered sugar, and mini chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and set aside.
Make the French Toast Batter
In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Stuff and Cook the French Toast
Spread a generous amount of cannoli filling on one slice of bread and top with another slice to create a sandwich. Repeat with remaining bread slices. Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
Fry to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter. Cook each sandwich for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
For best results, use day-old bread to absorb the batter better. Check out this article for more tips on making perfect French toast. Adjust the sweetness of the filling by altering the sugar amount to your preference.
Variations
- Berry Bliss: Add fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries to the filling for a fruity twist.
- Nuts & Spice: Sprinkle crushed pecans and a dash of nutmeg for a nutty flavor.
- Tropical Delight: Use coconut flakes and pineapple bits in the filling for a tropical touch.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warm to maintain crispiness.
Suggested Pairings
Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad and a steaming cup of coffee for a balanced meal. For a decadent dessert, pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pro Tips
- Ensure your skillet is preheated well to get that perfect golden crust. Learn more about using nonstick pans effectively.
- Don’t press down on the French toast while cooking; this keeps the filling intact and creamy.
- For an extra touch, grate some orange zest on top for a citrusy aroma.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling? Yes, mascarpone cheese is a wonderful alternative to ricotta.
- Is it okay to use regular sliced bread? While possible, thicker bread like brioche provides better results.
- How can I make this dish healthier? Substitute whole milk with almond milk and reduce the amount of chocolate chips.