Description
A festive twist on classic French toast, featuring vibrant red velvet bread, rich chocolate flavor, and creamy frosting, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
- For the Red Velvet Bread:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- For the Custard:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or milk alternative)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Butter or oil for cooking
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of flour, cocoa powder, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- Add in the warm water, vegetable oil, red food coloring, vanilla extract, and eggs. Beat until smooth.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Once risen, punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread for 30-35 minutes, or until hollow when tapped. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Slice the red velvet bread into thick pieces. Dip each slice into the custard mix, letting it soak for a few seconds on each side.
- Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a little butter or oil.
- Cook the soaked bread slices in batches, about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Adjust with milk for desired consistency.
- Spread or dollop cream cheese frosting over the French toast or sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, slice the bread thickly to absorb the custard without falling apart. Experiment with spices like nutmeg for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 180 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American