Name: Red Velvet French Toast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces eggs; 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar); 2 tablespoons sugar (or natural granulated sweetener); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 teaspoons red food coloring; 8 slices bread (halved); 8 oz reduced fat cream cheese; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste; 1 handful fresh raspberries

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There’s something incredibly delightful about waking up to the sweet aroma of Red Velvet French Toast filling the air. One Saturday morning, with the sun just peeking through my kitchen window, I decided to elevate our breakfast routine from ordinary to extraordinary. The rich, vibrant color of the red velvet, combined with the creamy filling, turned my simple breakfast into a beautiful feast. As I flipped each slice in the pan, the anticipation built, and I couldn’t wait to share this stunning breakfast with my loved ones. Each bite is a luscious experience that feels like indulgence, perfect for special occasions or simply to treat yourself. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it a regular feature on your breakfast table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
9 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Chef’s Knife

Why We Love This Red Velvet French Toast

It’s a Showstopper

First off, let’s talk about the visual appeal of Red Velvet French Toast. The vibrant red color is sure to impress anyone who sees it. It’s not just a meal; it’s a centerpiece for your table. Whether it’s a romantic breakfast for two or a festive brunch with friends, this dish adds that extra flair that gets everyone excited.

Rich and Decadent Flavor

What makes this dish stand out is its flavor. The combination of rich cream cheese filling and the subtle hints of cocoa and vanilla create a mouthwatering taste explosion. It’s sweet but not overly so, with a luxurious texture that melts in your mouth. Every forkful is a delightful treat that makes your taste buds dance.

Perfect for Celebrations

If you’re looking for a special dish for a holiday or a special occasion, Red Velvet French Toast is it. It’s perfect for Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or even anniversaries. It shows that you’ve put thought and effort into your meal, making it memorable for your loved ones.

Fun to Make Together

Cooking can be a wonderful bonding experience. Making this dish provides a great opportunity to get the family involved. Whether it’s whisking the eggs or layering the cream cheese filling, everyone can pitch in. It’s not just about the final dish; it’s about the laughter and joy that happens in the kitchen while preparing it.

Easy to Customize

Another reason to love Red Velvet French Toast is its versatility. You can easily add your favorite toppings, like fresh raspberries, a drizzle of chocolate, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Each variation adds a personal touch, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.

Comfort Food at Its Best

Finally, this dish represents the ultimate comfort food. On chilly mornings or when you need a little pick-me-up, a warm plate of Red Velvet French Toast is just what you need. It wraps you in warmth and makes you feel good from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Red Velvet French Toast

When it comes to creating the perfect Red Velvet French Toast, the ingredients play a crucial role. Each component contributes to the rich flavor and luxurious texture of this dish. The key players here are the eggs, buttermilk, and cream cheese, which together create a delightful balance of flavors. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

4 eggs – The base of the egg wash, providing structure and richness.
1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar) – Adds a tangy flavor and helps tenderize the bread.
2 tablespoons sugar (or natural granulated sweetener) – Sweetens the batter for the toast.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic profile.
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder – Provides the classic chocolatey flavor associated with red velvet.
2 teaspoons red food coloring – Gives that iconic red velvet color.
8 slices bread (halved) – The foundation of the French toast, soak them well in the egg wash.
8 oz reduced fat cream cheese – The creamy filling that makes this dish indulgent.
2 tablespoons sugar – Adds sweetness to the filling.
1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste – Provides a deeper vanilla flavor for the filling.
1 handful fresh raspberries – A fresh and tangy topping to brighten the dish.

How to Make Red Velvet French Toast

Making Red Velvet French Toast is a delightful process that combines simple steps with delicious outcomes. Follow along as I guide you through the creation of this gorgeous breakfast meal. You’ll love the transformation of ordinary ingredients into mouthwatering perfection.

Start by whisking together the eggs, buttermilk, sugar, vanilla, red food coloring, and cocoa powder in a shallow bowl. You want the mixture to be smooth and free of lumps. For an even faster approach, you can use a blender to combine the ingredients, then transfer the egg wash to a large shallow bowl.
Next, take your halved bread slices and dip them into the egg wash. Make sure to press them lightly to soak through completely, flipping each slice to ensure even coating. This is where the magic begins as the bread absorbs all that rich flavor.
Heat a large nonstick pan or skillet over low-medium heat. It’s essential to keep the heat at the right level to cook the French toast evenly without burning. Fry the bread in batches of three or four, turning them once until they are just cooked through and golden on both sides. Remove them from the pan and place them onto a warmed plate, keeping them toasty.
While the French toast is cooking, let’s prepare the heavenly cheesecake filling. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla bean paste. Whip the ingredients together until light and fluffy. The filling should be smooth and creamy, perfect for spreading.
Once your French toast has cooled slightly, take one half and spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the cheesecake filling onto it. Spread it out evenly to cover the surface, and then top it with another half to create a delicious sandwich.
For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate over the tops of the French toast sandwiches. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream on top if you desire, followed by a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Finally, serve the Red Velvet French Toast with a handful of fresh raspberries on the side. The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the dish beautifully, adding an inviting freshness to every bite.

Things Worth Knowing

Soaking Time: For the best results, allow the bread to soak in the egg wash for a few seconds on each side. This ensures every slice is flavorful and soft.
Temperature Control: It’s crucial to keep the heat low-medium while cooking to prevent burning and to allow the French toast to cook evenly throughout.
Variations: Get creative! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the egg wash for added warmth or different toppings such as nuts or chocolate chips.
Filling Options: Consider experimenting with different fillings, like strawberry cream cheese or Nutella, for a delightful twist.
Presentation: Serve the Red Velvet French Toast on a beautiful plate, garnished with berries and a sprig of mint for a professional touch.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some great ways to adapt the Red Velvet French Toast recipe. Each variation opens up a new experience to savor!

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze individual slices of French toast. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw and reheat as needed.
Pairing: Serve with a side of crispy hash browns or fresh fruit to balance the richness of the dish.
Sweetness Level: Adjust the level of sugar in both the egg wash and filling based on your preference for sweetness.
Substitutions: If you’re out of buttermilk, regular milk works fine, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Red Velvet French Toast

Enjoying your Red Velvet French Toast can be elevated with the right pairings. Here are some ideas to complement this delicious dish:

Fruit Compote: A warm berry compote can add a burst of fruitiness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the French toast.
Savory Sides: Consider serving with crispy hash browns or a simple avocado salad to contrast the sweetness.
Brunch Occasion: This dish is perfect for a leisurely brunch with friends or family. Pair it with mimosas or fresh juice for a festive touch.
Holiday Treat: Ideal for special occasions like Valentine’s Day or birthdays, this dish makes for a memorable meal that will impress your guests.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in the fridge and enjoy them the next day; they reheat beautifully!

FAQ

Yes, you can use regular milk instead of buttermilk. However, to mimic the tangy flavor of buttermilk, you can add one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to the milk. Let it sit for about five minutes to sour before using it in your Red Velvet French Toast recipe. This will help achieve a similar taste and texture in the final dish.

To store leftovers of your Red Velvet French Toast, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them, you can reheat the slices in a toaster or on a skillet. This method helps maintain the toast’s texture and flavor, ensuring it tastes almost as good as fresh!

Definitely! Red Velvet French Toast is incredibly versatile when it comes to toppings. You can add fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. A drizzle of chocolate syrup or a sprinkle of nuts can also enhance the flavor. Feel free to get creative with your toppings to make each serving unique!

Absolutely! This Red Velvet French Toast makes for a stunning dish that’s perfect for special occasions like Valentine’s Day, birthdays, or brunch gatherings. Its striking color and delicious flavor will impress your guests and make your meal feel truly special. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate with something memorable!

Conclusion

This Red Velvet French Toast is a true masterpiece that combines flavor and visual appeal. It’s a dish that brings warmth to your mornings and creates lasting memories with every bite. I encourage you to try making this delightful breakfast treat and share it with loved ones. You’ll find that its rich, creamy layers and vibrant color can transform any ordinary day into a special occasion.