Chocolate Raspberry French Toast

Name: Chocolate Raspberry French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large eggs; 1 cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 8 slices of brioche bread; 1 cup fresh raspberries; 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped or chips; Powdered sugar for dusting; Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Home-Style Dessert Bakes

I absolutely love starting my mornings with something special, and this Chocolate Raspberry French Toast is my go-to recipe for a delightful breakfast. The combination of rich chocolate and tart raspberries creates a sweet indulgence that feels like a treat. I enjoy taking my time to prepare this dish, allowing the brioche to soak up the luscious batter perfectly. It’s great for gatherings or quiet weekends, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s cooking makes it all the more irresistible.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-16T14:28:30.325Z

When I first made this Chocolate Raspberry French Toast, I was surprised by how simple it was to whip up such a decadent dish. I love how the chocolate pairs beautifully with the fresh raspberries, creating a burst of flavor in every bite. I recommend using high-quality chocolate to elevate the dish further—it truly makes a difference!

One of my favorite tips is to allow the bread to soak in the mixture for a few minutes longer for a creamier texture. Grating some chocolate on top before serving takes it to the next level and turns the breakfast into an elegant dessert experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate flavor wonderfully balanced with fresh raspberries
Gourmet presentation that impresses at any brunch gathering
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings

      

Mastering the Soaking Technique

The soaking process is crucial for creating the best texture in your French toast. Aiming for a soak time of 2-3 minutes allows the brioche to absorb the egg mixture without becoming overly soggy. If you notice your bread is still a bit dry after the initial soak, feel free to repeat the process for up to another minute, ensuring you flip it to coat both sides evenly. The goal is to achieve a balance where the bread is thoroughly saturated but not falling apart.

Using brioche makes all the difference. Its slightly sweet, buttery quality pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate and tart raspberries. If brioche isn’t available, challah or a thick slice of whole grain bread can be excellent substitutes. However, note that these alternatives may slightly alter the flavor profile, so adjust additional sweeteners if needed to maintain balance.

Creating the Perfect Topping

Heat management is essential when melting the chocolate and raspberries together. Use a saucepan on low heat to avoid scalding the chocolate, which can cause it to seize or become grainy. Stir constantly until the mixture is glossy and fully combined, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This careful melting not only enhances the flavor but also preserves the freshness of the raspberries, keeping them intact and vibrant in color.

Should you wish to tweak the topping, consider adding a splash of raspberry or cherry liqueur to the chocolate mixture for an adult flair. Alternatively, a hint of vanilla can enrich the flavor. Just remember, if you substitute fresh raspberries with frozen, reduce the heat and cooking time slightly to avoid excessive moisture that can dilute the chocolate.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

For optimal enjoyment, serve your Chocolate Raspberry French Toast immediately after preparation. The contrast of warm toast with the melted chocolate topping creates an indulgent dish that pleases both the eye and the palate. Consider pairing this breakfast with freshly brewed coffee or a chilled glass of orange juice for a well-rounded brunch experience. Adding a sprinkle of coarse sea salt over the chocolate raspberry topping can also enhance the flavors wonderfully.

If you have leftovers, store the French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, a quick flash in the toaster or oven will help revive the crispness. The toppings can also be prepared ahead; simply warm the chocolate-raspberry mixture on low heat before serving it over the reheated French toast.

Ingredients

French Toast Base

4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
8 slices of brioche bread

Chocolate Raspberry Topping

1 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped or chips
Powdered sugar for dusting
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth. Set aside.

Soak the Bread

Take each slice of brioche and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are well-coated. Allow the bread to soak for about 2-3 minutes for a richer flavor.

Cook the French Toast

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a little butter. Once melted, add the soaked brioche slices to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Prepare the Topping

While the toast is cooking, gently heat the raspberries and chopped chocolate in a small saucepan on low heat until the chocolate is melted and combined. Stir gently to coat the raspberries.

Serve

Place the cooked French toast on plates, spoon the chocolate raspberry mixture over the top, and dust with powdered sugar. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Pro Tips

Serve immediately for the best texture. You can use frozen raspberries if fresh ones aren't available. Feel free to substitute the chocolate with white chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Ingredient Insights

The quality of your chocolate can significantly influence the overall taste of this dish. A dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content not only adds depth but also balances the sweetness of the raspberries. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a dairy-free chocolate or even a high-quality cacao powder, melting it into a smooth sauce with coconut milk instead of traditional chocolate.

Using fresh raspberries is ideal due to their bright flavor and texture. However, if they're out of season, consider using high-quality frozen raspberries. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid after defrosting to prevent the chocolate sauce from becoming too watery. You might also explore other berries like strawberries or blueberries for a different twist.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your French toast is burning before it cooks through, try reducing the heat to medium-low. Each stove varies, so it can take a little time to figure out the best setting. Be sure to keep an eye on it as you cook, looking for golden brown edges as your visual cue for doneness. If your first batch doesn’t turn out perfectly, adjust accordingly with the next batch, tweaking heat levels as needed.

Another common issue could be a lack of flavor in your batter. If you find the egg mixture too bland, consider adding a touch more vanilla extract or an extra pinch of cinnamon. Some people also like to incorporate a splash of orange zest into the batter for a bright, citrusy note that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any bread you prefer, such as challah or sourdough, but brioche offers a richer flavor.

→ What can I use instead of milk?

You can substitute almond milk or any other non-dairy milk if you prefer a dairy-free option.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

You can prepare the egg mixture in advance and store it in the fridge overnight. Just soak the bread right before cooking.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover French toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat gently in a skillet.