Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast Delightful Breakfast Dish

Are you ready to treat yourself to a delicious breakfast? Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast is a simple dish that brings joy to any morning. With creamy chocolate hazelnut spread and crispy, buttery bread, this recipe will delight your taste buds. In this post, I’ll share all the ingredients you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, and handy tips to make your French toast perfect every time. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast
To create a delicious Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast, gather these main ingredients:
- 4 slices of thick brioche or challah bread
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons chocolate hazelnut spread (like Nutella)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking)
- Fresh hazelnuts, crushed (for topping)
- Fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Each ingredient plays a vital role. The bread gives a rich base, while the eggs and milk create a creamy custard. The chocolate hazelnut spread adds sweetness and flavor. Vanilla and cinnamon enhance the dish, making each bite heavenly.
Tips for Choosing Bread
When selecting bread for your French toast, thick slices work best. Brioche and challah are perfect due to their soft texture. They soak up the custard well without falling apart. Look for bread that feels fresh and springy. Avoid stale or dry bread, as it won’t absorb the mixture nicely. If you want a unique twist, try sourdough or whole grain bread for added flavor.
Suggestions for Dairy Alternatives
If you prefer dairy-free options, there are great substitutes. Almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk can replace regular milk. They offer a creamy texture and complement the chocolate flavor. For vegan options, use a flax egg instead of regular eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water, then let it sit for five minutes. This will help bind your mixture without using eggs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Egg Mixture
First, grab a shallow dish. You will mix the eggs and milk here. Crack 2 large eggs into the dish. Add ½ cup of milk, either dairy or non-dairy. Then, add 2 tablespoons of chocolate hazelnut spread. I love using Nutella for its rich flavor. Next, pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk everything together until smooth. Make sure the chocolate hazelnut spread blends in well. This mixture will coat the bread perfectly.
Cooking the French Toast
Now, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Let the butter melt and coat the bottom. Dip each slice of brioche bread in the egg mixture. Soak each side for about 15-20 seconds. Be gentle to keep the bread intact. Place the soaked slices onto the skillet. Cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and a slight crisp. Repeat this step for all slices. If needed, add more butter as you cook.
Plating and Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, transfer the French toast to plates. For a lovely touch, sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top. Add sliced fresh strawberries for a pop of color. Finally, dust the toast with powdered sugar. This makes it look even more delightful. Serve warm. If you like, add more chocolate hazelnut spread on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite of this delicious breakfast.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To make the best Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast, focus on the bread. Use thick slices of brioche or challah. These types soak up the egg mixture well. Soak each slice for 15-20 seconds on each side. Don’t let them get too soggy, or they will fall apart. Cooking on medium heat gives a nice golden color. A non-stick skillet helps prevent sticking and makes flipping easier.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not whisking the egg mixture enough. Mix well to incorporate the chocolate hazelnut spread completely. If you skip this step, your French toast may have dry spots. Another mistake is cooking at too high a heat. This can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw. Always check your heat and adjust as needed.
Enhancing Flavor with Extra Ingredients
You can boost the flavor of your French toast with a few extras. Try adding a pinch of salt to the egg mixture. This enhances the sweetness of the chocolate hazelnut spread. You can also mix in a bit of orange zest for a refreshing twist. Fresh berries add a juicy burst when you bite in. For a crunchy topping, sprinkle crushed hazelnuts on top. These small changes can make a big difference in taste.
Variations
Nut-Free Options
If you want a nut-free version of Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast, you can swap the chocolate hazelnut spread. Use a chocolate spread made from cocoa and sugar without nuts. You can also try sunflower seed butter. It gives a creamy texture and nutty flavor without using nuts. Just make sure to check labels for any hidden nut ingredients.
Toppings to Try
Toppings can make your French toast even better. Here are some ideas:
- Sliced bananas for a fruity taste.
- A drizzle of maple syrup for sweetness.
- Whipped cream for a fluffy touch.
- A sprinkle of coconut flakes for crunch.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist.
You can mix and match these toppings to create your perfect dish. Get creative and have fun with it!
Gluten-Free Alternatives
For a gluten-free option, choose gluten-free bread. Many stores sell gluten-free bread made from rice or almond flour. You can also make your own at home. Just follow the same recipe steps, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free treat. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free too, especially the chocolate spread. Enjoy your French toast without worry!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover French Toast
To store leftover French toast, place it in an airtight container. Let it cool first. Make sure to separate each slice with parchment paper. This prevents sticking. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Tips
When reheating French toast, use a skillet or toaster oven. Heat it on medium-low. This keeps it warm and crispy. Avoid using a microwave since it makes the texture soggy. Cook each side for about two minutes until warm. You can add a bit of butter for extra flavor.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze French toast, wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. Press out as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy your Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast again with ease!
FAQs
What can I substitute for chocolate hazelnut spread?
You can use almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter. Each option adds its own flavor. If you want a sweet touch, try adding a bit of honey or maple syrup. For a chocolate flavor, use cocoa powder mixed with nut butter. This way, you can still enjoy a tasty breakfast.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture in advance. Store it in the fridge overnight. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for a bit before cooking. You can also cook the French toast and heat it later. Reheat in a toaster or skillet for a quick meal.
How do I make Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast vegan?
To make this dish vegan, use plant-based milk and a flax egg. To create a flax egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. Substitute the chocolate hazelnut spread with a vegan option or a nut butter mixed with cocoa powder. This way, you still enjoy a rich flavor.
This blog post covered how to make delicious Chocolate Hazelnut French Toast. We looked at key ingredients, tips for bread selection, and dairy alternatives. I shared step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, and clever tricks to enhance texture and flavor. We also explored variations, like nut-free and gluten-free options, along with smart storage ideas.
Remember, this dish offers room to get creative. Enjoy experimenting and make it your own! Each bite promises a sweet reward.
