Pin Chocolate Peanut Butter French Toast is my answer to chilly weekend mornings when something cozy and decadent is in order. Thick slices of buttery brioche cradle ribbons of creamy peanut butter and molten chocolate hazelnut spread for a brunch dish that feels like a hug on a plate. Every gooey bite is pure comfort, and the best part is it comes together in just 25 minutes.
I first created this for a birthday breakfast when my oldest was craving something chocolatey and it has become our go-to for every celebration since.
Ingredients
- Brioche or challah bread: provides a tender rich base and holds the filling without falling apart always choose thick sliced bread with a soft crumb for best texture
- Creamy peanut butter: adds a nutty layer and melts beautifully pick a no-stir variety for ease of spreading
- Chocolate hazelnut spread: offers chocolate richness and a hint of nutty sweetness Nutella or any similar spread works well make sure it is smooth and easy to spread
- Eggs: give structure and custardy richness to the soak use large eggs for most consistent results
- Whole milk: creates a creamy egg mixture for the perfect French toast custard full-fat milk brings the right richness
- Granulated sugar: adds a touch of sweetness to balance the salt and spice use fresh sugar not clumped or hard
- Vanilla extract: enhances all the flavors choose pure vanilla for a richer taste
- Ground cinnamon: infuses warmth and subtle spice pick freshly ground cinnamon for optimal aroma
- Salt: is just enough to heighten flavors and balance the sweetness opt for fine sea salt or table salt
- Unsalted butter: is key for golden crisp edges and a luscious taste choose high-quality butter for best browning
- Powdered sugar: for a classic, bakery-style finish dust lightly just before serving
- Fresh berries and maple syrup or chocolate sauce: are optional but bring freshness and extra indulgence pick ripe berries and pure maple syrup for the finest results
Instructions
- Make the Filling Sandwiches:
- Take four slices of bread and generously spread creamy peanut butter edge to edge on each slice. Next, evenly cover the remaining four slices with chocolate hazelnut spread. Gently pair a peanut butter slice with a chocolate spread slice to create four thick sandwiches, making sure the layers align for even, gooey filling in every bite.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a wide shallow bowl, crack three large eggs and add whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Whisk steadily and thoroughly for about one minute—do not rush this step as a well-combined custard ensures your bread soaks up flavor evenly and cooks up perfectly tender.
- Preheat and Butter the Pan:
- Set a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and let it warm up for one to two minutes. Add a tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan, swirling until it melts and evenly coats the surface. This will help your French toast brown beautifully and prevent sticking.
- Soak the Sandwiches:
- One at a time, submerge each sandwich in the egg mixture. Hold it under very gently for a few seconds on each side until fully coated but not soggy. Lift out and let any excess drip away. The bread should feel heavy with custard but still keep its shape.
- Cook the Toast:
- Place the soaked sandwiches in the prepared skillet. Let them cook undisturbed for about three to four minutes per side. Use a thin spatula to carefully flip—the secret is patience here. Each sandwich should be deeply golden and crisp on the outside while hot and gooey in the middle. Add the second tablespoon of butter between batches for consistent browning.
- Finish and Serve:
- Transfer hot French toast to plates. Dust lightly with powdered sugar, then top with fresh berries and drizzle on maple syrup or chocolate sauce if desired. Serve immediately so the filling stays molten and the toast keeps its crisp edge.
Pin Storage Tips
Chocolate Peanut Butter French Toast is best enjoyed fresh but you can keep leftovers in the fridge for one to two days. Reheat in a toaster oven or skillet to regain the crisp edges and gooey inside microwaving works in a pinch but can leave the bread soft. For longer storage flash freeze slices on a baking tray before moving to a freezer-safe bag then reheat from frozen for last-minute brunch cravings.
Ingredient Substitutions
No peanut butter in the house you can easily swap for almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you are avoiding nuts altogether. If you prefer a slightly less sweet option try using dark chocolate spread or even raspberry jam paired with cream cheese for a new twist. Any sturdy sandwich bread will work if brioche or challah is not available though nothing beats that subtle sweetness and richness they offer.
Serving Suggestions
This French toast is decadent on its own but it shines with mixed berries or sliced bananas for a fresh counterpoint. For an extra treat top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a gentle drizzle of chocolate sauce. Pair with strong coffee or a frothy latte for the ultimate breakfast indulgence.
Cultural and Seasonal Adaptations
French toast is a classic American comfort food inspired by pain perdu meaning lost bread from France Chocolate and peanut butter is a beloved combination in American cuisine often highlighted in desserts and snacks In cooler months try warming spices such as cardamom or nutmeg in the custard while in summer fresh strawberries or blueberries make each bite taste like sunshine
Success Stories
My youngest was once skeptical at first try but after one bite asked if we could make it every Saturday since then it is a firm family favorite and the smell alone brings everyone running to the kitchen. Friends have tried this recipe for brunch parties and rave about how easy and impressive it is. It is a dish that truly brings smiles to both kids and grown ups alike.
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can turn this recipe into a freezer friendly breakfast by fully assembling and cooking the French toast then cooling completely. Wrap slices individually in foil and freeze for up to three weeks. To reheat bake at 350 degrees for ten to twelve minutes straight from the freezer or pop in the toaster for easy single servings. This is a lifesaver on busy mornings just add syrup.
Pin Serve immediately so the filling stays molten and the toast keeps its crisp edge. This decadent dish paired with fresh berries and a good cup of coffee makes for a perfect weekend brunch.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, thick-sliced brioche or challah works best, but you can use white or whole wheat bread for a similar texture.
- → How do I make this nut-free?
Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and choose a nut-free chocolate spread to avoid nuts.
- → What toppings go well with this toast?
Popular choices include powdered sugar, fresh berries, maple syrup, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
- → Can I add fruit inside the sandwich?
Yes, sliced bananas are delicious layered between the spreads before dipping and cooking.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead?
It's best cooked fresh, but you can assemble the sandwiches ahead and dip just before cooking.
- → How do I prevent the sandwiches from getting soggy?
Dip each sandwich quickly in the egg mixture, ensuring it's coated but not soaked through.