Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe

Everything you love about sweet cannolis is captured in the convenience of a baked french toast recipe. The Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe is a delightful breakfast that you will look forward to enjoying on special occasions or cozy weekends. With creamy ricotta and mascarpone filling, plus a hint of vanilla, this dish brings a unique twist to traditional french toast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal active cooking time, allowing you to enjoy your morning without stress.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it the night before and let it soak overnight—perfect for busy mornings.
• Decadent Flavor: Rich mascarpone and chocolate chips create a heavenly taste that resembles your favorite cannoli.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet breakfast treat, making it a hit at brunch gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather some essential tools before getting started. These items will help ensure your Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; having multiple sizes can help with organization.
• Whisk: Perfect for evenly blending eggs and dairy, ensuring a smooth custard mixture.
• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and easy serving for your delicious french toast.

Ingredients

For this delightful Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Custard

• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling

• 1 loaf sliced brioche bread
• 1 cup mini chocolate chips
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 2: Make the Cannoli Filling

In a separate bowl, add all ingredients for the cannoli filling:
* Mix together mascarpone cheese, whole milk ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the French Toast

Take one slice of brioche bread and spread approximately 2 tablespoons of the cannoli mixture on it. Place another slice of brioche on top. Cut into four pieces. Arrange these pieces facing up in a buttered baking dish. Repeat this process until all slices are used.

Step 4: Soak Overnight

Pour the custard mixture over the assembled bread slices. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight to allow maximum flavor absorption.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 6: Bake and Serve

Remove cover from the baking dish. Top with mini chocolate chips for added sweetness. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with powdered sugar before serving!

Enjoy your delicious Cannoli Baked French Toast as an indulgent breakfast or a sweet brunch centerpiece!

How to Serve Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe

Serving Cannoli Baked French Toast is all about enhancing its sweet, creamy flavors. This delightful dish can be enjoyed in various ways that make every bite a treat.

With Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Add a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of freshness.
• Banana Slices: Topping with banana slices adds a sweet and creamy element.

Drizzled with Syrup

• Maple Syrup: A classic choice that complements the sweetness of the cannoli filling beautifully.
• Chocolate Sauce: For those who love chocolate, a drizzle elevates the dessert-like quality.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy texture that balances the richness of the dish.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Experiment with vanilla or almond extract for an extra flavor twist.

Sprinkled with Nuts

• Chopped Pistachios: Adds a lovely crunch and pairs well with the cannoli flavors.
• Walnuts or Pecans: Offers a different nutty taste that enhances the overall experience.

How to Perfect Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe

To make your Cannoli Baked French Toast even more delicious, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale brioche absorbs the custard better, resulting in a creamier texture.
• Soak Overnight: Allowing the bread to soak overnight lets all the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the custard and adjust sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Experiment with Fillings: Try adding different mix-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruits for variety.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Ensure it’s golden brown but not overcooked to maintain creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Cannoli Baked French Toast can enhance your breakfast spread. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the french toast.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits offers a healthy contrast.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein to round out your meal.
4. Breakfast Sausages: Chicken or turkey sausages provide savory flavors that complement sweetness well.
5. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns offer a satisfying crunch alongside this soft dish.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A cold smoothie bowl loaded with toppings adds refreshing elements to your breakfast table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can help you create the perfect Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe. Here are a few mistakes to watch for:

• Overmixing the custard: Mixing too vigorously can create a frothy texture. Gently whisk until just combined for a smooth custard.
• Skipping the overnight soak: Not allowing the bread to soak overnight can result in a dry bake. Refrigerate the assembled dish overnight to ensure every slice absorbs flavor.
• Using stale bread: Fresh bread is key for texture and taste. Use slightly day-old brioche for the best results.
• Neglecting the toppings: Skipping mini chocolate chips or powdered sugar can diminish the dessert-like quality. Don’t forget to garnish for added sweetness and visual appeal.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at too high or low a temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven properly for even baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe

• Freeze portions in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking every 15 seconds until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe?

Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe combines traditional cannoli flavors with the comforting texture of baked French toast, making it a delightful breakfast option.

How do I make Cannoli filling?

To make the filling, simply mix together mascarpone cheese, ricotta cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Can I customize my Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different toppings like fresh berries, nuts, or even swap out chocolate chips for butterscotch chips.

How long does it take to prepare Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe?

The preparation time is roughly 15 minutes, but remember to refrigerate it overnight for optimal flavor infusion.

Final Thoughts

The Cannoli Baked French Toast Recipe beautifully marries rich flavors with convenience. It’s versatile enough to enjoy as breakfast or brunch, and you can easily customize it with your favorite toppings or flavors. Give this delightful dish a try; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!