Description
This decadent Cannoli Baked French Toast combines the creamy richness of ricotta and mascarpone cheeses with the sweet crunch of mini chocolate chips, layered within tender brioche bread and baked to golden perfection. Ideal as a make-ahead breakfast or brunch treat, it offers a delightful twist on classic French toast inspired by traditional Italian cannoli flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Mixture
- 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
Brioche Layers
- 1 loaf sliced brioche bread
Cannoli Filling
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Toppings
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup whole milk, 4 large eggs, 1/4 cup ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth.
- Make Cannoli Filling: In a second bowl, combine 8 ounces mascarpone cheese, 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the filling is smooth, creamy, and well blended.
- Assemble Bread Layers: Take one slice of brioche bread and spread about 2 tablespoons of the cannoli filling evenly on top. Place another slice of brioche on top of the filling, creating a sandwich. Cut this sandwich into four equal pieces. Arrange the pieces with the cannoli filling side facing up in a buttered baking dish. Repeat this process until all bread slices are used and arranged in the dish.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the layered bread pieces, ensuring all surfaces are covered. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight to allow the custard to fully soak into the bread, enhancing its flavor and texture.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the French Toast: Remove the cover from the baking dish and sprinkle 1 cup of mini chocolate chips evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the French toast is golden brown on top and cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: Once baked, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Dust the top generously with powdered sugar before serving to add a sweet and decorative touch. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old brioche bread to prevent sogginess and improve texture.
- Overnight soaking is crucial to allow the custard to infuse the bread, making it tender and flavorful.
- You can substitute mini chocolate chips with your favorite chocolate or nuts according to taste.
- Use a buttered baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- This recipe can be prepared a day ahead, making it perfect for special occasion breakfasts or brunches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: cannoli baked french toast, baked french toast recipe, ricotta french toast, mascarpone breakfast, Italian breakfast recipe, sweet baked toast
