If you want a breakfast that feels both indulgent and refreshing, Chocolate Orange French Toast is the answer. This recipe marries creamy, rich chocolate with zesty, bright orange flavors, all soaked into tender brioche for a dish that’s truly something special. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a celebratory morning, it’s the kind of meal guaranteed to make both chocolate lovers and citrus fans swoon. Every bite delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures—and yes, you’ll want to go back for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Chocolate Orange French Toast lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has a purpose, lending just the right flavor, texture, or touch of color to create a breakfast that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
- 4 large eggs: The foundation for a custardy, rich soak—fresh eggs make a difference!
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps blend flavors smoothly; whole milk brings a fuller taste.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest: Provides fragrant, zippy citrus notes that dance against the chocolate.
- 2 tablespoons orange juice: Adds a pop of fresh brightness while amplifying the zest’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweetness and gives extra warmth to the custard.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Just enough to gently sweeten the custard without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and makes all the flavors pop.
- 8 slices brioche or challah bread: Soft, eggy bread like brioche or challah soaks up the custard beautifully without falling apart.
- 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melts into the warm toast for pools of chocolate throughout every slice.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for cooking): Helps the toast get that perfect golden crispness outside while staying tender inside.
- Powdered sugar and extra orange zest for garnish: Adds elegance, extra zing, and that “wow” factor for serving.
- Maple syrup or chocolate sauce for serving: Choose your favorite topping for extra decadence.
How to Make Chocolate Orange French Toast
Step 1: Make the Orange Custard
Start by whisking together the eggs, milk, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Be sure to whisk thoroughly—the more evenly everything is combined, the better your bread will soak up all those lovely flavors. The scent of the orange zest and vanilla will make your kitchen smell incredible already!
Step 2: Heat Your Skillet
While your custard is ready, place a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a touch of unsalted butter and let it melt, creating a lush nonstick surface that promises a golden, crisp finish on each slice of bread.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of brioche or challah into the orange custard. Let it soak for a few seconds on each side so it absorbs enough liquid for a rich, tender texture—but not so long that it falls apart. Allow the excess to drip off before cooking.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Lay the custard-soaked slices straight onto your hot skillet. Cook in batches so you don’t crowd the pan—leave room for that gorgeous browning! Each slice should take about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You’re looking for a golden, lightly crisp exterior and a pillowy middle.
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Chips
While the French toast is still warm, sprinkle semi-sweet chocolate chips on top of each slice. The heat will soften them just enough to become delicious, melty pockets of chocolate without losing their shape entirely. It’s pure bliss in every bite!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Arrange your Chocolate Orange French Toast on plates, then dust generously with powdered sugar and shower with a bit of extra orange zest. Drizzle with maple syrup or chocolate sauce right before serving to finish it off in style.
How to Serve Chocolate Orange French Toast
Garnishes
Garnishing is where your breakfast can really shine. A flourish of powdered sugar instantly elevates the look, while extra orange zest brings both visual brightness and a zesty scent. For an added treat, add a few curls of dark chocolate or a dollop of lightly whipped cream.
Side Dishes
You can round out your Chocolate Orange French Toast with fresh berries, sliced oranges, or a crisp fruit salad. For a heartier brunch, serve it alongside crispy bacon, sausage links, or even Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping brunch platter, stack the toast in overlapping layers, sprinkle with plenty of chocolate chips and zest, and serve with tiny individual pitchers of chocolate sauce. Or cut the French toast slices into strips for dipping—perfect for kids or an interactive brunch spread!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Chocolate Orange French Toast, let it cool completely before storing. Layer slices in an airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For meal prep magic, Chocolate Orange French Toast freezes beautifully! Once cooled, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep fresh for up to one month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, pop slices in the toaster or warm them gently in a skillet over low heat. For larger batches, use a 350°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. The toast will come out hot, slightly crispy, and ready for an encore performance at your breakfast table!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast
Absolutely! While brioche or challah are ideal, you can substitute with thick Texas toast, sourdough, or even a hearty sandwich bread. Just make sure it’s a bit stale for best results and to prevent sogginess.
Can I make Chocolate Orange French Toast dairy free?
You sure can! Use your favorite plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, and swap the butter for a vegan alternative. The rest of the recipe remains the same, and the flavor will still be fabulous.
What other toppings go well with this French toast?
Fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, or a scoop of mascarpone are all excellent additions. For extra crunch, sprinkle on toasted almonds or chopped pecans just before serving.
Can I prep the custard mixture the night before?
Yes! Simply whisk together the eggs, milk, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla, sugar, and salt, then refrigerate overnight. Give it a good stir in the morning before dipping your bread.
Is Chocolate Orange French Toast suitable for special occasions?
Definitely—this recipe is a standout for birthdays, holidays, or whenever you want to turn breakfast into a festive affair. The vibrant flavors and luxurious texture make it feel like a treat every single time!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both wonderfully comforting and delightfully different, give Chocolate Orange French Toast a try. It’s an easy way to bring a little extra sunshine and decadence to your morning—and it just might become your new favorite!
Print
Chocolate Orange French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a decadent breakfast treat with this Chocolate Orange French Toast recipe. The combination of citrusy orange zest, rich chocolate, and sweet maple syrup makes this dish a delightful morning indulgence.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture:
4 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1 tablespoon orange zest, 2 tablespoons orange juice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt
French Toast:
8 slices brioche or challah bread, 1/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for cooking)
Garnish and Serving:
powdered sugar and extra orange zest for garnish, maple syrup or chocolate sauce for serving
Instructions
- Mix the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, sugar, and salt.
- Cook French Toast: Heat skillet, dip bread in egg mixture, cook each slice until golden brown on both sides.
- Add Chocolate: Sprinkle warm toast with chocolate chips to soften.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar, orange zest, and syrup or sauce.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute half-and-half for milk.
- Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense cocoa taste.
- Day-old bread works best to avoid sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
